Question about the Dash Display

Tried to upload a picture but it won't seem to take so I'll just ask anyway. Can someone please tell me what's the little display of what looks like a snow flake under the MPG meter on the dash display? It looks like it must be some kind of traction notice or something. Also, should it be on all the time? I've noticed it NOT on every once in awhile but it's mostly always illuminated. 2018 4Runner Premium. Thanks in advance.

 

Here it is What's this????

 

It comes on when temps are around freezing to alert you to possible slippery conditions.

I guess they figure if it's really cold and snowy, you'll already know it might be slippery. If it's above freezing but approaching freezing you might not be aware that it could get slippery- so the display lets you know.

 

Awesome thanks 4runningman today was about middle/higher 40s I'd guess when I noticed it so that would make sense.

 

I'm curious to know what sets it off. Its 36 here now and no snowflake.

 

I've wondered as well. I mean, I know there's some truth to my above explanation, but I haven't been able to discern the consistent pattern.

 

Middle to upper 40's sounds a bit odd for the symbol to flash. Mine turned on in the mid 30's last week.

 

Yeah I'll have to keep an eye on mine if it's a freezing sensor I've noticed it on in some pretty warm temperature. I don't drive the 4Runner everyday I'll have to go for a ride when it's 50 or so and see if it goes out. If it doesn't I'll tell them at my 5,000 checkup.

 

"In the following situations, the correct outside temperature may not be displayed, or the display may take longer than normal to change:
●When the vehicle is stopped, or moving at low speeds (less than 14 mph [24 km/h])
●When the outside temperature has changed suddenly (at the entrance/ exit of a garage, tunnel, etc.)"

That's a quote from the owners manual. I'm sure the temp only updates a few times a minute so some inaccuracy can present itself. Also ice and snow build up can mess with it.

After a little more research I found the symbol displays at 37 degrees or colder and should go off at 39 degrees. But again it's not the most accurate instrument. It's just a guide on the outside conditions and possibility of icy conditions.

 

I've been noticing my temp reads the exact same temp as the temp on the bank sign on my daily commute. You'd think it'd be off by a degree here and there. But like 9 outta 10 days it's right on! Crazy.

 

Six inches of snow last night in New England and raining now no display on this morning must be warm enough go figure!!

 

mine kicks on at about 39 degrees

 

It's actually your 4Runner telling you it's time to plunder and seek booty. That's a pirate's steering wheel. Yarrrrrr!

 

Haha. For sure.