Instrument lights too dim.

I'm 100% certain this question has been asked and answered before; I apologize that I cannot find it. By factory design, if the headlight switch is OUT of the OFF position the instrument lights are unreadably dim particularly during day. My insurer and I both believe in the conspicuity improvement gained by day-time head and or fog lights, however in this instance, the clock, temp gauge, compass, etc. might as well been left in Tokyo. Can anyone suggest a (fairly) easy fix, not requiring a M.S. in E.E. I would be happy to pay someone near the Charlotte, NC area. [need-less-to-say the dealer would no sooner fix this factory blunder than remove the emission control system]!
HELP, Paul.

 

Sorry, Paul. I've got the same problem on my new SCION. If I turn on the lights for any reason, as in for rain, the radio goes dark....and it's a touch screen!

 

I assume you tried adjusting the dimmer control thumb wheel

 

I hear swapping to led really helps . I undersatnd its not what you want to hear but modding may be the only way to get around it

 

This mod doesn't look too difficult and may be the simplest way to achieve your desired result. Found it in the cheap mods thread.

My truck did not come with fog lights; I installed them separate wired independent with an add a circuit, I use them as DTRL.

FWIW:

 

http://www.toyotanation.com/forum/6...-orange-red-yuck-how-change-gauge-colors.html

 

Nice photos and info!