Instrument Cluster Lamps too dim 2013 XLT

[JamaicaJoe]

A very annoying aspect of my new to me 2013 EXPY is the dim instrument cluster and radio display (basic radio). I have to turn the headlights on in order for the red needles on the gauges, Odo , fuel, oil, water, temp, battery etc to even show up. It seems counterintuitive that I must have the headlights on during the day for these to show. 90% of my driving is during the day here in Florida and so. It does not help that the background is black and the gauges outlined in some faux chrome trim. Geez. Is there a setting I am missing? Yeah I have rotated the control next to the steering column.

 

[Mmart]

That same control knob you mentioned was broken on my 2010, It only worked in one position at full brightness, if I touched it at all it would dim all the way

 

[Jason2840]

I have the same issue on my 2010 Expedition Limited, that most of the time in the day I can't read the fuel guage. Can we change the bulbs to a brighter LED?

 

[JamaicaJoe]

I have the same issue on my 2010 Expedition Limited, that most of the time in the day I can't read the fuel guage. Can we change the bulbs to a brighter LED?

It seems to be by design that you must have the headlights on to have those gauges lit up. My radio it turns out has some loose solder near the VFD display. That I can fix. The other seems to be software setting in the SJB . I am hoping someone says "Get Forscan and set xxxx to yy. I doubt it an be rewired or better bulb installed. Well rewiring maybe if there were better schematics.

 

[twodollars]

Guess I should be grateful, my 2013 is stuck on full bright. Thanks for the change in perspective!

 

[JamaicaJoe]

Guess I should be grateful, my 2013 is stuck on full bright. Thanks for the change in perspective!

If you figure it out let me know! Probably someone found "the wire" and spliced it hot!

 

[JayB66]

I have the same problem with my 09 XLT. If It's in the shade, I can make it out. otherwise, I'm S.O.L. I don't think I'm up to pulling the cluster out to change the bulbs.