The d*mn automatic headlight sensor - HELP

[Robert G]

OK, it's daytime and I'm taking my new Vibe AWD out for a drive. I start the car while in the garage. After a few seconds, maybe more, I pull out. Then, the automatic headlight sensor turns on the headlights. Fine. I figure maybe I'll have the problem others have posted about -- it cycles on and off at the drop of a cloud. But no, my headlights go on and don't go off until I turn the car off. I call the dealer and describe my situation to the service guy. He says, it's the way it's suppose to work -- the lights won't go off until I shut off the car. That seems odd to me, especially since I read other people's posts and they seem to be worried about the sensor cycling the lights on and off too often. Am I nuts? BTW, I then asked the service guy about just disconnecting the d*mn sensor (as I figure we can turn the lights on and off the old fashioned way, as with my other car). He says he's not sure, but it may be real difficult, having to go in the dash, blah, blah, blah. I decide to cut my losses and end the call.Your advice please. Should I press the issue with the service dept at the dealer? Should I call Pontiac (I read one post which indicated that a call to Pontiac did no good). Should I contact Toyota (which has seemed to own up to the problem before Pontiac). Should I just remove the smoked out sensor cover and call it a day? HELP.(Otherwise, we love the car. It is tight, fun, sporty, good looking, unique, ....)

[russ257]

ok i dont understand peoples problems with this sensor yes i notice the light indicating my headlights are on comeing on and off sometimes but it doesnt bother me at all. because of drl your headlights are always on so your tail lights are all that come on and the dash dims i dont notice the dash dimming enog. i dunno

[ragingfish]

I couldn't tell you if the sensor is malfunctioning or what not. But to disconnect the sensor, simply take a flat screwdriver, dig around it, pop it out, and disconnect the harness. THAT'S IT!!!

[Shadow Realm]

When the car is on the daytime lights are always on. That means that the lights outside the car should be the only thing on...when it gets dark it should turn on you interior dash lights and the same thing when it gets light again then they should go off. If you're saying that your interior lights stay on all the time then you should take it to local dealer and have them look at your Vibe.Shadow Realm

[vibe owner]

Hey, disconnect the sensor, it is easy. Lower the steering wheel, grab the trim rings (around the instruments), and pull straight out. Once the trim rings are off the sensor plug is right there. Lots more discussion at http://vibeowner.home.comcast.net