The instrument cluster determines the current outside temperature using the outside temperature sensor (NTC resistor). The outside temperature sensor is connected by means of its own ground (analog ground) and a sensor line (analog positive) to the instrument cluster electronics (IKE ). The outside temperature is not displayed in the multi-information display (MID), but rather permanently in the instrument cluster. If the outside temperature drops below +3oC while the car is being driven, dependent on the coding, the gong warning 2 (T2) is triggered and the displayed value flashes. The display unit (oC/o F) is specified in the coding data.

The display change is delayed since heat from the engine and other ambient conditions influence the outside temperature display.

The "outside temperature" information is placed by the instrument cluster electronics (IKE) on the instrumentation bus (I-bus) and body bus (K-bus). In ignition lock position "0", the outside temperature sensor is read by the IKE at time intervals which are within the minute range. For this purpose, the IKE is temporarily activated, provides the information and then switches itself off again.