dash lighting

This actually started a few weeks ago but I didnt think anything of it until it got slighty worse today. Anytime I go to turn my headlights on, the digital odometer goes off for about 5 seconds, (the headlights come on instantly though) and at the same time the speedometer light and odometer come on. Now sometimes when I turn the headlights on it will do the same thing but only the odometer comes back on and I have to shut the car off and back on for the speedometer to eventually light up.

I havn't the slightest idea whats wrong, any help is appreciated, thanks.

New headlight switch.????

That would be the cause for the delay in the dash lighting to come on? Or to not come on at all?

I think you may have a bad connection on the rheostat.

So replacing the headlight switch would fix it? If it means anything sometimes when the lighting goes out I can hear a beep or a high pitched hum or something, it doesnt last long at all but its definatly there.

I am betting on the switch. But for a more definate idea get a multi-meter and take dash apart. Start with a visual inspection of all connections and wiring. Then use the meter to test for stray voltage. The headlight switch is connected to the door chime to alert you when you have left the lights on. So a short here could generate a beep sound. The chime itself could be the source of your problems. Simply unplug it to test. If your problem goes away when the chime is unplugged then you have found it. Good Luck.