[DoubleRsport]

I just noticed lately that when in "auto" mode, the headlights seem to always be on even when outside in bright daylight. The lights still do the "dance" when I start it up in the garage so I do not think anything is wrong with the adaptive system. I am able to turn the headlights off when I dial the switch to the off position so that seems to be functioning normal too. There are no fault lights or codes but is it possible that the little light sensor in the middle of the dash is damaged and not sensing outside light anymore? And is there any drawback to driving with the lights on all the time other than shortening the lifespan of the bulbs?

Thanks

 

[umbertob]

No drawbacks (that's how DRL work in countries where they are mandatory after all, the HID low beams remain on at full intensity whenever the engine is running.) However, the sensor for the headlights is not in the middle of the dash, it's sandwiched between rear view mirror and windshield, along with the rain sensor for the automatic wipers. Perhaps your windshield is a bit dirty in the area? FYI, my auto headlights usually stay on for quite a while after sunrise as I am driving to work in the morning, although eventually they do extinguish by themselves.

 

[DoubleRsport]

Hmmm I did have the service tag dangling there for most of the day before I took it off and most likely it was covering that sensor. Maybe it takes awhile for it to reset. I really don't want to bring it back in to the dealership since I was just there for an oil change haha they will have have to restock all the free sodas and snacks. What is the sensor on the dash next to the center speaker for?

 

[gooseyloosey]

FYI, my auto headlights usually stay on for quite a while after sunrise as I am driving to work in the morning, although eventually they do extinguish by themselves.

smog?

 

[umbertob]

What is the sensor on the dash next to the center speaker for?

It's the sunlight sensing photocells for the A/C system. A service tag dangling from the rear view mirror would not affect the headlamps sensor, but dirt on the windshield in front of the sensor area might since the sensor is flush with the windshield. The sensor "eye" is visible if you look at the center of your windshield from the front of the car, right by the rear view mirror mount on the glass.

 

[ChipN]

I love the auto feature and this one seems to turn them on pre maturely. If you live in a really dark area you will find that the brights come on when the switch is on the auto position. For me and the Local Cop the the other night it didn't auto turn off the brights fast off enough. I don't know if I like this feature at all. I just leave the LED's on cloudy days (which are as cool they as on Audie's)