How do I turn on daytime running lights on a Honda?
In most Honda models, daytime running lights (DRLs) turn on automatically when the engine is running and the headlights are not engaged. You typically don’t need to, and may not be able to, manually switch them on. If your model offers a DRL control in the vehicle’s settings, you can adjust it there. This guide explains the general behavior, how to check for control options, and troubleshooting steps.
Does your Honda have a DRL control you can adjust?
Many modern Hondas use automatic DRLs that cannot be toggled on or off with a physical switch. Some trims or markets provide a DRL option in the vehicle’s settings. The exact steps depend on your year, trim, and infotainment system. If you don’t see a DRL option in the menus, your DRLs are likely automatic and not user-adjustable.
Before you proceed, note that in most places DRLs are mandated by law and are designed to operate automatically when the engine is running and the headlights are not in full use. If you want to confirm the behavior, consult your owner’s manual for the DRL section and model-specific instructions.
If your model supports manual DRL control, follow these steps:
- Start the engine and ensure the ignition is in Run.
- On the display or instrument cluster, open Settings or Vehicle settings.
- Navigate to Daytime Running Lights (DRL) or a similar option.
- Select ON or Auto, depending on the options available for your model.
- Exit the menu and verify the DRLs are active when the engine is running with the headlights off.
Note: Not all Honda models include a DRL on/off switch. If you don’t see a DRL option in the settings, your car’s DRLs are likely automatic and cannot be manually disabled or enabled.
Troubleshooting: DRLs not turning on as expected
If your DRLs aren’t operating correctly, try the following checks. These apply to most Honda models and can help determine whether the issue is user-configured or a mechanical/electrical problem.
- Make sure the engine is running and the vehicle is in a state suitable for DRLs to activate (usually when the headlights are off and the engine is running).
- Check the headlight switch position. In some cars, DRLs require the switch to be in Auto or a non-illumination state for activation.
- Inspect fuses related to daytime running lights and the lighting system in the fuse box. Replace any blown fuses with the correct amperage as listed in the owner’s manual.
- Look for any DRL-specific warnings in the instrument cluster or on the driver information display. A fault code may indicate a bad DRL module or wiring issue.
- If the vehicle was recently serviced or had software updates, confirm that the DRL settings were not altered by a dealer or technician.
If you still cannot get DRLs to operate as expected, consult a Honda dealer or qualified technician for a diagnostic. Local laws may require DRLs, and disabling them can be illegal in some regions.
Model-specific notes and quick takeaways
DRL behavior can vary by model year and trim level. The following points summarize common patterns you might encounter on recent Honda models:
- Most Honda cars with the latest infotainment system auto-activate DRLs when the engine runs and lights are off.
- Some trims let you enable/disable DRLs via Settings > Vehicle > Daytime Running Lights, or the equivalent path on your display.
- DRLs typically switch off or are overridden when low beams are active or high beams are selected.
- There is generally no separate physical switch for DRLs on many modern Hondas; the control is software-based or automatic.
Always refer to your owner’s manual for model-specific instructions and cautions. Safety first: DRLs are designed to improve daytime visibility, and tampering with lighting systems can affect warranty or compliance with local laws.
Summary
Daytime running lights on Honda vehicles usually operate automatically and are not something you typically turn on manually. If your model supports a DRL setting, you can enable it through the vehicle’s settings menu; otherwise, ensure the engine is running and the headlight switch is in Auto or a non-illumination state to keep DRLs active. For any irregularities, consult your dealer or the manual.
What turns on daytime running lights?
It is automatically switched on when the vehicle's handbrake has been pulled down, when the vehicle is in gear, or when the engine is started, emitting white, yellow, or amber light. Their intended use is not to help the driver see the road or their surroundings, but to help other road users identify an active vehicle.
How do you turn on daytime running lights on a Honda?
Daytime Running Lights turn on automatically after the engine is turned on and the parking brake is fully released. They make it easier for other drivers and pedestrians to detect the approaching vehicle during daylight hours.
Why don't my daytime running lights come on?
If your daytime running lights (DRLs) are not working, the most common causes are a blown fuse, a bad bulb, or a faulty ambient light sensor. Less common issues include problems with the DRL module, wiring damage, or a malfunctioning light switch. Start by checking the fuse and bulbs, then consider the sensor, and if the problem persists, look into the DRL module.
This video demonstrates how to check and replace daytime running light fuses and bulbs: 57s2CarProsYouTube · Feb 23, 2016
1. Check the simple things first
- Check the fuse: Find your vehicle's fuse box (there may be more than one) and look for the fuse(s) labeled for DRLs. Visually inspect it for a break in the wire, and if you find one, replace it with a new one of the same amperage.
- Inspect the bulbs: If only one DRL is out, the bulb is the most likely culprit. If both are out, they could both have failed simultaneously, but a blown fuse is more likely. A burnt filament or a dark bulb indicates it's time for a replacement.
- Check the ambient light sensor: This is a small, dome-like sensor, usually on the dashboard. To test it, cover the sensor completely with your hand. Your headlights should turn on. If they do, the sensor is likely working. If the headlights don't turn on, the sensor may be faulty or the DRLs may be disabled in your car's settings.
2. Investigate more complex issues
- Test the DRL module: If the fuse and bulbs are fine, the DRL module may be the issue. A faulty module can prevent the lights from turning on or off, or even cause them to stay on when they shouldn't. Some modules are relatively inexpensive and can be replaced by a DIYer.
- Examine the wiring and sockets: Check the bulb sockets for corrosion or damage, as this can interrupt the circuit. If the fuse is fine and the bulbs are new, a wiring issue could be the cause, particularly if the problem started after a recent electrical component replacement.
- Check vehicle settings: Some modern vehicles have DRL settings that can be adjusted or disabled in the infotainment system. Check your settings menu to ensure the DRLs are enabled and try toggling the setting off and on a few times to see if it resets them.
What is the DRL symbol on a Honda?
Daytime Running Light (DRL) Light
Another one of the Honda dashboard warning lights/symbols that points to a broken bulb; this light means that one or more DRLs have malfunctioned or are broken.
