Daytime running lights

Universal daytime running lights are intended for marking the vehicle on the road during daylight hours with a dimmed light. They consume no more than one-third of the energy consumed by low-beam headlights. Since 2011, they have been in the standard configuration of manufactured cars and small commercial vehicles in the European Union, and since 2012 in that of trucks and buses as well.

Operating principle

In most cases, DRLs may be installed even if the car wasn’t equipped with them from the factory. However, one should first make sure that the vehicle design permits this. They are integrated into the wiring of the marker lights or low-beam headlights. They may also be connected to the battery directly, provided that a control unit is included.

When the ignition key is turned, voltage is supplied to the DRLs through an auxiliary relay. They are automatically disabled when the low-beam headlights are engaged.

Types of available daytime running lights

By shape:

• Rectangular. The products involve the use of flexible strips with LED elements, each in their own housing. They are typically mounted in the bumper or the radiator grille.
• Round. These can either be LED strips or conventional incandescent bulbs. These are generally installed in place of the front fog lights.
• Shaped. These consist of several LED elements and often follow the profile of the front bumper or the headlights. They give the vehicle a futuristic look.

By the type of light source:

• With incandescent bulbs. During operation, they overheat and often burn out. These are offered at a low price.
• With LEDs. These consume little power and have a long service life. They tend to be more expensive.

By housing material:

• Plastic. These DRLs are lightweight and affordable. At the same time, they are fragile and prone to overheating.
• Metal. These are made of an aluminium alloy. They efficiently dissipate heat and are expensive.

By mounting method:

• Bracket. These are securely attached while the angle of inclination may be adjusted.
• Double-sided tape. These require no additional holes. However, they may peel off over time.

Recommendations for using daytime running lights

• The installation requirements vary from country to country. Therefore, be sure to check current legislation.
• Set the inclination angles: 200 degrees horizontally and 100 degrees vertically.
• Look for DRLs with white light to save energy and make your vehicle more visible on the road.
• If you install the DRLs yourself, observe the correct polarity.
• Check the equipment periodically in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.

AUTODOC: easy online shopping

In our online shop, you can always buy DRLs at bargain prices. The specialists from our support service will help you to place an online order quickly so that you can receive the package as soon as possible.