Do the Toyota logos in the center of the wheels provide any function?

I did a 500 mile drive to deadhorse, AK and the road was extremely rough. Huge potholes, I'm glad I didn't pop a tire or break a rim, im pretty happy with the TRD Suspension and aftermarket airbags. When I arrived I noticed one of the Toyota logos popped off the rear wheel.

Do these provide any function or dust protection? If they're just decorative, oh well, maybe I'll notice it on the way back, but it's probably been crushed by a truck.

 

They are a decorative dust cap, but you can probably survive without them...

 

I lost one and purchased another used one on EBay.

 

Some run without

 

As already mentioned, those are decorative dust caps. I've heard the road up to Deadhorse can be a crazy ride. I've been to Deadhorse. I got there much easier. Flew into Kuparik on a BP/CP consolidated services flight from Anchorage. Spent a few days at Milne Point for an assignment. When done, we drove east to Deadhorse and I caught a hop back to Anchorage. Quite the place!

 

Thanks all, glad to know I don't have to worry about the fine dust getting in, but it's Going to snow on my way back, so that will be fun.

It is a 11hr drive from fairbanks, I did it all in one shot. It's the most beautiful place on earth. Never got bored for even a minute. I'm a little nervous driving back in the snow however

 

It's like being on another planet. Can't describe in words. Ha!

 

I remove the center caps for tire storage (winter/summer). I was actually surprised how easy they come out. Was expecting to have to compress some type of clip. They just pop out.

 

Yeah I'm totally disappointed, I noticed another about to pop and when I hit it it just felt like a light pressure fit.
I'm definitely getting cop car wheels eventually, these vehicles are getting more expensive every year and cheaper...already lost the front bumper fairing made of brittle plastic. At least it looks better without that stupid chin and mustache