When you think about car safety features, Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) might not be the first thing you think of.
But these simple lights are important for reducing accidents during the day by making your car easier to see. They turn on automatically, so you don’t have to worry about switching them on yourself.
Ever wondered how they’re installed and how much it costs? It’s also interesting to learn about the rules and standards that apply to DRLs.
Curious about how these lights can affect your driving?
Quick Navigation
Overview and Benefits
Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) are a key safety feature in cars that help make vehicles more visible during the day. They turn on automatically when you start the car, cutting down daytime crashes by 5-10%.
DRLs work well in low light conditions, helping other drivers and pedestrians see your car better. Using energy-saving LEDs, they also use less fuel than regular headlights.
DRLs are required by law in places like Canada and are standard in new cars around the world.
Which Car Systems are Benfifitted the most from Daytime Running Lights (DRL)
Daytime Running Lights (DRL) primarily enhance vehicle visibility during the day, benefiting various safety and driving components.
Adaptive Headlight systems, which adjust beam direction based on vehicle movement, work in synergy with DRLs to improve visibility, especially in low-light conditions.
Blind spot monitoring and Lane departure warning systems also benefit from DRLs by increasing the vehicle’s overall visibility to other drivers and reducing the risk of collisions from the sides or when changing lanes.
ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), including AEB (Autonomous Emergency Braking), also rely on the enhanced visibility provided by DRLs to detect potential hazards more effectively.
Backup camera systems, while typically used for reversing, also benefit from the improved lighting conditions in low-light environments created by DRLs, aiding in driver awareness.
The inclusion of DRLs often improves vehicle Crash Test Ratings, as they contribute to preventing collisions through increased visibility.
Parking Sensors and Parking Assist functions, which help drivers manoeuvre in tight spaces, are indirectly supported by DRLs, as they provide better awareness of the vehicle’s surroundings during daylight hours.
Additionally, vehicles equipped with Hybrid powertrain systems, which often focus on energy efficiency, benefit from DRLs by maintaining visibility without significant energy consumption, thanks to their efficient design.
Overall, DRLs contribute to the functionality of various safety systems, enhancing visibility and improving a vehicle’s overall safety profile.
Installation and Costs
Installing Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) can differ a lot in price and difficulty. You can buy DRL kits for anywhere between $50 to $200.
If you want a professional to install them, it could cost you about $750, which covers both the labor and any needed changes to the electrical system.
Many cars already have DRLs that turn on by themselves.
If you decide to install them yourself, you need to know how to handle wiring and follow safety rules. Doing it right ensures everything works well and stays legal.
Regulations and Standards
Navigating the rules and standards for Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) means understanding the specific requirements in different regions.
In Canada, DRLs have been mandatory since 1990.
In the European Union, new vehicles must follow Directive 2008/89/EC since 2011.
In the United States, DRLs are allowed but not required.
Meeting these rules ensures the best visibility, following ECE regulations in the EU and FMVSS 108 in the U.S.
Pros and Cons
Looking at the pros and cons of Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) involves understanding how they affect vehicle safety and efficiency.
DRLs help other drivers see you better, which can lower daytime crash rates by 5-10%. They also make your car look nicer.
But, bright DRLs can use more fuel, and some people might forget to turn on their headlights when it’s not very bright out.
Also, some studies say DRLs aren’t as useful in very sunny conditions.
