Instrument cluster and lcd display illumination

[Focusoap]

My mk2 tdci doesn't have any illumination dimmer but the instrument cluster and lcd message centre backlights are very poor and it's impossible to see the lcd display during the day (even though the lcd backlight is lit). Things are a little better at night but not spectacular.

Can any body tell me if this is normal and I've got to put up with it or have I got an instrument cluster problem? Everything else works fine it just looks like the illumination isn't getting full voltage.

Any ideas or solutions appreciated would be nice to see the lcd info during the day.

Thanks for a really informative forum and amazed at the scope and depth of knowledge out there.

[FatHead1979]

I've got a MK2 and I agree that the cluster display isn't that bright.  However unless mine has the sun shining directly on it, it is still readable.  If you can post a picture then I'm sure you'll get prompt feedback.

[Dee_82]

you can get a dimmer switch added but I don't think that will help you, its just a variable resistor which  will only DIM the lighting unless the default light switch without dimmer is for some reason pre-Dimmed?

Even on the mk2.5 the indicators are utterly crap in the day light but at least we have the LED display rather than the old LCD,

Mod that ....thing, where there is a will there is a way, or just replace the IC :)

 

 

[Focusoap]

Thanks for the responses. Think I will take a look at the instrument cluster and see if there is anything obvious on the connections etc.

Does any body know if the lcd message display has external illumination or is it integral with the lcd module?

Thanks!

[Dee_82]

LCDs are usually backlit or you wont see them at all in the dark. the LCD screen is usually just a small film sitting in front of a light board, I only have the LED display on mine so cant be of much use I'm afraid

[yonexp]

hi, i have the same issue, i cant see the sony cd radio player illumination during the day, instrument cluster is ok. is there any chance to adjust player illumination? 

[Dee_82]

you can dim it... thats about all. LCD backlighting is notoriously bad in the sun,  there isnt a whole lot you can do about it other than remove the sun light. I suspect you could probably mod it, increase the voltage going to the back light but its a lot of faff, if its even do able at all