I am troubleshooting for an intermittent non functioning dimmer problem.

I have searched and can not find what is correct operation.
On my X5, if it is daylight, the lighted dials (backlight)do not come on.
( so far as I can tell, I'm outside) At night, when I start the engine
WITHOUT the headlights on,I get a well illuminated panel.
That is odd to me, if it is supposed to do that.
On my E39 if you start the engine at night, the dash will be dark
until you select the lights to either park or on.

The reason I ask is because on the X5 in any selection except off I get the dimmer to work, but only on the MID, HVAC, Annunciation panel.
The dimmer dial does not regulate the dials. The intensity is fine, I just want to
Be able to brighten or dim the dials.

I am at a loss as to why the dimmer does work, yet only on select items.
I did remove and reseat all the dash fuses, for whatever reason, they began to work properly, today they dont
Any ideas?

__________________
2003 4.6is X5
2003 525it
2003 E53 X5 Standard shift