Why does my Honda say DRL?

DRL stands for Daytime Running Lights. If you see “DRL” on your Honda’s dash or instrument cluster, it usually means the daytime running lights are active or the DRL system is indicating its status. In daylight, this is typically normal, but a warning or malfunction can appear if a bulb, fuse, or control circuit has an issue.

What DRL is and how Honda uses it

Daytime Running Lights are a safety feature designed to keep the vehicle visible in daylight hours. Honda uses either dedicated DRL bulbs/LEDs or the existing low-beam headlights configured to run at a reduced intensity during the day. In most Hondas, the DRL system operates automatically when the engine is running and the exterior lighting controls are in Auto or On, and the dash may display the DRL indicator to show the system is active or to remind you of its status.

DRL configurations by model and market

Honda's DRL setup can vary by model, trim, and region. Some cars use separate DRL bulbs that illuminate during the day; others use the left and right low-beam headlights as DRLs. In cars with LED daytime running lights, the module may be integrated into the headlight assembly. Availability and the ability to disable DRL (where permitted by law) depend on the model year and market.

DRL vs. regular headlights

DRLs are intended to be on during daytime driving and run at a lower intensity than standard headlight low beams. They help other drivers see your vehicle without using full headlights. They are not a substitute for headlights at night or in poor conditions, and some models can switch to normal headlights when it gets dark or when you turn on the parking/low-beam lights.

Common scenarios where you might see DRL on the dash

Understanding the typical reasons you might see the DRL label or icon helps you distinguish normal operation from a fault.

• The car is in daylight and the DRL system is active by default; you may notice the DRL indicator on the dash or the headlights themselves are lit at a lower brightness.


• You have the headlight switch set to Auto; the system is using DRLs during the day but will switch to full low beams as conditions change.


• One or both DRL bulbs are burnt out or a fuse related to the DRL circuit has blown; in this case the DRL indicator may warn of a fault.


• A faulty DRL sensor or control module, or a wiring issue, triggers a warning message on the dash.

In most cases, seeing DRL during daytime is normal, but a warning or a noticeable change in behavior—such as DRLs not lighting when expected—warrants a check with a technician.

What to do if you have a DRL warning or problem

If the DRL indicator is accompanied by a warning light or you notice DRLs not operating properly, consider these steps to diagnose and address the issue.

• Verify the headlight switch is in Auto or On and that it is daytime; DRLs are typically active in daylight. If it’s dark, DRLs may not engage.


• Inspect the DRL fuses and relays in the fuse box. Look for a fuse labeled DRL or related to the exterior lighting circuit. Replace if blown and consult your owner’s manual for the correct amperage.


• Check DRL bulbs or LEDs (if accessible) for signs of burnout; some Hondas use separate DRL bulbs that can be replaced individually.


• If the bulbs and fuses are intact, a service bulletin or software update may be needed; schedule a diagnostic with a Honda dealer or qualified shop.

Given the electrical nature of DRLs, some repairs require professional service to ensure compatibility with your vehicle’s electrical system and compliance with local lighting regulations.

What to expect during service

When taking your Honda in for a DRL issue, technicians typically start with a visual inspection, check for blown fuses, test the DRL circuit with diagnostic tools, and verify software settings. In some cases, an update to the body control module or headlight controller is required, or a bulb/assembly replacement is necessary.

Regular maintenance and prompts from the owner’s manual can help prevent DRL issues; keep an eye on any changes in lighting behavior and address them promptly.

Summary

DRL stands for Daytime Running Lights, a safety feature used during daytime driving. Seeing the DRL indicator on a Honda’s dash is usually normal, but it can signal a fault if the lights fail to operate or a warning appears. Understanding how DRLs work on your model and performing routine checks on bulbs, fuses, and switch settings can help you determine whether the message is routine or requires service. When in doubt, consult a dealer or certified technician.

The information above reflects common practice across many Honda models as of 2024-2025. Vehicle features can vary by year, trim, and market, so consult your owner's manual or a local dealer for model-specific guidance.

Can you drive with a DRL light on?

Daytime running lights should only be on while you're driving during the daytime – the clue is in the name with this one! At night, daytime running lights should automatically turn off when you activate your headlights.

How to turn DRL off on Honda?

To turn off the DRLs on a Honda, set the headlight switch to the "Off" or "Auto" position and then turn the vehicle off and on again with the parking brake engaged. The specific method can vary by model, so check your owner's manual for the correct procedure for your vehicle.
 
Method 1: Adjust the light switch and parking brake 
This method works for many modern Honda models and is temporary. 

1. Engage the parking brake: With the vehicle in park, engage the electronic or manual parking brake. 
2. Turn off the engine: Turn off the engine completely. 
3. Start the engine: Start the engine again while in park. The DRLs should remain off as long as the parking brake is engaged. 
4. To restore DRLs: Disengage the parking brake. The DRLs will turn on automatically. 

This video demonstrates how to turn off DRLs on a 2025 Honda Odyssey: 1mCrazy Honda ChrisYouTube · Oct 3, 2024
Method 2: Use the headlight switch 
Some models have a simple switch to disable the DRLs. 

1. Locate the switch: Find the light control stalk on the steering column. 
2. Select the "Off" position: Rotate the switch to the "Off" position. This will turn off the DRLs. 
3. Note on newer models: Some newer models, like the 2019 Civic, do not have a permanent "Off" position and the DRLs will turn back on when the vehicle is put in motion. 

This video shows how to turn off DRLs on a 2025 Honda Civic: 55sCrazy Honda ChrisYouTube · Sep 23, 2024
Method 3: Pull the fuse 
If the above methods don't work for your vehicle, you can disable the DRLs by removing the corresponding fuse. 

1. Locate the fuse panel: This is usually under the dashboard on the driver's side. 
2. Find the correct fuse: Consult your owner's manual or look for a fuse labeled "DRL" or "Daytime Running Lights". 
3. Remove the fuse: Use a fuse puller to remove the fuse. 

This video demonstrates how to pull the DRL fuse on a 2013-2014 Honda Accord: 59sKLEANTRIXYouTube · Dec 11, 2014
Important considerations

• Check your owner's manual: The specific method for disabling DRLs can vary depending on your Honda's year and model. Always consult your owner's manual for the correct procedure. 
• Safety: Daytime running lights are a safety feature designed to make your vehicle more visible. Some states require them to be on at all times. Be sure you understand the implications before disabling them permanently. 

Why is my DRL light on in my Honda?

The DRL warning light will usually illuminate when there is a problem with the car's daytime running lamps or other important components of the vehicle's safety system.

What does it mean if my car says DRL?

DRL on a car stands for Daytime Running Lights, which are lights that automatically turn on when the engine is running to make the vehicle more visible to others during the day. They are different from headlights, as their purpose is to help other drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians see the vehicle, not to illuminate the road ahead for the driver.
 
Key features of DRLs:

• Automatic operation: DRLs typically turn on automatically when the engine is started or the vehicle is in gear, and they don't require manual activation. 
• Increased visibility: They are a safety feature designed to increase the vehicle's visibility to other road users during daylight hours. 
• Lower intensity: DRLs are usually less bright than standard headlights and can be powered by low-intensity headlights, dedicated lights, or even turn signal lights. 
• Indicator light: A DRL symbol on the dashboard indicates that the system is active. A blinking symbol may suggest a malfunction and should be checked.