Q about dash lighting ('08 XLS)

[MikePru]

We are long-time Toyota faithful, my wife is now in her second month in our first Avalon (traded Sequoia - whew!).

During daylight driving, we turn the dash light intensity down just a bit - just a touch under the "max" light setting. After a short interval, it dims again on its own. It does not happen if the light setting is on "max," but when we set it to a comfortable (for us) daytime level, we don't want it to decide to turn itself down again.

Nothing I could find in the manual.

Do I have a problem that needs dealership assistance?

thanks in advance

[tundradg]

I know with my Tundra's automatic headlamps, when I go under bridges and such, the dash lights automatically adjust intensity (even if the headlamps are not turned on). Sometimes when I am going under multiple highway overpasses and such I notice that they dim and brighten pretty quickly in response to the changes in lighting. If you don't get response here, you might want to take it to the dealership to see if they can help you...I don't think there is an issue per say, but I believe they might have an answer for you.

[MikePru]

Thanks, Tundradg. I was beginning to think I stumped the panel.

Are you a drag racing fan? Familliar with the "Boston Monkey?" They run locally in your vicinity...

[Isresistancefutile?]

Tundra DG is right. There is an ambient light sensor (I haven't found it - yet) that adjusts the Avalon dash lighting according to conditions. It is an abrupt adjustment of about one-third of a step in brightness each time. In daylight it is most pronounced going under a bridge. At night it stays pretty constant unless you enter a brightly lit tunnel or parking garage. This happens regardless of your personal setting - unless your setting is max bright or max dim. No override exists, but that won't stop me from trying!

[MikePru]

Great guys, thanks. Knowing this is likely a designed function - even if I can't put my finger on what causes it - is better than thinking I have some electrical gremlin...the description of "one third step" is just about right on.

appreciate it.

[tundradg]

Glad to know I could put my limited knowledge to us.

As far as location is concerned, I don't recall where it would be on the Avalon's dash board. But I believe (I have not tested this theory) that it is located on the dash, relatively close to the windshield and not far from the defroster vent. I think it's a small plastic circle I believe. I could be way off base on this one though...