Why is my DRL light on in my Honda Accord?

If the Daytime Running Lights (DRL) indicator light is illuminated on your Honda Accord, it typically indicates that the DRL system is functioning as intended. The DRL light serves as a visual confirmation that the DRL feature is active and helping to improve the visibility of your vehicle during daylight hours.

What are Daytime Running Lights?

Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) are automatic lights that turn on when the vehicle is in operation, even during the day. They are designed to make your vehicle more visible to other drivers, enhancing road safety. DRLs are a standard feature on many modern vehicles, including the Honda Accord.

Why is the DRL Light On?

The DRL light on your Honda Accord is illuminated to let you know that the DRL system is active and functioning correctly. This light serves as a visual indicator that the DRL feature is turned on and your vehicle's front lights are illuminated, even during daylight hours.

Is the DRL Light Supposed to Be On?

Yes, the DRL light on your Honda Accord is supposed to be illuminated when the DRL system is active. This is a normal and expected behavior, and it does not indicate any issues with your vehicle's electrical system or lighting components.

Can I Turn Off the DRL Light?

While you cannot directly turn off the DRL light, you can disable the DRL system in your Honda Accord if you prefer not to have the lights on during the day. This can be done through the vehicle's settings or by consulting your owner's manual for the specific instructions.

In summary, the illuminated DRL light on your Honda Accord is a normal and expected indicator that the Daytime Running Lights feature is active and functioning as intended. Unless you experience any other issues with your vehicle's lighting or electrical system, the DRL light should not be a cause for concern.

How do you turn off the DRL light on a Honda?

Here. Boom they are temporary. Off now once you put the vehicle. Into drive and you get moving when the vehicle's in motion your daytime.

What causes the DRL light to come on?

The DRL (daytime running light) light comes on when there's a problem with the system, which is most commonly caused by a burned-out bulb, a blown fuse, or issues with the wiring and electrical connections. Other less common causes include a malfunctioning ambient light sensor or a faulty control module, which the vehicle's computer can detect, triggering the warning light. 
This video explains what the DRL system is and how to fix the warning light: 1mAnother LapYouTube · Feb 20, 2025
Common causes

• Burnt-out bulbs: This is one of the most frequent reasons for the DRL light to come on. The warning light often indicates that a bulb has failed. 
• Blown fuse: A blown fuse can interrupt the power supply to the DRLs, causing the light to illuminate. 
• Wiring and connection problems:
  • Damaged wires: Frayed or damaged wires can disrupt the electrical flow to the DRLs. 
  • Corrosion: Corrosion on the connectors can cause a poor connection and trigger the warning light. 
• Faulty sensors: Some DRL systems are controlled by an ambient light sensor. If this sensor malfunctions or gets dirty, it can incorrectly report a problem, causing the DRL light to turn on, especially during daylight hours. 
• Control module or relay issues: Problems with the DRL control module or a faulty relay can cause the system to malfunction, and the vehicle's computer will often detect this and turn on the warning light. 
• Incorrect LED bulb installation: If you've recently switched to LED bulbs, the system may trigger the warning light because LEDs use less power and the computer interprets this as a bulb failure. 

This video explains how to diagnose DRL problems: 44s1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics KnowYouTube · Jun 9, 2021
What to do

• First, check the bulbs: Inspect all DRL bulbs to see if any are burnt out. Replacing a burnt-out bulb is often the simplest fix. 
• Check for simple issues: Make sure the light sensor isn't blocked or dirty. Also, check the fuses related to the DRL system. 
• Use a scan tool: If the problem isn't obvious, a mechanic can use a diagnostic scan tool to pull up error codes, which can pinpoint the exact issue in the system. 
• Consult a mechanic: If you've checked the basics and the light is still on, it's best to have a professional diagnose and fix the problem to ensure the system is working correctly and safely. 

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.

What does DRL light mean on a Honda Accord?

The DRL light on a Honda Accord means there is an issue with the Daytime Running Lights (DRL) system, most commonly a burnt-out bulb on one of the front lights. Other potential causes include wiring problems, a faulty sensor, a blown fuse, or issues after installing non-factory LED bulbs. The system automatically turns on the DRLs when the car is on and the parking brake is disengaged to make the vehicle more visible during the day. 
This video explains how to check your DRL system: 59sMODS FOREVERYouTube · Apr 20, 2018
Common reasons for the DRL light

• Burnt-out bulb: This is the most frequent cause. One of the DRL bulbs has likely failed and needs to be replaced. 
• Incorrect LED bulb installation: If you have recently installed LED bulbs, the DRL light may illuminate because LEDs draw less power than standard bulbs. The system may not detect the bulb, or it may trigger a code if the LED is not plugged in correctly. 
• Wiring issues: The DRL system uses wiring to power the lights. Damaged, corroded, or disconnected wires can disrupt the circuit and trigger the warning light. 
• Faulty sensor: A malfunctioning ambient light sensor, which helps control the DRLs, can send a false signal, causing the light to turn on. Covering the sensor may make the light disappear, confirming this issue. 
• Blown fuse: A blown fuse in the DRL circuit can cause the system to malfunction and trigger the warning light. 

This video shows how to replace a burnt-out DRL bulb: 1mAnother LapYouTube · Feb 20, 2025
What to do when the DRL light is on

• Inspect the DRL bulbs: Turn off the car and check both daytime running light bulbs to see if one is burnt out. 
• Install a CANbus decoder: If you installed LED bulbs and the light came on, you likely need to add a CANbus decoder to the circuit to draw enough power for the system to recognize the bulbs. 
• Check fuses: Look at your vehicle's fuse box for any blown fuses related to the DRL system. 
• Contact a professional: If you have checked the bulbs and fuses and the problem persists, there may be a wiring or sensor issue. It is best to have a mechanic inspect the vehicle to prevent potential problems and ensure the system is working correctly.