Description
Evaporator temperature sensor for Citroën and Peugeot vehicles
This evaporator temperature sensor (OE code 6445KP) is designed for climate control systems in many Citroën and Peugeot models. It supplies the air‑conditioning control unit with precise evaporator temperature data to prevent evaporator freeze, optimize compressor cycling and maintain stable cabin comfort. Ideal for professional workshops and DIY mechanics, the sensor is a direct-fit electrical component for Stellantis vehicles and is often searched by its part number 6445KP.
Technical Information
- Manufacturer: Stellantis / Citroén / Peugeot
- Model: Citroën Berlingo B9; Citroën Berlingo III; Citroen C‑Elysée; Citroën C4 Picasso; Citroën C8; Peugeot 301; Peugeot 807; Peugeot Partner III; Peugeot Partner Tepee
- Product Codes: 6445KP
- Additional Numbers: Alternate formatting may appear as 6445.KP or similar OE listings
Function And Benefits
The sensor is typically an NTC thermistor or equivalent temperature element mounted in the evaporator housing or air stream of the HVAC unit. It monitors the evaporator surface temperature so the climate control can:
- Prevent evaporator icing by limiting compressor operation
- Improve automatic temperature regulation and passenger comfort
- Reduce unnecessary compressor cycling and wear
These benefits lead to more reliable air‑conditioning performance and more consistent cabin temperatures.
Installation Recommendations
Replacement is straightforward for experienced technicians. Typical steps:
- Disconnect vehicle negative battery terminal before working on electrical connectors.
- Access the sensor via the glovebox, lower dashboard or dedicated HVAC service port depending on model; removal of trim or glovebox may be required.
- Unplug the electrical connector, release the retaining clip or grommet, and withdraw the sensor from the evaporator housing.
- Install the new sensor in the same orientation, secure the clip/grommet and reconnect the plug. Use a small amount of dielectric grease on terminals if available to reduce corrosion risk.
- Restore battery power and run the climate system to verify correct operation and that the compressor cycles normally.
In most vehicle layouts the sensor is mounted on the air side of the HVAC unit and can be replaced without discharging the refrigerant system, but access steps vary by model and may require partial dashboard removal.
Why This Part Fails
There is no fixed replacement interval for evaporator temperature sensors. Failures most commonly result from:
- Moisture Ingress And Connector Corrosion — electrical contacts degrade over time.
- Physical Damage — during repairs or from vibration and thermal cycling the sensor or its wiring can break.
- Foam Or Housing Degradation — deteriorated seals or mounting foam can shift the sensor or expose it to condensation.
- Electrical Faults — intermittent signals caused by wiring harness damage or poor grounding lead to incorrect temperature readings and improper A/C cycling.
Symptoms of a failing sensor include erratic blower/compressor cycling, poor cooling, evaporator icing, or HVAC fault codes stored in the climate control module.
Replacement with a correct OE‑matched sensor such as 6445KP restores reliable evaporator monitoring and helps the air‑conditioning system operate efficiently. Check the vehicle model and production year against the listed applications before ordering to ensure fitment.
