Remote LCD Display

There's something missing in your first sentence.  I would check the batteries, even if BAT does not appear on the screen.  If they're weak, that would cause a pale display.  If they're good, and the contrast control doesn't work, my guess is a defective remote.  If you bought it new, call MTH re warranty; if you bought it used, good luck (try to get a copy of original receipt from seller)

It didn't come with batteries so I put in a new set to start with.

It seemed to happen with the factory reset.  It was fine before that.

It's readable but seems dimmer along the edges.  Didn't know if there was another setting I missed.

If no one comes along and mentions some other control, call MTH service desk and chat.

Ok, I'm extremely embrassed!  While originally I tried moving the thumbwheel both ways and didn't see anything, lately I have been scrolling down to increase the contrast.  I happened to be looking at the remote sleep time and when I changed it noticed that scrolling down made the time smaller.  So I went back and tried the contrast again, this time scrolling up.  Although it took a lot the display finally got better to read.