Daytime running lights (DRLs) are an essential safety component of almost every vehicle today. Volkswagen is no exception.
This feature has been around with numerous Volkswagen models for more than a decade.
Although it is a good idea to maintain this option when driving, there are times when it might be better to reconfigure them or change when they display.
Since this task can be challenging to complete, it might be helpful to take the vehicle to a mechanic to finish the work. Since it modifies a safety configuration, there might not be one who is willing to complete the job.
That’s why knowing how to disable DRLs is an essential part of the Volkswagen driving experience.
Can Daytime Running Lights Be Disabled in a Volkswagen?
The easiest way to turn off the daytime running lights for a Volkswagen is to activate the emergency brake. Once you pull the lever, it should turn off. This action occurs because it tells the computer that the vehicle is no longer running. You don’t want to take this step while driving.
There are substantial risks to consider when deactivating your daytime running lights. The reason why they’re included as a feature is to provide more safety for when you’re driving on roads or highways.
Some situations might require you to turn off or disable the daytime running lights. The most common issue involves sitting in a vehicle when the engine is running while the car is parked. You might want to run the air conditioner without engaging the rest of the system, listen to the radio, or watch a movie at the local drive-in.
You can also permanently disable the daytime running lights with a wiring modification. This action isn’t recommended because of the safety concerns it presents. It might also violate the conditions of your warranty, insurance policy, or other protective items.
If you don’t like the daytime running lights, you can turn them off using this methodology without changing the wires for older Volkswagen models.
- Insert your key into the ignition, but don’t turn the cylinder at all.
- Turn your headlight switch to the “O” position.
- Move the indicator stalk to the left as you pull towards yourself in the flash position.
- Turn the ignition on without starting the engine.
- Wait for at least four seconds.
- You’ll hear three beeps sound to indicate that the daytime running lights are deactivated.
You can switch the daytime running lights back on by following the same procedure with the indicator facing the right instead of the left.
If you have a cold start chirp, taking the steps will also take the load off the alternator to reduce the likelihood of an adverse event. You’ll still want to replace the harmonic balancer pully since it is likely worn out when it makes this sound.
It is illegal in some areas to disable your daytime running lights. You take full responsibility for your actions and anything that happens to third parties because of your decision. We cannot be held responsible for events that occur if you proceed with DRL disabling.
Steps to Follow When Disabling the DRL on Some Volkswagen Models
If you have a Volkswagen TDI vehicle, you can quickly disable the daytime running lights. The only thing you need to do is open the hood and unplug the feature.
Instead of letting it flap while driving, it helps to tape it in place after you’ve disabled the feature.
Although the location of the plug is variable in some models, it’s typically near the center-back of the hood compartment. It’s also a good idea to check the coolant plug glow relay since it likes to burn out frequently on TDI vehicles.
The plug typically has a yellow wire. Squeeze the metal clip with your fingers until the plugs can pull away. Your hands will get dirty doing this, so it helps to have a degreasing agent available that’s safe for your skin.
What If the Handbrake Turns Off My DRLs?
When your daytime running lights turn off after pulling the handbrake, you can solve the problem more permanently by removing Relay 173 underneath your dash.
You can also disable the DRLs at Pin #15 on the headlight switch.
The best way to work on this technique is to use some spark plug gappers or thin feelers to work around the trim to release the hatch. Although many DIY sites and guides say to use a screwdriver, the edge is delicate enough that you’ll potentially damage it.
You’ll need to remove the light switch and pull the pin for the yellow wire. Do not cut the wire as some Volkswagen drivers have suggested.
These steps let you finish the work faster without damaging the pin or trim. You can apply electrical tape over the exposed wire or trim to create a safe driving solution.
Volkswagen CC Dashboard Light Guide
Volkswagen vehicles’ warning and indicator lights get divided into four color options: red, blue, green, and amber.
The green and blue lights are typically used for displaying general information about the vehicle. If you see one display as amber or red, it typically indicates a malfunctio0n that requires your immediate attention.
When you know what the collection of indicators and warning lights mean for the vehicle, you’ll know if the DRLs are operating. It will also let you take action to limit potential damage should something unfortunate occur.
Here are the five primary categories that you’ll see with the Volkswagen CC dashboard lights.
| AdBlue® No Restart Warning: | • This red light shows a liquid-filled container pouring out fluid. • It indicates a malfunction or problem that prevents the engine from restarting. • If you see this warning, you’ll want to contact a certified VW technician as soon as you can. |
| DSG® Hot Transmission: | • A small thermometer inside of a gear communicates that your vehicle’s transmission is producing too much heat. • When you see the warning display, the best option is to pull over immediately. • Place the vehicle in park to allow the equipment time to cool. |
| Daytime Running Lights: | • The green lights that say DRL on your dashboard indicate that the daytime running lights are on. • No service is needed when you see this option unless they’re not working correctly. • If you want to drive without them on, you don’t want to see this messaging on the dashboard. |
| Shift Lock: | • If you see lights that look like a shoe inside of a circle that’s stuck between a couple of curved lines, you must apply the brake before shifting the VW into gear. • No service is necessary when you see this indicator on the dashboard. |
| EPC Exhaust Gas: | • This amber light delivers a warning that says EPC on the dashboard when the electronic power control circuit malfunctions. • You must take your vehicle in for immediate service to avoid experiencing any further damage. |
If you didn’t see the warning light that currently appears on your dashboard, it is essential to contact a certified service center immediately. You could be experiencing a dangerous set of driving conditions.
When you have a VW expert examine the vehicle, the prospects of further damage are often mitigated.
Are Daytime Running Lights Compulsory in the United States?
The first countries to require daytime running lights were in the Nordic region of Europe. Sweden became the first to make them legally necessary to use in 1977. Following their lead, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, and Norway all started requiring DRL features for all drivers.
Canada joined the trend of requiring daytime running lights for vehicles in 1990. All cars made or imported into the country must have these safety features included.
The United States took a different route. It wasn’t until 1995 when American vehicles were even allowed to have daytime running lights. Although signs in high-traffic areas encouraged people to turn on their headlights, having DRLs functioning is not a legal requirement.
Australia typically follows where the United States leads for this specific topic.
It is essential to remember that laws can change. You must be responsible for performing your due diligence when disabling your DRLs in a Volkswagen to ensure that you won’t get into trouble.
Best Accessories to Add to Your Volkswagen
When you spend a lot of time in your vehicle, it should be a comfortable experience! That’s why these Volkswagen accessories are worth the investment, whether you get those DRLs turned off or not.
This synthetic leather car seat cushion comes with several color options to match your interior. You can choose from the front two seats or get the entire set taken care of at once. The product comes with built-in lumbar support, headrest covers, and an adjustable rear cover. You’ll use steel hooks and round places to complete the installation.
When you need to clean these seat covers, all it takes is a wet cloth. It only takes about ten minutes to finish the work.
2. TuxMat Custom Floor Mats (Passat)
When you grab this item for your VW Passat, you’ll receive a set of custom-fit floor mats that cover the carpeted area. Everything will be much easier to clean with this investment, including models with a hump in the back seat. The footrest and dead pedal region on the driver’s side are also covered.
This product isn’t recommended for models that use a manual transmission.
3. Meguiar’s Complete Car Care Kit
The inside and exterior of your Volkswagen deserve equal amounts of love. When you purchase this complete car kit, you’ll get everything you need to clean and shine everything from the front number to the rear. The Gold Class car wash and liquid wax will blast away the dirt while letting your car’s shine last for weeks.
You’ll even get clay bars and a quick detailer to remove bonded contaminants.
Is It Worth Trying to Turn Off the DRLs on a Volkswagen?
For me, the value of turning off the daytime running lights is minimal compared to the safety structures they offer while driving.
Although I get that it can be inconvenient to have them on the entire time, most VW vehicles let you turn them off with a simple mechanism. If you pull the handbrake while parked and they shut down, that’s typically good enough for most circumstances.
When you have an older VW, it can be helpful to use the ignition trick to shut off the DRLs for specific reasons. It still helps to keep them on whenever you are driving.