Is automatic headlight operation in this car normally a bit quirky?

Headlights tend to turn on and stay on quite early on sunny afternoons when shadows are long and sun is glaring. Headlight operation doesn't bother me much, but the IP dims and becomes nearly unreadable in direct light.

The ambient light and LH sun angle sensors [seem] to be recessed a bit farther than in other GM cars with auto lamps. Can imperfect reassembly of the dash pad and/or sensor plate cause this problem? Fit/fastener quality seems rather hit-and-miss with this model.

 

First thing to do if you haven't done it already is try cleaning the sensor. Dirty sensor will tend to allow the headlights to turn on early. Hopefully it's that simple for you.

 

Thanks for reply.

Before careful cleaning lights would come on even earlier. Harshest thing I've used is a very dilute, general-purpose detergent, foam applicator and micro-fiber towel.

Will clean again carefullyperhaps it was especially filthy.

 

Found the problem. Broken plastic welds on sensor mounting brackets. Epoxy "fix" didn't even last until the new replacement defroster grille arrived. Headlight operation now normal.