AutosHidden role of dashboard sensors in climate control

Hidden role of dashboard sensors in climate control

Modern cars often come with features that we might not fully understand, such as the plastic spherical detail on the dashboard. However, it turns out that this feature plays an essential role.

Contrary to appearances, he didn't end up there by accident.
Contrary to appearances, he didn't end up there by accident.
Images source: © Photo by Mariusz Zmysłowski
Filip Buliński

The complexity of vehicles is constantly increasing. Manufacturers are striving to outdo the competition with new innovations, and now many features that used to be rare are available even in compact city cars. This can lead to questions like, "What is this for?"

These thoughts might arise when we notice a protruding, often spherical, plastic piece on top of the dashboard, near the windshield. Some drivers might think it's a type of clip intended to keep dashboard elements in place. Not so.

This feature is typical for cars equipped with automatic climate control, especially if it's dual-zone—there may be more of these sensors. These are sunlight sensors.

Their function is to assess the intensity of sunlight, which allows the air conditioning system to select the appropriate mode of operation. For example, on a hot day, if we enter the heated interior and set the air conditioning to 20 degrees Celsius, the system tries to cool the cabin quickly.

If the same temperature is set on overcast days, the sensors will inform the computer of the decreased sunlight, allowing for an adjustment in the air conditioning operation. It's worth noting that these sensors should not be covered, as this could affect their efficiency.

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