How do you turn on daytime running lights on a Honda?
In most Honda models, daytime running lights (DRLs) activate automatically when the engine is running and the headlight switch is not set to full headlights. You usually don’t need to flick a separate DRL switch. If you want to verify or adjust DRL behavior, set the headlight control to Auto or On where available.
What Daytime Running Lights Do on Honda Vehicles
Daytime running lights are a safety feature that helps other drivers notice your car during daylight hours. On many modern Hondas, DRLs operate automatically and use the vehicle’s low beams at reduced intensity (or an automatic lighting mode) when daylight conditions prevail. Manual control is typically limited to the position of the exterior lighting switch.
Model Variations You Might Encounter
DRL behavior can vary by model year and trim. Some late-model Civics, Accords, CR-Vs, and HR-Vs rely on automatic DRL operation with no dedicated on/off switch, while others may offer a DRL setting in the vehicle’s settings menu. If your model includes a DRL option in Settings, you can adjust there to ensure DRLs are active in daylight or to customize their behavior.
Step-by-Step: Enabling Daytime Running Lights on Common Honda Setups
Follow these steps to ensure DRLs are active in daylight on many current Honda models. If your car differs, consult the owner’s manual for model-specific instructions.
- Start the engine or switch the vehicle to Ready; for hybrids, ensure the car is in Ready rather than completely off.
- Set the exterior lighting control to Auto or On. On most Hondas, Auto allows DRLs to operate automatically in daylight; On forces the headlights to stay on as needed.
- Check the instrument cluster for a DRL indicator or the headlight icon to confirm DRLs are active.
- If your model includes a DRL option in the vehicle’s settings, navigate to Settings > Vehicle > Lighting (or DRL) and confirm DRLs are enabled or set to Automatic.
- If DRLs still do not illuminate in daylight, verify there are no warning lights indicating a fault, ensure the parking brake is released, and inspect fuses or consult a dealer if necessary.
Conclusion: Following these steps should make DRLs active in daylight on most current Hondas. If you cannot enable DRLs via these steps, consult the owner’s manual for your exact year and model or contact a Honda dealership for model-specific guidance.
Troubleshooting and Safety Considerations
DRLs are a safety feature designed to improve daytime visibility. In some regions, they are legally required on new vehicles. Do not drive with DRLs completely off if your weather or conditions require high visibility; use the Auto setting or headlights as appropriate for safety.
- Verify the headlight switch position is not set to Off or Parking in situations where DRLs won't illuminate.
- Check whether the instrument panel shows a DRL icon; if not, the DRL feature may be disabled or not supported in your trim.
- Inspect the fuse and relay related to DRLs as listed in the owner's manual. If a fuse is blown, DRLs may not activate.
- If you suspect a fault, schedule a service appointment with a Honda dealer to diagnose the lighting system.
Closing: If DRLs still fail after troubleshooting, rely on professional service to avoid driving without essential daytime visibility features.
Summary
Most Honda models automatically handle daytime running lights; you generally do not need to turn them on manually. Use the Auto or On position of the headlight control and consult the owner's manual for model-specific behavior. When in doubt, your dealer can confirm the DRL setup for your exact model and year.
