2016 Octavia hatchback diesel vRS.

Noticed something a bit odd with the instrument cluster last evening: we were stuck in traffic and to relieve the eyes for the driver in front I switched the lights from AUTO to the sidelight position to turn the dipped beam headlights out. The instrument cluster lighting then went off leaving only the "needles" for the rev counter and speedo visible. Turning the switch back to AUTO or to the headlight position brought the instrument cluster lighting back on.

On the return journey I tried it again and the same thing happened. Never noticed this before, is it normal? No codes shown on OBD 11 when I had a look this morning....

Completely normal.

It's to remind you to turn the lights on...

They were on, that's the point. The instrument lights went out when I turned the sidelights only on. OK when light switch on AUTO or headlights.

Sidelights are not for driving, instrument lights are not required when not moving. Your instrument lighting is operating correctly.

On 11/10/2025 at 12:22, SwallownAmazon said:

They were on, that's the point. The instrument lights went out when I turned the sidelights only on. OK when light switch on AUTO or headlights.

But the lights for driving were not on , hence no instrument lights. Personally I find it to be a superb feature and wish that all cars were fitted with it.

Maybe there would then be a lot less cars being driven around in the dark/semi dark with nothing but sidelights/DRLs on .

Not a dig at you so please don't be offended but are you 1 of those who seem to " think" that having headlights on are all about seeing where you are going with no thought about being seen.

If the latter is the case chances are your driving a dark coloured car.

None taken..... BUT as I said in the OP, I turned the headlights off in a traffic queue because I could see they were dazzling the driver of the 2-seater in front of me. I have often been semi-blinded by some jerk in an enormous Tonka toy behind me in traffic and don't get me started about those who sit in a queue with their foot on the brake! What's the handbrake for?

1 hour ago, SwallownAmazon said:

None taken..... BUT as I said in the OP, I turned the headlights off in a traffic queue because I could see they were dazzling the driver of the 2-seater in front of me. I have often been semi-blinded by some jerk in an enormous Tonka toy behind me in traffic and don't get me started about those who sit in a queue with their foot on the brake! What's the handbrake for?

^^^ an excellent practice, I just wish more drivers were as considerate.

But instrument lighting not needed until you start moving again - when the dark instruments help serve as a reminder to turn lights back on.