What is this thing on the dash?

[LordJezo]

The lights aren't automatic (at least I don't think they are) so what is this thing on the dash board? The raised dome bit.

 

[Antonio DiMarco]

I believe it's the autolight sensor

The lights aren't automatic (at least I don't think they are) so what is this thing on the dash board? The raised dome bit.

I believe it's what tells the headlamps when to turn on and off.

 

[LordJezo]

I believe it's what tells the headlamps when to turn on and off.

But are they even automatic? My initial thought was it was the light sensor but I always have to turn the lights on and off with the dial on the lever.

 

[ceric]

It is the sensor to track sun position.
The info is used for A/C to determine which vent should have more air comes out, hot or cold.
I don't know if the same sensor is used for headlights or not.

 

[Antonio DiMarco]

There is an automatic setting on the control stalk for the headlights (I have my headlights set to auto on both my CX-9 and Mz6- which BTW also has the dome). But I believe Ceric is probably correct here. I was just guessing.

 

[xarthan]

It is the sensor to track sun position.
The info is used for A/C to determine which vent should have more air comes out, hot or cold.
I don't know if the same sensor is used for headlights or not.

What he said for Auto on Vent

 

[Gunga]

Cover it and see what happens

 

[xarthan]

Cover it and see what happens

dont it might blow up

 

[GT 2011]

It's the Sun Load sensor for the AC and works with the ATC.

 

[shodanusmc]

Yep! The sensor for the lights in behind the rear view mirror......same with the rain sensor.