Skip to content
View in the app

A better way to browse. Learn more.
Ford Owners Club - Ford Forums

A full-screen app on your home screen with push notifications, badges and more.

To install this app on iOS and iPadOS
  1. Tap the Share icon in Safari
  2. Scroll the menu and tap Add to Home Screen.
  3. Tap Add in the top-right corner.
To install this app on Android
  1. Tap the 3-dot menu (⋮) in the top-right corner of the browser.
  2. Tap Add to Home screen or Install app.
  3. Confirm by tapping Install.



Join the Independent Ford Owners' Club

Our community has been built by enthusiasts, for enthusiasts, and proudly run by Ford owners' for over 18 years. As an independent, non-official club, everything you’ll find here, advice, support, and opinions, comes directly from members with genuine Ford ownership experience.

Join our friendly community... it's Free!

 

What Are These Sensors On The Windscreen?

mike6688
mike6688
in Ford Focus Club

Featured Replies

Hi on my mk3 focus I have two little black boxes on the windscreen, which have wires running into the roof lining. It's a zetec so doesn't have auto lights / wipers - but I haven't seen these on similar models. Are they anything to do with the radio lights coming on when dark and off during the day? Only I thought the dome by the windscreen (between the vents) was what controlled this. Can't see anything on Ford Etis.

post-62285-0-41692700-1423845528_thumb.j

post-62285-0-44365600-1423845575_thumb.j

  • Quote


    They are the heated windscreen connectors

  • Quote

    They put them in the roof now strange design

  • Quote

    They are the earth connectors for each side of windscreen, live feeds are at bottom corners of screen.

  • Quote
    • Author

    Thank you for the replies. Seemed a bit odd they would be there, but glad to know what they are now.

  • Quote

    post-59356-0-11039600-1423855721_thumb.jpost-59356-0-78344800-1423855739_thumb.j

  • Quote

    Hi on my mk3 focus I have two little black boxes on the windscreen, which have wires running into the roof lining. It's a zetec so doesn't have auto lights / wipers - but I haven't seen these on similar models. Are they anything to do with the radio lights coming on when dark and off during the day? Only I thought the dome by the windscreen (between the vents) was what controlled this. Can't see anything on Ford Etis.

    They're trackers for Google, so they can monitor where you go, how fast you drive etc

    :ph34r:

  • Quote
    • Like 2
    • Author

    They're trackers for Google, so they can monitor where you go, how fast you drive etc

    :ph34r:

    That explains why I keep seeing the google car everywhere I go!

  • Quote
    • 2 years later...

    So that's how my Google knows when to colour the road on maps red or green.  I saw these the other day on my own car and thought it might have been a light or rain sensor but I guess not.

  • Quote

    The dome at the base of the windscreen between the vents is the sunlight sensor for the auto climate control. It measures the strength of the sun and the CC will adjust the fan speed and air direction accordingly whilst also taking into consideration the temp you have set.  Many people do not know what the dome is for, someone said to me recently they thought it was a compass for the sat nav.

  • Quote
    • Like 3
    12 hours ago, Trewithy said:

    ...someone said to me recently they thought it was a compass for the sat nav

    Love it!!

  • Quote

    • Latest Deals

    Ford UK Shop for genuine Ford parts & accessories

    Disclaimer: As the club is an eBay Partner, The club may be compensated if you make a purchase via the club

    Join the conversation

    You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.

    Guest
    Reply to this topic...
    Go to topic listing

    The "Digestive"

    • The Digestive Forum Roundup (31st May - 7th June 2026)

      Steve ·
      The Digestive Forum Roundup (31st May - 7th June 2026) We hope you’re all enjoying your week and finding time for some time enjoying your Ford! This week, our vibrant forum has been buzzing with discussions that touch on a diverse range of Ford models, from the Mondeo to the Fiesta and Focus. Here’s a recap of some key conversations that might pique your interest. Starting with the Mondeo, user Frenchspanner shared a particularly frustrating issue relating to a 'Immobiliser Active' message appea
      Steve
      Steve
      • 150 views





    Background Picker
    Customize Layout

    Account

    Navigation

    Search

    Search

    Configure browser push notifications
    Chrome (Android)
    1. Tap the lock icon next to the address bar.
    2. Tap Permissions → Notifications.
    3. Adjust your preference.
    Chrome (Desktop)
    1. Click the padlock icon in the address bar.
    2. Select Site settings.
    3. Find Notifications and adjust your preference.