Daytime Running Lamp: Description and Operation

Daytime running lamps (DRL) are standard on all automobiles sold in Canada. The Daytime Running Lamps improve the visibility of the vehicle when viewed from the front in daylight. The normal DRL system utilizes low beam headlamps at reduced voltage supplied by a DRL control module located in the instrument panel. Ambient light is sensed by a photo sensor near the defroster outlets.

Applying the parking brake before turning on the ignition will override the DRL feature. With the ignition on and the parking brake off, the DRL's are fully active and unaffected by any further operation of the park brake. A DRL indicator in the "P cluster alerts the driver to DRL system operation when the ignition is on and the ambient light level is low and headlights should be on, such as at dusk.