I’ve noticed when I turn on my side lights as it’s getting dark I would normally expect the dash lights to come on. Or as in the old Leon Toledo for it to automatically illuminate the dials as it gets dark. But I’m finding it hard to see the dials because even with side lights on the text of the dials remains unlit.

 

am I missing a setting in the info system?

Mine is much the same

 

I understand the dash lights dim as a reminder to switch on the headlights.

 

The Skoda's dash lights go back to full brightness when the side-lights are switched on, whereas in the SEAT only turning on headlights brings the dashboard lights on.

 

There is a light sensor in the gauge cluster - If you shine a light on it the dash lights become brighter.

Think I’ll have to see if I can change this in vcds.

Why not just put your lights fully on?  Why wouldn’t you want to be as visible as possible?