Daytime Running Lamps Malfunction

Daytime Running Lamps Malfunction

Diagnostic Instructions

* Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle (Initial Inspection and Diagnostic Overview) prior to using this diagnostic procedure.
* Review Strategy Based Diagnosis (Initial Inspection and Diagnostic Overview) for an overview of the diagnostic approach.
* Diagnostic Procedure Instructions (Initial Inspection and Diagnostic Overview) provides an overview of each diagnostic category.



Circuit/System Description

The ambient light sensor is used to monitor outside lighting conditions. The body control module (BCM) provides a 5-volt reference signal to the ambient light sensor. The sensor is a variable resistor, it's resistance changes as outside lighting conditions changes. With the headlamp switch in the AUTO position, the BCM monitors the sensor signal circuit to determine if the outside lighting conditions are correct for either daytime running lamps (DRL) or headlamp low beam operation. In daylight conditions, the BCM will command the DRLs ON. In low light conditions, the BCM will command the low beam headlamps ON.


Reference Information
Schematic Reference

Exterior Lights Schematics (Exterior Lights Schematics)
Connector End View Reference

Component Connector End Views (Connector Views)
Description and Operation

Exterior Lighting Systems Description and Operation (Exterior Lighting Systems Description and Operation)
Electrical Information Reference

* Circuit Testing (Component Tests and General Diagnostics)
* Connector Repairs (Component Tests and General Diagnostics)
* Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections (Component Tests and General Diagnostics)
* Wiring Repairs (Component Tests and General Diagnostics)

Scan Tool Reference

Control Module References (Programming and Relearning) for scan tool information


Circuit/System Testing

1. Ignition OFF, disconnect the harness connector at the ambient light sensor.
2. Ignition OFF, test for less than 5 ohms between the appropriate low reference circuit listed below and ground.

* Terminal B (with C60)
* Terminal C (with C68)


• If greater than the specified range, test the low reference circuit for an open/high resistance.

3. Ignition ON, verify the scan tool Ambient Light Sensor parameter is greater than 4.65 volts.

• If less than the specified range, test the signal circuit for a short to ground. If the circuit tests normal, replace the BCM.

4. Install a 3A fused jumper wire between the appropriate signal circuit and the low reference listed below. Verify the scan tool Ambient Light Sensor parameter is less than 0.196 volts.

* Terminal A and terminal B (with C60)
* Terminal D and terminal C (with C68)


• If greater than the specified range, test the signal circuit for a short to voltage or an open/high resistance. If the circuit tests normal, replace the BCM.

5. If all circuits test normal, test or replace the ambient light sensor.



Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification (Verification Tests) after completing the diagnostic procedure.

* Ambient Light Sensor Replacement (Service and Repair)
* Control Module References (Programming and Relearning) for BCM replacement, setup, and programming