Daytime Running Lights (DRL) Repair Cost Guide
Here's a breakdown of common DRL repairs and their typical costs:
Bulb Replacement
Labor Time:0.5 - 1 hour
Labor Cost:$62.50 - $125
Parts Cost:$10 - $30 per bulb
Total Cost:$72.50 - $155
LED Module Replacement
Labor Time:1 - 2 hours
Labor Cost:$125 - $250
Parts Cost:$150 - $400
Total Cost:$275 - $650
DRL Control Module Replacement
Labor Time:1 - 1.5 hours
Labor Cost:$125 - $187.50
Parts Cost:$100 - $300
Total Cost:$225 - $487.50
Wiring Repair
Labor Time:1 - 3 hours
Labor Cost:$125 - $375
Parts Cost:$20 - $50
Total Cost:$145 - $425
Note: Prices may vary depending on vehicle make and model. Luxury vehicles typically fall on the higher end of these ranges. These are estimated costs and actual prices may vary based on specific vehicle requirements and conditions.
Daytime Running Lights (DRL) Repair Procedures
1. Bulb Replacement
The most common DRL repair:
- Access the bulb housing- typically through the engine compartment or wheel well
- Remove the old bulb- carefully disconnect the wiring harness and remove the burnt-out bulb
- Install new bulb- avoid touching the glass with bare hands; use gloves
- Test functionality- before reassembling completely
Average repair time: 30-60 minutes
2. Wiring Repair
For electrical issues:
- Diagnostic testing- use multimeter to check voltage and continuity
- Locate damaged wiring- inspect harness for breaks or corrosion
- Repair or replace wiring- splice in new wire or replace entire harness
- Seal connections- use heat shrink tubing or electrical tape
- Test system- verify proper operation
Average repair time: 1-3 hours
3. LED Module Replacement
For vehicles with LED DRLs:
- Remove front bumper or headlight assembly- varies by vehicle model
- Disconnect electrical connections
- Remove old LED module
- Install new module- ensure proper alignment
- Reconnect wiring
- Test functionality
- Reassemble vehicle components
Average repair time: 2-4 hours
4. Control Module Repair
For system control issues:
- Scan vehicle computer- identify error codes
- Access control module- usually located in engine compartment or behind dash
- Replace faulty module
- Program new module- may require dealer programming
- Clear error codes
- Verify proper operation
Average repair time: 1-2 hours plus programming time
Important Note:Repair procedures may vary significantly between vehicle makes and models. Always consult your vehicle's service manual for specific instructions. Some repairs may require specialized tools or dealer-level diagnostic equipment.
Warranty Consideration:Many DRL repairs are covered under vehicle warranty if within the coverage period. Check your warranty status before proceeding with repairs.
What are Daytime Running Lights (DRL)
Daytime Running Lights, commonly known as DRLs, are specialized lights on vehicles that automatically turn on when the vehicle is running during daylight hours. These lights are designed to increase vehicle visibility to other road users during daytime conditions.
How Do Daytime Running Lights Work
DRLs automatically activate when:
- The engine is running
- The vehicle is in drive mode
- The regular headlights are turned off
Benefits of Daytime Running Lights
DRLs offer several important safety benefits:
- Enhanced Visibility:Makes vehicles more noticeable to other drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists during daylight hours
- Accident Prevention:Studies show DRLs can reduce daytime accidents by up to 10-15%
- Energy Efficient:Uses less power than standard headlights while providing improved visibility
- Low Maintenance:Most modern DRLs use LED technology, which has a longer lifespan than traditional bulbs
Types of Daytime Running Lights
There are several common types of DRLs:
- LED DRLs:Most modern vehicles use energy-efficient LED lights
- Reduced-power Headlamps:Some vehicles use regular headlights at reduced power
- Dedicated DRL Units:Separate light units specifically designed for daytime running
Note: Daytime Running Lights are mandatory in many countries and are becoming increasingly standard in modern vehicles due to their proven safety benefits.
Common Failure Symptoms of Daytime Running Lights (DRL)
Daytime Running Lights (DRL) - Signs of Failure and Maintenance Guide
LED Daytime Running Lights
Signs of Failure:
- Individual LED bulbs flickering or completely dark
- Uneven brightness between left and right DRLs
- Complete failure of one or both DRL units
- Dashboard warning light illuminated
Service Schedule:
LED DRLs typically last 15,000-50,000 hours and often outlast the vehicle itself. No regular maintenance is required, but replacement is necessary if failure occurs.
Halogen Daytime Running Lights
Signs of Failure:
- Dimming or yellowing light output
- Bulb burning out completely
- Intermittent operation
- Cloudy or discolored lens cover
Service Schedule:
Halogen DRLs typically require replacement every 2-3 years or 5,000-6,000 hours of operation. Regular inspection during routine maintenance is recommended.
HID Daytime Running Lights
Signs of Failure:
- Pink or purple color instead of white light
- Delayed start-up or flickering
- Frequent cycling on and off
- Complete failure to illuminate
Service Schedule:
HID DRLs typically last 8,000-10,000 hours. Replacement is recommended every 3-5 years depending on usage. Regular testing during annual inspections is advised.
Note: Regardless of DRL type, it's important to address any issues promptly as they are a crucial safety feature. Professional inspection is recommended if you notice any signs of failure.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.
