‘Can I switch off my car’s daytime running lights?’ [Newbie Guide]

Automotive features that were once considered within the realm of pricier models are now being democratized. That is, they’re finding their way to other cars as well, especially those that belong to a certain price point. Niceties such as engine start buttons, touchscreen head units, and anti-lock brakes can now be found even on economy offerings. 

Features previously exclusive to more expensive cars are now more widely available

An inadvertent consequence of this development is that new car owners might not immediately understand what a certain feature is for. Take daytime running lights or DRLs, for instance.

Many of us are used to the notion of a car’s exterior lights engaging only on demand, such as in dark conditions (for headlamps) or when braking (for taillamps). Something like a DRL that’s continuously shining sparks concerns over the car’s battery life, and even prompts questions as to how to turn them off. 

DRLs are exterior devices used for visibility. To be more precise, they’re intended to make your car more visible to other road users and help them identify your car as an active vehicle during the day, as the headlamps and taillamps already do the job at night. DRLs were first implemented in Scandinavian countries, where the winter season often results in dark surroundings even during daylight hours. 

Daytime running lights or DRLs make your car more visible during daytime driving

At first, DRLs were nothing more than the car’s actual headlamps that have been turned on in low-beam mode. Over time, the DRL evolved into a standalone feature. In many models, the DRL engages as soon as the engine is switched on, emitting a bright light that is slightly dimmed when the headlamps are activated. DRLs are primarily a safety feature and are directly powered by the engine, which means they’re not intended to be turned off by the user while the vehicle is in operation. 

Carmakers have been developing progressively brighter yet more efficient DRLs for their cars, especially as the feature has become mandatory in many developed markets. The less power a DRL consumes, the less emissions a combustion engine emits. This explains the popularity of LEDs for use in DRL systems, as they are energy-efficient and highly visible even under direct sunlight. 

The last thing you want to happen to you on the road

The next time you see your DRLs light up on your car, keep in mind that they’re there to keep you safe every time you’re out on the road. If your model doesn’t come equipped with these, you can use your headlamps or fog lamps as improvised DRLs, or even turn to the many aftermarket options available.

Find more tips for beginner car owners at Philkotse.com.