Daytime Running Lights: Why are they installed in your Car?

You use headlights while driving at night when it is difficult to see the road. Taillights are essential to allow other drivers to ascertain the shape and size of your vehicle. But visibility can be compromised even during daytime. In certain conditions such as fog, rain and snow, it becomes difficult to identify oncoming cars. And, if drivers cannot ascertain the presence of your vehicle, it can mean fatal accidents.

Daytime Running Lights to your Rescue!

To tackle the issue, a new lighting system came into being called the daytime running lights or DRLs. They are located in the front of the vehicle and emit a low-intensity light strong enough to manifest your car to other drivers on the road. Do not confuse DRLs with actual headlights. Unlike headlights, they automatically turn on as soon as you switch on the car’s engine.

Different cars have different types of DRLs. Few vehicles use the reduced intensity high beam headlights or low beam headlights. Others use dedicated DRLs for better performance and reduction in fuel consumption. Many auto manufacturers now use LED DRLs to give a statement look to their models.

How DRLs ensure your Safety on the Road?

Since the introduction of DRLs in the 1970s, many studies show marginal improvement in safety due to the existence of the automatic lighting system in vehicles. It is important to remember that DRLs are most efficient in regions where it gets pretty dark. In America, a country with a relatively sunny environment, the benefits of DRLs are not very prominent. But it doesn’t mean that they are not useful.

1. DRLs help other people on the road to perceive your car quickly.
2. Because other drivers can see you properly, it gives them more time to react.
3. In the end, it helps in the reduction of car collisions.

Many critics of DRLs argue the very existence of the lights. However, you cannot always use headlights during foggy hours of the day just to alert other drivers and pedestrians. If you keep the headlights switched on, the bulbs will burn out quickly and the power consumption will rise. On the other hand, daytime running lights consume less power and do not blind approaching drivers.

DRLs: Tips to keep them running for a very Long Time

As DRLs do not help a car driver with his visibility on the road, they are often ignored. But, remember that the lights can play a role in keeping you safe. So, make sure that you regularly inspect them along with other lighting systems of your vehicle.

The issue of daytime running lamps staying on even while the ignition is turned off is common. Continuous illumination can shorten the life of the bulbs and housing. Also, it will drain the battery. So, check the wiring circuit to solve the issue. Loose connections and short circuits in the DRL module can prevent the bulbs from functioning properly. Even, a constant burning smell manifests a problem with the lighting system. If you feel that the daytime running lights are not working to the optimum level, it is best to let a mechanic inspect them.

Many aftermarket DRL bulbs and lighting kits are available online. They help you in upgrading DRLs and give you a chance to make use of advanced LED bulbs and HID bulbs in your vehicle. If the old bulbs have blown out or do not give bright light, it is best to upgrade them.

Upgrade the daytime running lights on your car to LED. Underground Lighting has a wide range of DRL lights including 9005 LED DRL-Headlight Kit and H11 LED DRL Kit. Choose your pick and get ready to illuminate your car in style.

Whether it is a powerful muscle car or a stylish convertible, cars have always been a passion for me. Working as the Business Development Head at Underground Lighting is more than a job for me. Bringing amazing and innovative automotive lighting tech