458 Italia Ambient Light Sensor Location

Hi,
I have a 2011 458 Italia with all windows, including the windshield tinted. The yellow tachometer dial backlight is off during the day, making it hard to see the gauge. However, when I pull into the garage, the headlights turn on and the backlight on the tachometer lights up, making it very easy to see. I'm wondering two things -
First, where is this sensor located. I thought it was on the dash, but I covered what I thought was the sensor with a thick towel and it doesn't seem to have any effect.
Second, would there be any negative results if it was possible to deactivate or cover up this sensor. Obviously the lights would be on all the time when the car is being driven, but I don't see a problem with that.

Thank you,

 

You would think so, but for some reason turning on the headlights manually, at least in the daytime doesn't turn on the tach backlight.
Seems there is some sensor that controls the backlight operation.

 

I think that is correct, but the lights can be in the ON position or AUTO position.
My real question though was, where is the ambient light sensor located? If I can find that it should be pretty easy to test.
I will try to find the post about adding light to the tach. Thank you.

 

Got it! Thank you.

Got it! Thank you!

 

The sensor is inside the base of the rearview mirror, facing against the inside of the windshield. To put a sticker over it, you have to remove the mirror, take out the sensor and then block it from getting light, such as a piece of material or sticker. I'm hesitant to pull off the mirror as the Service Guide just shows to pull it downward. Sometimes that kind of fastening can break as you don't know how much force to apply to get it unlatched. I'm still deciding if I should try it or not.
The alternative is to put a sticker on the outside of the glass, which would likely work, but possibly not look good. Maybe put a Ferrari sticker on it?

Seems like the better solution is for the dealer to change the setting that allows black background tachs to be on in the day, and yellow and white to not. See the bottom of the attached PDF. It clearly states that black ones are on during the day, yellow and white are not. So, this is software selectable and should be able to be turned on.

 

Very interesting idea about the glass technician! I was definitely going to try it with tape before going to the trouble. That is a very simple solution and might even be the end solution for this problem.
Thank you,