Dim panel lights & radio with headlights on "Auto"

When I turn the headlight switch to "off," life is simple. Even the daytime running lights (DRLs) seem to turn off. When I turn the lights to "park" or "on," the panel lights and radio display all go dim. That's expected.

But when I turn the headlight switch to "auto," the DRLs seem to turn on and the panel lights and radio display also dims. That's despite the light level outside, high noon or midnight. That seems odd.

I can't figure out how to restore the panel light or radio brightness to where I can actually see them, especially the radio, during daylight. Is there some setting that I can try? I've tried repeated turning the trip odometer stalk to the right multiple times. That had a little effect.

I like to use DRLs but I also like to use sunglasses.

 

did you read the manual????
turn the odometer knob

 

I did that. It doesn't turn in a circle. It just moves in a little arc. Forcing it seemed unwise.

 

turn it left it dims, right make it brighter

 

I'll try again . . . .

 

Do you have something covering the light sensor maybe?



Also:

 

I have a dashmat on the dashboard. I need to check that. Thanks.