What is the DRL light on my Honda dashboard?
DRL stands for Daytime Running Lights. The DRL indicator on your Honda’s dashboard shows the status of that system—whether the daytime running lights are active and, in some cases, alerts you to a fault requiring service.
How daytime running lights work in Honda vehicles
In Honda vehicles, daytime running lights are designed to improve daytime visibility. They are typically activated automatically in daylight, using a reduced-intensity lighting setup. The dash indicator provides a quick reference to whether the DRL system is currently engaged or if there’s a malfunction. Behavior can vary by model and year, and some trims allow you to adjust DRL behavior through the vehicle settings or the headlight switch.
For examples of model-specific behavior, consult your owner’s manual, as Honda often updates DRL implementation between generations.
The following points summarize how DRLs and their indicators generally work on many Honda models:
- DRL stands for Daytime Running Lights, a safety feature that helps other road users see your car in daylight.
- The dash DRL icon typically lights up when DRLs are active; in some models, it may illuminate to indicate a DRL fault if the icon changes color or starts flashing.
- DRLs are separate from your headlight switch; in many Hondas, turning on headlights or selecting Auto may change DRL behavior (for example, DRLs may dim or turn off when headlights are on).
- If the DRL indicator stays on, or you notice reduced lighting or a bulb failure warning, there could be a burned-out DRL bulb, a blown fuse, or a faulty relay.
In summary, the DRL indicator helps you know the status of daytime running lights and can signal a fault that needs attention.
What to do if the DRL light behaves oddly
When the DRL light shows an unusual pattern or stays on when it shouldn’t, follow a diagnostic checklist to determine whether you can fix it yourself or need service.
- Check the headlight switch and any DRL-related settings in the vehicle’s information display or owner’s manual to confirm how DRLs should behave in your trim.
- Inspect DRL bulbs or LEDs if your model uses replaceable bulbs; some Hondas use LEDs that aren’t serviceable in the field, in which case you’d contact a dealer for a module replacement.
- Check the fuses labeled for DRL or exterior lighting in the engine compartment fuse box; replace blown fuses if you have a spare of the same rating.
- Consider a professional diagnostic if the warning light is on steady or flashing, or if DRLs seem dim or not present, as this can indicate a fault in the DRL system or a related component.
Routine checks and timely service can prevent long-term issues, since DRLs contribute to daytime visibility and safety.
Notes for different Honda models
Because Honda applies DRL implementation across different models and model years, the exact icon shape, color, and behavior can differ. Always consult the owner’s manual for your specific model (Civic, Accord, CR-V, Pilot, etc.) to understand the DRL icon and how to configure DRL settings.
Common icons you might encounter include a small headlamp symbol with lines indicating light, sometimes accompanied by the letters DRL, or a generic lighting icon. If you see a warning-style symbol associated with exterior lights, treat it as a fault and have the system checked by a Honda technician.
Summary
DRL stands for Daytime Running Lights. The dashboard DRL indicator tells you whether those lights are functioning as designed or if there’s a fault in the system. Behavior varies by model and year, so refer to your owner’s manual for exact icons and settings. Regular checks of bulbs, fuses, and the light switch can help maintain proper DRL operation and, by extension, daytime visibility on the road.
