Odd dash light problem when dark only

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Nov 1, 2008 | 09:54 PM

Jims1988C4

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From: Wayne NJ

Odd dash light problem when dark only

When I put my headlights on when its dark,the dash goes out and is completely dark. I can barely see the gauges. when I shine a light in the dimmer sensor the lights come back on. If my headlights are off the dash works fine. I replaced my headlight motors awhile ago and never used my car at night because the headlights didnt work. IM not sure if it was like that before or not.What might be the problem ?? If I put my headlights up during the day or if its a bright cloudy day they work fine.

Nov 1, 2008 | 10:45 PM

LangstC4

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From: CA

There is a light sensor in the dash that is supposed to dim the dash at night...could be defective. You can also try turning the headlight **** clockwise..At least in my 85 there is a dimmer.

Nov 1, 2008 | 11:07 PM

Blak Z06

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From: Cincinnati Ohio

Quote:

Originally Posted by LangstC4

You can also try turning the headlight **** clockwise..At least in my 85 there is a dimmer.

Sounds like the problem.. But if you've ever owned a GM vehicle you know the dash dimmer is in this switch and you already checked that.. Right??

Nov 2, 2008 | 12:48 AM

jfb

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From: Cincinnati, Oh USA

From the poster's forum name I gather he has an 88 (always leave no doubt and include the year vette you are asking help for), and the 88 has a dash dimmer control as part of the headlight switch. If you turn the headlight switch **** clockwise, you brighten the dash in the dark. Try it.

Nov 2, 2008 | 03:20 AM

BAM92

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From: Houston Texas

My 89 had this problem with the sensor on the light sensor on the left hand side of the dash. If, I put my finger over it, the dash would go dark.

Nov 2, 2008 | 09:51 AM

Jims1988C4

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From: Wayne NJ

Quote:

Originally Posted by Blak Z06

Sounds like the problem.. But if you've ever owned a GM vehicle you know the dash dimmer is in this switch and you already checked that.. Right??

Nov 2, 2008 | 09:53 AM

Jims1988C4

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From: Wayne NJ

"There is a light sensor in the dash that is supposed to dim the dash at night...could be defective" That sounds like the problem.

Nov 2, 2008 | 09:45 PM

jfb

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From: Cincinnati, Oh USA

If the photocell were defective, then shining the flashlight on it wouldn't have an effect. Since the OP said he can brighten the lights with a flashlight on the photocell, the photocell is good.
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