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Daytime Running Lights (DRL)

4.2K views 29 replies 11 participants last post by  rob.bob.dave  
#1 ·
I figured this would be the place to post as Canadians trucks come with DRL. Recently purchased a 2007 Frontier and noticed that my DRL are not working. I think that I've found the fuse/relay locations which I will check when it warms up a little. Anyone else have any information to share?
 
#2 ·
If you cant get the OEM stuff to work, there is a work around.
I used to be part of a group that imported a lot of JDM vehicles and needed DRLs to pass inspection.
a quick and easy way to make DRLs is to wire the headlights to a relay, triggered by the wire that sees power when the ignition is turned on, at the wiper motor. works for any vehicle I've ever encountered.
 
#6 ·
I live in Tennessee, but my truck was originally spec'd for Canada (bought used with low miles and zero rust). I noticed the DRL feature as well then started noticing I was the only frontier with DRL's on during the day. Finally decided to pull the fuse, but I don't remember which slot it was unfortunately.

Thoughts on maybe needing new headlight bulbs? Recently my headlights went out - low beam was out, but if I flashed my brights the brights would work. Worth a look 🤷‍♂️
 
#12 ·
Correct, will not work with DRLs and LEDs combined. Unless they are directionless, in that they don't care which side pin is at +V and which side is ground. The Frontier system runs them in series for DRL and parallel for headlamps.
 
owns 2014 Nissan Frontier Pro4x
#13 ·
DRL don’t dim. They just have a different wattage output Driving lights are like 45 watts as a high beam will be 55 watts a daytime bulbs may be 35 watts or lower so LED will put out just as much or better light with same input 12 volts note With well built LED some of these made in ???? Are trash. Read the reviews before you buy and check return policy …rob442
 
#10 ·
on old school halogen systems, the DRL is the high beam, at low voltage so not as bright as actual high beams.

the problem with LEDs is that some can work at lower voltage, so will still turn on but will be full brightness high beams.
alternatively, some LEDs do not work at lower voltage, so will not make any DRL at all.
 
#17 ·
With the HUGELY improved lighting with the Katana LED's I installed, I happily gave up my DRL functionality in exchange. I just make it a point to turn on the headlights on days when lighting is at less than ideal conditions, or highway driving etc. You'd have to hold a gun to my head to make me put the halogens back in. If for some reason I really thought I needed them, I would probably just wire up a relay to the fog lights. BTW, replaced those with LED too!!
 
#22 ·
I’ve had something similar happen with my old truck. Checking the fuses and relays is definitely a good first step. If that doesn’t solve it, you might want to take a look at the DRL module—it could be faulty. I had to replace mine once, and it fixed the issue. Hopefully, it’s something simple, though! Let us know how it goes once you’ve had a chance to check it out.
 
#29 ·
I was informed the 2nd gen frontier DRL circuit actually reverses the electricity in one light and puts the lights in series. Led's are one way electrical valve hence the name "diode" Because the lights are in series and the electricity is run reversed through one bulb, nothing will light with led headlights.