Daytime running lights, or DRL, have been implemented in many places around the world as an added safety measure for cars.
These lights help to make cars more visible in low light situations and show that the engine is running.
Systems like the daytime running lights are designed to keep you from getting into an accident so it’s important to know the warning signs that indicate their failure.
As one of the lighting devices to improve driving safety, DRLs has gradually become one of the configurations of modern cars.
Due to its use and performance, LED bulbs have become the new favorite to replace the original halogen bulbs, and some car manufacturers even directly launch LED running light assemblies.
In this blog, we will walk into the world of daytime running lights together. Understanding daytime running lights is helpful to operate when you want to upgrade the LED DRL bulbs, and to improve driving safety.
Let’s start with the introduction of daytime running lights.
What Is daytime running lights?
DRL stands for “daytime running lights, and the associated dashboard light is there to let you know about the lights themselves.” These lights are on during the day to aid in visibility, though they’re not as bright as headlights.
If the dash light turns on or blinks, it could mean the lights are malfunctioning in some way. Perhaps a fuse has blown, or the DRL relay isn’t working as intended.
A bad headlight switch or bulb could also be the culprit. There’s even a chance another vital safety element within the car is not working properly.
If you fight yourself dealing with a persistent DRL light on your dashboard, there are a few things you can do to figure out why it’s there and, hopefully, get rid of it.
The Evolution and Historical Development of Daytime Running Lights
The technological innovation of Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) has an intriguing history and a remarkable evolution.
The journey of DRLs began in the mid-20th century, with initial usage found in Nordic countries. This was primarily due to the extended periods of darkness that these locations experience.
The 1960s mark the beginning era for the implementation of DRLs, following the decision by Finland to install them in their military vehicles.
This decision came after recognizing their potential to enhance visibility in the dark winters. Finland then extended the application of DRLs to all vehicles in the 1970s, marking the first national mandate on DRL implementation.
The 1970s dawned a new phase, when countries like Sweden took notice of the safety benefits of DRLs and followed suit in their implementation. It became a legal requirement in 1977 for all Swedish-made cars to have DRLs installed.
Other European countries like Denmark and Iceland adopted this measure in the subsequent decades.
In the 1990s, the use of DRLs spread across the globe, including North America. Canada mandated the installation of DRLs on new motor vehicles, citing their effectiveness in reducing daytime multiple-vehicle crashes.
The 21st century has seen remarkable advancements in DRL technology. Modern DRLs are now equipped with LED technology, offering enormous benefits such as enhanced visibility, longevity, and reduced energy consumption.
From their initial military use to becoming a global safety feature in cars, DRLs have evolved significantly.
Their proven effectiveness in enhancing vehicle visibility and reducing road accidents makes them a reliable safety feature worldwide. With further technological advances, the efficiency and design of DRLs are set to continue to improve.
Types of Daytime Running Lights
What is DRL in the cars on the road today? There are four common types:
- Low-energy headlights. Some DRL systems use the factory headlights as daytime running lights. They supply low energy to the bulbs, illuminating them but at a lower light output than when the headlights are on.
- Fog light DRLs. Some vehicles use fog lights, marker bulbs, or another front-facing light other than the headlamps as their daytime running lights. It’s just as effective, and these bulbs can be even easier to replace and less expensive.
- Dedicated LED DRLs. Light Emitting Diode (LED) DRLs are very popular and can be seen on many modern vehicles. LED DRLs illuminate instantly, operate at a low temperature, and consume less power, making them more efficient than other bulb types.
- Aftermarket-installed DRL systems. For vehicle owners that want the benefit of daytime running lights but they weren’t installed from factory, it’s possible to wire in a DRL module with your choice of lights to use.
Purpose of Daytime Running Lights
Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) on cars serve several important purposes in improving road safety. Here’s how they contribute:
#1. Enhancing Safety.
DRLs’ primary goal is to enhance safety on the roads. These lights make vehicles more noticeable to other drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists.
With DRLs, cars are less likely to blend into their surroundings. This is especially true in poor light, like cloudy days or shadows.
This visibility is crucial for preventing accidents and ensuring everyone’s safety.
#2. Improving Visibility In Daylight.
Unlike regular headlights, DRLs are bright enough to be seen during the day but not so bright as to blind other drivers.
They are useful where changing light patterns can momentarily hide vehicles. This can happen when driving through patches of shadow or in sudden weather changes.
#3. Decreasing Accidents.
Statistics and studies consistently show that DRLs can significantly decrease accidents. By making vehicles more visible.
DRLs help other drivers react sooner and more effectively, particularly during critical daytime driving hours. DRLs are linked to fewer collisions, including with vehicles and pedestrians.
How To Turn on Daytime Running Lights
To turn on your vehicle’s daytime running lights (DRLs), start by locating the light control switch, usually found on the dashboard or steering column.
- Ensure the vehicle’s ignition is on, as daytime running lights (DRLs) activate when the engine is running.
- Identify the DRL symbol on the switch, usually resembling a sun or light bulb.
- Turn the switch to the DRL position or set the light control to ‘Auto’ in some vehicles.
- Consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions, as the process may vary by make and model.
Once activated, DRLs will enhance visibility and safety during daylight hours.
How Does Car DRL Work?
Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) are designed to operate simply yet effectively to ensure vehicles are visible during daylight hours. Here’s a breakdown of how these lights function:
#1. Low-Intensity Front Lights.
DRLs are low-intensity lights located at the front of the vehicle. Unlike headlights, which are used during the night or in poor visibility conditions to illuminate the road ahead for the driver, DRLs are less intense.
Their primary function is not to light up the road but to make the vehicle more visible to others during the day.
#2. Always On When Engine Running.
One key feature of DRLs is that they are automatically activated when the car’s engine is turned on. This ensures that they are always in use while the vehicle operates without requiring any action from the driver.
This automatic feature helps maintain consistent visibility of the vehicle during daytime driving.
#3. Controlled By Vehicle’s Electrical System.
DRLs are integrated into the vehicle’s electrical system, which controls their operation. This integration allows the DRLs to function seamlessly with other vehicle systems.
For instance, in many vehicles, the DRLs will dim or switch off when the headlights are turned on, ensuring that there is no unnecessary power consumption or overlap in functionality.
Guidelines for Utilizing Daytime Running Lights under Various Driving Scenarios
#1. Normal Daylight Conditions.
Daytime Running Lights (DRL) are primarily designed to enhance the visibility of your vehicle during daylight hours. Under these conditions, they can be relied upon to provide increased safety to yourself and other road users.
To optimize the use of DRL during normal daylight conditions, simply ensure your vehicle’s settings are configured to automatically activate them when the ignition is turned on. Most modern vehicles are equipped with this feature as standard.
#2. Nighttime Driving.
Although DRL are most effective during daylight hours, they can also play a crucial role at night. However, it’s important to remember that DRL should not be used in place of your vehicle’s regular headlights when visibility is low.
DRL are not designed to illuminate the road ahead, but to make your vehicle more visible to others. When driving at night, ensure your headlights are activated for optimal visibility and safety.
#3. Foggy and Low-Visibility Conditions.
In situations where fog or other weather conditions reduce visibility, DRL may not provide sufficient visibility to others. It’s recommended to engage your vehicle’s fog lights or low-beam headlights in these situations for enhanced safety.
Is It Legal to Drive with DRL At All Times?
It’s worth noting that in some jurisdictions, the law may require the use of DRL during daylight hours. At the same time, some places have restrictions or prohibitions on their use under certain conditions, such as at night or during fog.
Therefore, it’s essential to educate yourself about your local laws and regulations related to DRL use.
- Ensure your vehicle’s lights are properly maintained and fully functional. Any burnt-out bulbs should be replaced promptly.
- If your vehicle doesn’t have automatic DRL, consider upgrading to a vehicle that has them or having them installed.
- Always use your regular headlights in low light or nighttime driving conditions. DRL are not a substitute for headlights.
- Understand the laws in your jurisdiction regarding DRL. Not all places have the same regulations and requirements.
Are Daytime Running Lights Safe?
Daytime running lights keep vehicles visible during the day. Some studies even show that installing running lights can reduce the risk of accidents.
As long as you follow state laws regarding automotive lights, there should be no danger in installing daytime running lights.
Causes Of Daytime Running Lights
If you are driving and the DRL warning light turns on, the first thing to do is to evaluate the potential causes of the problem. By doing so, it will be easier to determine the most effective solutions:
#1. Faulty Bulb.
The most common reason is that you have a faulty bulb. When the DRL warning light turns on, the light is not working.
Burnt Bulb
It is a warning to let you know that there is something wrong. Hence, it could be that the bulb itself is not functioning as it should or is burnt, and that is what the dashboard light is trying to communicate to the driver.
One Side of the DRL Works Fine
If a faulty bulb triggers the problem, only the left or right side of the DRL will work most of the time. The bulbs on both sides will rarely burn or wear out simultaneously.
Today, most DRL bulbs are LED. They are long-lasting and efficient. Meaning it will take a long time before they will wear out.
So, if you have a new car and the DRL warning light turns on, it is almost impossible that the problem is because of a burnt bulb.
Can Be a Part of the Headlamp or a Separate Unit
A DRL bulb can be a part of the headlamp or a separate unit. It will be easier and cheaper to replace if it is separate since you can install a new one without getting rid of the headlight.
#2. Burnt Socket.
If the bulb is not the problem, another possibility is that the issue is with the socket. It could have burnt or melted, which is especially common if you have an old car.
The best way to check is to disassemble it and see if it has brown marks or any other visual indicator of damage. Test the bulb on another side, and if it is working, then there is a high chance that the problem is with the socket.
#3. Defective Ambient Light Sensor.
Tiny But Crucial Component
The ambient light sensor is a tiny but crucial component in your car’s dash. It is connected to automatic lighting functions. However, it works as if it has a mind of its own. This is what will determine if the DRL should be on.
Automatically Turns on the Headlight When Necessary
It also automatically turns on the headlight when necessary. It usually looks like half a dome, which you can find in the middle or outside the dash.
The ambient lights sensor might be old, and hence, it is not properly detecting the functionality of the DRL. For instance, even if the DRL is on, the sensor might be unable to detect such, and hence, it can send a wrong signal to the system, which will trigger the warning light.
#4. Blown Fuse.
The DRL fuse is located in the engine compartment. In most cars, you will find it behind the battery. The fuse is responsible for the functionality of the DRL.
If the fuse has any problem, such as when it is blown, the DRL will not illuminate. In turn, this can activate the DRL warning light in your dashboard.
#5. Loose Electrical Connector.
Many vehicle owners often ignore electrical connectors. One of the things that can happen when they loosen is that the light won’t function as it should, including the DRL.
Especially if you often drive on bumpy terrains, the connectors can loosen over time. These connectors will connect the light to the power source, and hence, when they are in the wrong position, the light won’t work.
advantages of Using Daytime Running Lights
Everyone can agree that road safety is paramount. DRLs aren’t just an aesthetic accessory, but they make your driving experience safer.
- DRLs improve visibility. Because the lights are on whenever you’re in motion during the day, other drivers can better see where you’re headed and make informed traffic decisions.
- They reduce accidents. This simple system is responsible for a decrease in daytime accidents of between 5 and 10 percent, according to the NHTSA, since other traffic has a better chance of seeing your car and avoiding you.
- They prolong your headlight lifespan. Since DRLs operate at a lower wattage than full headlights, they can reduce the number of times you’ll need to replace the bulbs.
- They can be quite attractive. Many DRL systems use stylish LEDs to accomplish their task, and it improves the look of your car.
Are there any negatives for DRLs? There really aren’t any to speak of, especially since they’re factory-installed equipment in almost all vehicles on the road today.
disadvantages of Using Daytime Running Lights
There have been concerns that drivers may incorrectly assume that because their front DRLs are illuminated, their rear lights will be on as well, as happens with sidelights.
Yet with rear DRLs not mandatory this can cause a situation where a car is driving with no rear illumination, despite the fact it may be hard to spot due to the conditions.
Research from the RAC in 2018 found that 62% of drivers had encountered cars in dull, overcast conditions driving with no rear lights on.
And while automatic headlights (which use sensors to turn on when low light levels are detected) may mitigate this issue, it remains the case that it is not unusual to spot a car with no rear lights on, when they are arguably required.
The Impacts of DRLs on Road Safety
Various studies have highlighted the profound impact of DRLs on enhancing road safety. According to these reports, DRLs reduce multi-vehicle “daylight” accidents by a significant percentage.
They are particularly effective in avoiding head-on and front-corner collisions, which are among the most dangerous types of crashes.
As they are usually automatically activated, DRLs also eliminate the human error aspect of forgetting to turn lights on, this feature is particularly useful when transitioning from bright sunlight into a shaded area.
- Increased vehicle visibility: DRLs make a vehicle more conspicuous, increasing its visibility to other road users both in daylight and in poor weather conditions.
- Enhanced safety for pedestrians and cyclists: Pedestrians and cyclists, too, stand to benefit from vehicle DRLs as they can better discern the presence of an oncoming vehicle from afar.
- Improved differentiation between parked and moving vehicles: DRLs provide a helpful indication that a car is in motion, differentiating it from parked vehicles.
In conclusion, daytime running lights play a significant role in road safety, contributing greatly to the prevention of accidents.
As vehicle safety technology continues to evolve, it is likely that these features will continue to be optimized for an even stronger impact on enhancing road safety.
DRL regulations in Canada and the U.S.
In Canada, DRL regulations have been in place since 1990, mandating that all new vehicles, either made or imported, must have daytime running lights. The Canadian regulations align with the Scandinavian regulations and aim to improve road safety.
In the United States, DRLs are not mandatory at the federal level. The Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 108 (FMVSS 108) permits but does not require DRLs.
However, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) regulations override state laws, making DRLs legal in all states even though some previously banned them.
It’s important to note that DRL usage is more focused on increasing vehicle visibility to enhance road safety, and as such, more countries are adopting these regulations over time.
Prospects and Evolving Trends for Daytime Running Lights in Upcoming Vehicles
Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) are now a common feature in vehicles, increasingly considered essential for automotive safety. DRLs provide additional visibility during daylight hours, making vehicles more noticeable to other road users.
As the technology evolves and integrates with other aspects of vehicle design, several trends and predictions can be made about the future of DRLs in vehicles.
#1. The Integration of DRLs with Auto-Pilot Systems.
Notably, the synergy between DRLs and autonomous driving technology is expected to be at the forefront of future vehicle development.
Autonomous vehicles rely on various sensory systems for navigation and hazard detection, including cameras, Lidar, and radar.
Integrating DRLs with these autonomous systems could significantly enhance daytime visibility, further improving safety.
#2. Eco-Friendly and Energy-Efficient DRLs.
As the global automotive industry shifts towards more environmentally friendly alternatives, DRLs are expected to follow suit. Future designs of DRLs may use low-energy, high-efficiency light sources like LEDs.
Using such energy efficient technology would minimize the DRLs’ carbon footprint, aligning with the broader aim of developing eco-friendly automobiles.
Additionally, energy-efficient DRLs could also reduce power drain on the vehicle’s battery, thus improving overall fuel efficiency.
#3. Enhancing Vehicle Aesthetics with DRLs.
Aesthetically, DRLs also have great potential. With advancements in technology, DRLs will likely play a larger role in defining a vehicle’s visual identity.
Innovative light designs could become a signature element, contributing to the overall style and character of globe-spanning vehicle brands.
How to Fix DRL Warning Light
Below are some of the solutions that can work if you are clueless about how to fix a DRL light. The process can vary whether you have a Volkswagen DRL light, Honda DRL light, or DRL light in any other car brand:
#1. Change the Bulb.
As earlier mentioned, a flashing DRL warning light can be because of a faulty bulb. Such is most common in old cars with lights that are long due for a replacement.
If that’s the case, then the easiest solution is to change the bulb, which will prevent the triggering of the warning light.
Easy DIY Task
Changing the bulb is an easy DIY task. You do not need to pay a pro to do the job. Even better, it is affordable.
Most will cost between $14 to $26. Meanwhile, the labor can cost up to $85, so you can save money by replacing it yourself.
Here is a quick step-by-step guide on replacing the DRL bulb:
Step 1: Choose the Right LED Bulb
Before you begin, make sure you have selected the correct LED bulbs for your vehicle.
Check your vehicle owner’s manual or consult a professional mechanic to find the correct LED bulb size and type compatible with your vehicle make and model.
Step 2: Gather the Necessary Tools
You’ll need the following tools to change daylight bulbs:
- slotted screwdriver
- a pair of gloves (optional)
Step 3: Open hood and locate daytime running bulbs
Open the hood of your car and find the light bulb that runs during the day. It is usually located near the headlight assembly. If you’re not sure, check your owner’s manual for the exact location.
Step 4: Remove the Old Bulb
Before removing the old bulb, please wear gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges and grease. Remove any covering or clips that may be holding the bulb in place.
Press the release tab on the electrical connector and carefully pull it off the bulb. Turn the bulb counterclockwise to remove it from the socket.
Step 5: Install LED Bulbs
Take the new LED bulb and carefully align the tabs on the bottom of the bulb with the slots in the socket.
Insert the LED bulb and turn clockwise to secure it in place. Double check to make sure the bulb is securely seated.
Step 6: Test the New LED Bulb
Turn on your vehicle and check that the new LED daytime running bulbs are working properly. If the LED does not come on, try rotating the bulb 180 degrees in the socket and test again.
Step 7: Reassemble the vehicle
Once the LED bulb is functioning properly, reassemble any covers, clips, or screws that were removed during the process. Close the hood of the vehicle.
Once you have completed these steps, you can successfully replace your daytime running bulbs with LED bulbs. Then enjoy greater visibility and longer lasting bulbs in your vehicle.
#2. Change the Socket.
Does the bulb work? Is the DRL warning light still on? Then the issue would be with the socket. It could be that it has burnt or melted, which prevents it from turning on during daytime and when the vehicle is in motion.
You might need to remove the old socket and install a new one to prevent the DRL warning light from activating.
#3. Clean or Change the Ambient Light Sensor.
If the problem is with the ambient light sensor, the easiest fix is to have it cleaned. Over time, the exposure to dust and dirt will make the sensor incapable of detecting the external environment.
Remove it from its current position and use a clean cloth to wipe the sensor. If this does not work, you might need to have a replacement.
#4. Change the Fuse.
When the fuse is blown, the DRL won’t turn on. In turn, the warning light will activate. If you are sure that the problem is with the fuse, then the quickest fix is to change such.
No Need for a Mechanic
You do not need a mechanic to do it for you. Plus, a fuse is inexpensive, so you can easily buy one. To replace the fuse as a DIY task, here’s what you should do:
- Start by turning off the engine and opening the hood. Find the fuse box in the compartment. The specific location can vary from one vehicle to another. In most cars, however, you will find it at the back of the battery.
- Take off the cover of the fuse box. Consult the manual if you are unsure of the specific location of the fuse box.
- Remove the fuse that connects to the DRL. Replace it with a new fuse and return the cover.
#5. Tighten the Electrical Connectors.
You do not need to replace the electrical connectors to fix the DRL warning light that has been consistently on. You might be able to fix the problem by simply tightening the connectors.
This will ensure a solid link to the DRL and power source. Tightening the electrical connector is easy by following these steps:
- Turn the engine off and get on the hood. Locate the DRL assembly. In most cars, you will find this in front of the engine compartment.
- Access the DRL assembly. Some cars might have a separate line for the DRL, while in others, you can find it in the same assembly as the headlights.
- Pull the electrical connector from the end of the assembly. If it feels loose or it comes out, tighten the assembly.
- Tug it again and see that it is already in a secure position. The connector is not the problem if the DRL warning light is on.
Again, what does the DRL warning light mean? When the DRL warning light is on, your car’s daytime running lights are currently ON and properly operating. Note that when your headlights are ON, the DRL indicator light should be OFF.
FAQs.
Q: Why did my DRL light come on?
In more technologically advanced cars, the running lights come alive by activating them on a computer sensor that senses ambient daylight.
The lights improve the visibility of your car by other vehicles if they are in their blind spots. DRL in Toyota cars usually comes on automatically without the driver making any input.
On the other hand, if the daytime running lights refuse to come on, then it could be that the headlight switch might be on, or it could be a wiring issue that would need to be addressed by an expert mechanic.
Q: Can you drive with daytime running lights?
Daytime running lights do not serve as the main lights of a vehicle but help other vehicles to be aware of you and not bump into your car.
It is therefore regarded as illegal to use daytime running lights in the place of headlights and taillights when they are not available or not functional.
DRL lights are not sufficient enough for night hours but are used in gloomy weather conditions. Vehicles require full light-emitting headlights to drive safely at night. Therefore, driving with daytime running lights when headlights are required will be regarded as a violation.
Q: What are the Safety Implications of a Malfunctioning DRL Light?
It is important to diagnose and repair a malfunctioning DRL light as soon as possible because it could lead to safety issues.
If a DRL light is not functioning properly, it could cause other components of the car’s safety system to malfunction. This could lead to poor visibility during the day, which could be a major hazard for both drivers and pedestrians.
It is important to properly diagnose and repair any issues with a DRL light in order to ensure the safety of yourself and other drivers.
In addition, a malfunctioning DRL light can also lead to decreased fuel efficiency. When the DRL light is not functioning properly, it can cause the car to use more fuel than necessary.
This can lead to higher fuel costs and increased emissions, which can be damaging to the environment. It is important to diagnose and repair any issues with a DRL light in order to ensure the safety of yourself and other drivers, as well as the environment.
Q: Do daytime running lights drain the battery?
The answer to this question is, no. These lights come on only when the engine has been turned on or activated, and go off when the ignition has been turned off.
DRL lights in Honda civic 2008 come on and off automatically and have low chances of running down the battery life of the vehicle.
This is unlike the headlights, which are the major lights of a vehicle, and consumes much of the battery strength. However, the daytime running lights could result in battery drainage when it stays on even when the vehicle has been turned off.
Q: Can DRL be turned off?
DRL lights have the ability to be turned off. However, vehicle users should be aware of the dangers in the action. The DRL lights aids users of the road to be observant of other vehicles while driving. It so enhances the vision of the driver while driving through low sunlight conditions.
What does the check DRL system mean on Honda civic? Usually, checking the “DRL system in Honda civic” means that your vehicle ignition is activated, but the brake light for parking was activated when you started the car.
Releasing the parking brake turns on the DRL lights and switches off the indicator. Then you’re good to drive.
Q: How do I turn off my daytime running lights?
To turn off your DRL lights, you simply pull at the e-brake lever. Even though the engine is turned on, the lights will remain off.
In turning off Toyota DRL which has the “DRL OFF” setting, it can be turned off by turning the knob controlling the headlight to “DRL OFF”.
You can as well turn off the DRL lights of your Honda odyssey by pulling the #27 fuse located on the driver’s seat panel, which will switch off the DRL lights.
Q: Can you drive without running lights?
It is not deemed illegal to driving the road without running lights. The lights are only meant to make your vehicle more visible for other drivers, and not necessarily to brighten the road before you.
Countries like the United States or the UK don’t even see the necessity of these lights. They do not think running lights by any means decrease road fatalities from happening.
However, it becomes necessary in foggy or rainy weather conditions, or when the atmosphere is clouded with dust particles or smoke to enhance the vision of our vehicle users.
Q: What color can daytime running lights be?
Daytime running lights have specific colors which they can come in. These colors include white, yellow, or ember.
No other colors outside these are allowed. More specifically, there is a clearly stated law that tagged it illegal for vehicle users to fix blue daytime running lights on their vehicles.
Users caught with blue running lights can go in for it. Using red-colored DRL lights in the
Honda accord is also illegal to be used in the front of a vehicle because red indicates an emergency and is used only by emergency vehicles. White DRL lights are recommended as the most recommended for car users.
Q: Do daytime running lights make my car use more fuel?
Not to any meaningful or degree. DRLs use low powered bulbs which in most cases are low-energy LED-type units.
LEDs use significantly less power than traditional halogen bulbs and the impact on your fuel consumption is negligible.
Government stats place the increased energy usage at around 0.5% for cars that still use the older non-LED bulbs. LEDs will be a fraction of that figure.
Conclusion
Daytime running lights serve valid purposes in the safe use of highways and other public roads and are most important while driving through tunnels or under bridges, or through the dusty atmosphere.
In a nutshell, the question of what does DRL means to a car can fish in lots of responses. As a safety precaution, do ensure you always keep your lights clean and free from particles like leaves or dust.
No doubt, daytime running lights, to a reasonable extent, enhance the use of roads by the vehicle owner and aim towards a smooth and easy ride.