What is this thing next to the rear view mirror on my 21 4runner nightshade?

I don’t think this is a dashcam but it DOES look a lot like other oem cams I’ve seen installed.

Just want to make sure before I install a different one and clutter up my windshield.

If image doesn’t post: https://imgur.com/a/QiRsntG

I could be wrong but I think this is the ambient light sensor for the autodim mirror.

Interesting. Perhaps. Does it use a different light sensor than the one on the dash that operates the dash display and the headlights?

It is a camera for the TSS (Toyota Safety Sense) system.

What 02SE said 👆.

I have a ‘21 Nightshade also and it’s for TSS.

My understanding that this one determines whether or not to dim the rear view mirror which is separate from the others. I had to move my dash cam over when mounting it to keep this sensor open.

As others have said, it is for TSS.

There are always two sensors for auto dimming rear view mirrors: one on the front of the mirror looking forward (senses ambient light) and one looking backwards (to sense headlights behind you). The way they work is if it is dark outside (little ambient light in front) and there are headlights behind, the mirror will dim so the headlights don't blind you. The mirror will not dim if there are no headlights behind so you can see better at night. It takes a few seconds for the mirror to dim. You can test the mirror to see if the dimming function works: place black electrical tape over the front sensor, then shine a flashlight on the rear sensor.

Fun fact: 90% of the auto dimming rear view mirrors in the world are made by a company called Gentex. There should be both a Toyota part number and a Gentex part number molded into the mirror housing.

I knew I had it mixed up! Haha. Thank you for correcting.