What does the sensor on the dash do?

[sojusoulja]

Most of you know there is a sensor looking thing on the front dash next to the windshield. I was wondering if it does anything?

I thought it was for auto lights but I don't think my 96 has that and my second guess was that it was for the keyless entry but that doesn't seem to be it.

 

[GOTTSPD]

It's the temp. sensor for the auto. climate control.

 

[sojusoulja]

ah...thanks

 

[Daedalus]

Close. It's a sunlight sensor to give the CCU an idea of how strong the sunlight is that's heating up the interior. It's a kind of photovoltaic cell.

 

[KooLaid]

And that in turn???? I guess compares it to the temp being pulled in by that little fan by the e-brake and makes changes accordingly?

 

[Daedalus]

Not really compare the 2, but use them both as inputs, in addition to others, such as ambient sensor, evap temp sensor and coolant temp sensor. Just like the ECU, there is rudimentary logic in the CCU that adjusts the outputs (fans, air mix in this case) based on the inputs.

If you're in the sun with the AC at a certain setting, and then drive into a dark shady area, you'll probably notice the fans kick down some.