In most modern vehicles, daytime running lights (DRLs) turn on automatically when the engine is running and the exterior lighting is set to Auto or On. If yours doesn’t light up automatically, you can usually enable them via the vehicle’s lighting controls or its infotainment settings.
What DRLs are and why they matter
Daytime running lights are lower‑intensity lights that stay on during daylight hours to improve a vehicle’s visibility to other road users. They’re designed to supplement, not replace, low beams and are widely used around the world for safety. In many regions DRLs are encouraged or mandated by law, which is why you’ll often see them on newer cars even if you never manually switch a light on.
Where to find the DRL controls
DRL controls vary by make and model. Some cars light them automatically; others require you to switch the exterior lights to Auto or On, or to enable a DRL option in a settings menu on the instrument cluster or center display.
Step-by-step: How to activate daytime running lights
Use this general sequence for cars that don’t automatically enable DRLs, or if the feature has been turned off in settings. Procedures vary, so check your owner’s manual for model-specific steps.
- Turn on the ignition and start the engine, or set the ignition to the ON position if required by your vehicle.
- Set the exterior light control to Auto or On, depending on what your car uses for DRL operation.
- If your car has a dedicated DRL switch, locate it on the stalk, dash, or center console and switch DRL to On.
- If DRLs are controlled through a menu, open the instrument cluster or infotainment system and enable Daytime Running Lights in Settings > Lighting or similar.
- Verify DRLs are on by checking the front-end lighting in daylight; you may also see a DRL indicator in the dashboard.
Concluding: On the majority of current vehicles, DRLs are either automatic or easily toggled via a switch or menu. If they don’t light up, consult the manual or dealer for model-specific guidance.
Troubleshooting DRLs
If DRLs won’t activate after following the steps above, try these commonly effective checks. Some cars automatically disable DRLs in heavy traffic or when high beams are manually engaged.
- Ensure the ignition is on and the light switch is not in Off or Parking mode.
- Look for a DRL setting in the vehicle’s menu and enable it if present.
- Check fuses or the DRL circuit for faults; some DRLs use dedicated bulbs or LEDs with separate wiring.
- Restart the vehicle’s infotainment or electrical systems if your car supports a reset.
- If recently serviced, verify that DRL wiring or software wasn’t altered during maintenance.
Concluding: If DRLs still do not illuminate, a technician can diagnose issues with the lighting control module, CAN bus software, or wiring.
Regional notes and legal considerations
DRLs are common in many regions, with varying requirements. In Europe and many Asian markets, DRLs are mandatory on most new cars; in the United States, DRLs are often standard but are not universally required by law. Always follow local regulations and the vehicle’s manual.
Summary
Daytime running lights typically activate automatically when the engine is running and the lighting control is set to Auto or On. If not, you can usually turn them on via a dedicated switch or through the vehicle’s settings menu. For model-specific steps, consult the owner’s manual or contact a dealer.