Hi everyone. I'm new to this forum and in need of help. I have searched and researched and am not finding answers. Who better to ask than experienced owners?

Here's the situation: I just purchased a used 2014 Accent GLS sedan (auto trans) with 34k miles. I've had it less than a month. All's been fine until a week or so ago. I get in at night, after work, start it up, put it in D, then things get wonky. First time, the dash and interior lights dimmed automatically down to nothing as soon as I shifted into D. They stayed that way until about 2 blocks from home when they came on full strength. Second time, same, except when I went over a bump in the road the lights came on strong, then dimmed right back out. It did this a couple more times then stayed dim the rest of the way home. Third time, they DIDN'T dim until about halfway home. I'm driving down the road... all of a sudden everything's dim. They come back on full strength, dim again... This has happened every day now for about a week. There does not seem to be a pattern to it. Then this morning, in daylight, when I put the key in the dash lights were dim and stayed that way all the way to work. Coming home tonight, same intermittent crazy-making dimming. I've spent hours trying to figure this out. I'm at the end of my rope.

I've searched the owner's manual and, under "lighting control" (p 4 | 53) see "auto light position" (if equipped), but don't think that's related. All's I see is the "illumination control ****." I tried turning it all the way up -- no effect. I tried covering up what may be a sensor (black bubble on top of the dash in middle near windshield) in case streetlights were making it think it was daylight. No effect.

So, I need to know -- is this automatic dimming thing normal or is there something seriously wrong with my car? If it is normal, is there a way to override it? I find it VERY disturbing and disconcerting, especially since I bought this car to replace one with electrical issues. If it is not normal then surely it would be covered under mfg warranty. There are no mods on this car at all. It is all OEM. I would sincerely appreciate any help. Thanks.

 

I have never heard of automatic dimming dash lights.
Sounds more like a loose wire or bad connector
And since it is interior, I would search dash/ under dash/ cabin area first
Check fuses and generally inspect wiring

Good luck, hope you find the problem

 

Thank you avisitor. I believe you're correct, as I have just discovered that a light fingertip to the general area of the controls to the left of the steering wheel (eco, ESC, then illumination wheel on right) causes all interior lights to flicker and go out. Not talking about pressing buttons or moving the wheel -- just barely touching the area. I will check fuses and wires as suggested. I realize "as is" means "as is" but still... I am beyond disappointed. I'm heartbroken and furious. Appreciate your help very much though.