External Temperature Sensor – XK8 1998

Hi everyone, I suspect that I may be having problems with this, the indicated temperature seems to be about five degrees out and slow to change so looking for a bit of help regarding this Sensor, three things that I’m struggling with.

Eventually found the Sensor behind the split grill on the DRIVERS side, not on the passenger side as t’internet had told me…………. It’s mounted on the same fixing point as the Horn. Only a five minute job to remove and test – six hours later I was losing the will to live. In the end I had to cut the mounting bolt as it was seized solid. However this was far from the end.

So –

Q1. How do you remove the Sensor from the bracket, it seems to slide on to the tongue of the bracket and clips on.  I can’t figure out how to release the clip.

Q2. Same problem with the Connector Plug, can’t see what clips hold this connector on to the body of the Sensor or how to release them.

Q3. This Sensor provides the Ext Temp reading on the Climate Control Panel but does it provide information to a control module for other things such Engine Cooling Fans, Air Con etc ? 

If all it does is provide the Temp Reading then I’m happy that I don’t have to rush into replacement whilst lying on a gravel drive dodging thunderstorms, my old bones are getting too ancient for this lark !

Any help much appreciated,

Nige.