Automatic Headlamp System

When it is dark enough outside, the automatic headlamp system turns on the headlamps at the normal brightness, along with the taillamps, sidemarker, parking lamps, and the instrument panel lights. The radio lights will also be dim.

To turn off the automatic headlamp system, turn the exterior lamps switch to the off position and then release it.

The vehicle has a light sensor located on the top of the instrument panel which

The vehicle has a light sensor located on the top of the instrument panel which regulates when the automatic headlamps turn on. Do not cover the sensor, otherwise the headlamps will come on whenever the ignition is on.

The system may also turn on the headlamps when driving through a parking garage, heavy overcast weather, or a tunnel. This is normal.

There is a delay in the transition between the daytime and nighttime operation of the automatic headlamp system so that driving under bridges or bright overhead street lights does not affect the system. The automatic headlamp system is only affected when the light sensor detects a change in lighting lasting longer than the delay.

If the vehicle is started in a dark garage, the automatic headlamp system will come on immediately. Once the vehicle leaves the garage, it takes approximately one minute for the automatic headlamp system to change if it is bright enough outside. During that delay, the instrument panel cluster may not be as bright as usual. Make sure the instrument panel brightness control is in the full bright position. See Instrument Panel Illumination Control  .

To idle the vehicle with the automatic headlamp system off, turn the control to the off position.

The headlamps will also stay on after you exit the vehicle. This feature can be programmed using the Driver Information Center (DIC). See Vehicle Personalization  .

The regular headlamp system can be turned on when needed.

    See also:

    Steering
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    Control Buttons
    The buttons used to control the radio are: RADIO/BAND: Press to turn the radio on and choose between AM, FM, and XM™, if equipped. MENU/SELECT: Press and turn to navigate the available menus. ...

    Driver Information Center (DIC)
    The Driver Information Center (DIC) provides status of many vehicle systems. The DIC displays warning/ status messages. The DIC display is at the bottom of the instrument panel cluster. The ...