Dashboard cluster lights

So, suddenly my 2016 is giving me no instrument cluster lights on the Tach or Speedometer unless the headlights or at least fog lights are turned on. The local Toyota dealer is telling me this is the way these dash lights are supposed to work. The problem is that I have been driving this thing since I took delivery back in September of 2015 and these lights have always worked with the headlights turned off. This is the third time this dealer has told me that they cannot or will not fix what is broken. I guess that makes the warranty pretty worthless.

Am I losing my mind here? Is it truly the case that the lights only illuminate the Tach and Speedometer when the headlights are turned on? That sure seems contrary to what I remember.

Thank you,

-TC Harp

 

Um, The dash lights will not work unless the headlights are on.

 

Yes to both of your questions.

 

The dealer showed me the same light situation on another 2016 Tacoma. Greg is correct. My memory must be fading fast.

 

Technically tail lights.

 

Are my dash lights supposed to be on all the time??

 

Auto head lights and dash lights turn off/on with different light levels

 

My old lady's CRV dash lights are on all the time. So, you think the "lights" are on at night and drive most times with no tails. I don't like that, my VW's only come on, like the Tacoma, when the the "lights" are switched on.

 

I don't think it actually turns. It's more like a momentary turn as in it only turns a small distance left or right then goes back to middle.

 

Soo I have to turn my tail lights on for my dash lights to work?.

I think the word your are looking for is
PARKING LIGHTS.
(Also there is a front side amber reflector that illuminates with that circuit as well)

OP: you're losing your mind. Take your Toyota service writer some cookies.

 

The manual says the icon you activate by turning the knob, one passed the day time running light are the tail lights. By activating the tail lights your console lights up as well.

 

Anytime good sir!