Outdoor Coil Temperature Sensor Error

Home Appliance Error Codes TCL Split AC

Can you still use it? No, unplug it

Who can fix it? Needs a technician

Typical repair time 30 minutes – 2 hours

Typical cost SAR 80 to 2,500

What it means

This code appears on TCL split air conditioners when the outdoor board finds the outdoor coil (condenser) temperature sensor reading missing or out of range, meaning the sensor or its wire is open or shorted. The outdoor unit relies on this reading for condenser overheat protection and heat-mode defrost, so it stops. TCL codes are not the same across all series, so check your unit manual to confirm the meaning. The same code can mean something else on other brands.

Models covered: TCL split air conditioners; codes differ between TCL series, so confirm with the unit manual.

Symptoms3

The outdoor unit is stopped and there is no cooling.
The code shows indoors although the sensor is outside.
It may appear after the outdoor unit was washed.

Possible causes5

Wire or sensor damage from sun heat and dust at the outdoor unit.
Sensor connector not tight on the outdoor board or corroded.
Sensor (thermistor) failed with age or moisture.
Broken wire or damaged insulation.
Faulty sensor input on the outdoor board.

How to diagnose5

Check the unit manual to confirm the code refers to this sensor on your model.
Switch off at the breaker for a few minutes and restart.
The technician inspects the sensor and its connector after switching off and confirming the inverter board is discharged.
The technician measures the sensor resistance and compares it with the TCL table at the current temperature.
The technician tries a known-good sensor before replacing the board.

How to fix5

Refit the sensor in its correct position if it has moved.
Clean the connector and repair the wire.
Replace the sensor with a part matching the model.
Replace the outdoor board if its sensor input is proven faulty.
Run the unit and confirm the code has cleared.

Repair cost

0–200

200–600

600–1,500

1,500+

In Saudi riyals; the highlighted part is the expected range for this fault.

Usually a sensor or connector at low cost; the cost only rises if the outdoor board must be replaced.

Prices are rough estimates including the part and the technician’s fee, and vary with brand, model and part source.
Prices last updated: September 2026

Frequently asked questions

Can I check the outdoor sensor myself?

Not advised. It connects to the outdoor inverter board, which holds a dangerous charge after switch-off.

Does extreme heat damage this sensor?

Heat, sun and dust speed up wear of the wire insulation and connector, so this fault is more common on exposed units.

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This guide is for information only and does not replace an inspection by a qualified technician. If the fault involves brakes, steering, engine temperature, electrics or refrigerant, do not attempt the repair yourself.

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