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LED running lights. If you buy daytime running lights, then they are the best in all respects. Types of LED DRLs

The range of daytime running lights (abbreviated as DRLs) is almost the same everywhere and mainly consists of Chinese products produced without a brand. The majority of all goods are purchased in the main Chinese supermarket Aliexpress, in which the transaction is controlled by a third independent party. In the Aliexpress online store you can see purchase statistics for each type of product; based on these statistics, I will select the 10 most popular DRL models.

In Russian stores, the assortment is almost the same as Aliexpress, with the exception of branded goods that are in a higher price category, so a large number of Russians make purchases in China, bypassing domestic intermediaries.

When shopping, we often make decisions based on how many people bought the item. But, unfortunately, a large number of people can be wrong. We can see this by the number of bad DRLs purchased on Aliexpress.

1. Sample No. 1
2. Sample No. 2
3. Sample No. 3
4. Sample No. 4
5. Sample No. 5
6. Sample No. 6
7. Sample No. 7
8. Results

Sample No. 1

The most popular is the model of daytime running lights for 300 rubles, the price also includes free delivery to Russia. The number of sales is 5200 pieces. It turns out that the cost themselves is about 150 rubles, 75 per piece. You won't get anything good other than a plastic case. Why do people buy them, is greed and stupidity stronger than common sense, what for 150 rubles. They won’t get anything except a piece of guano. Chinese marketing and the buyer's hope for a miracle are at work here. Firstly, colorful photos are posted with other bright lights, the buyer thinks that they shine so well. But at the end of all product photos, there is a small photo that captures a meager real light flux.

Signs why they are bad:

There are no cooling fins at the back, which means there is nothing to cool.
LEDs, 8 pieces of type, each gives Chinese 0.5 W, the total will be a maximum of 2 W.
The brightness is maximum 160 lm, since such diodes produce 80 lm per watt.

Sample No. 2

COB LED daytime running lights

The second place in popularity is occupied by LED lines using COB technology; the price ranges from 160 to 240 per pair, since the length of the line can vary. 3,400 people bought these daylights. As always, at the top of the description the power is indicated as 6-7-9 W, and at the bottom, in small handwriting, 3.9 W each. The main feature of COB is that it is impossible to determine the parameters by appearance, especially since they come in different shapes, rings, circles, zigzags. For maximum credibility, the Chinese takes photos of working DRLs from close range and at night. Naturally, at night, from close range, even a one-watt diode will be bright and dazzle. Don’t forget that you need to check it during the day on a sunny day from a distance of 100 meters.

Reasons why they are bad:

In fact, these are not running lights, they are only an LED element.
Such a ruler heats up, it is glued to double-sided tape, then when heated, the adhesive layer also heats up, softens, and they fall off safely.
The power is too low, almost 4 W, this is only for lighting in the trunk.
COB beam angle is 120 degrees while DRL requires 30 degrees. It turns out that such an LED simply shines in all directions. Even if the line is 10 W, then installing it without lenses is useless.
To use such a ruler, you need a lens, primary optics, that will focus the light.
You also need a housing so that the angle of inclination can be adjusted.

Sample No. 3

Eagle Eye LEDs

The third place is taken by “”, the price is 650 for 10 pieces. The Chinese indicate that the power of each is from 3 to 9 W, but their real power is only 1 W. They are also characterized by very careless assembly with traces of glue and poor sealing. Due to exposure to salt and moisture, within six months, half of them fail, they simply begin to blink or shine very faintly.

Why they don't fit:

they can be a tuning element, but not DRLs, because they must be adjusted by angle;
when installed not in the same plane (the curved part of the bumper), they will shine sideways.
The angle of illumination with the lens is 60 degrees, which does not correspond to the required 30 degrees.
In order to make something good out of them, you need to install at least 10 of them on each side.

Sample No. 4

Similar to flexible tape

At this point, the LED strip for cars, the length of each strip is 50 cm, consists of 48 weak LEDs. Adapted for use in humid and dusty environments, sealed with silicone. The price for a pair of strips is 340 rubles. The seller honestly states that the power of the tape is 2 W and it is suitable for installing various lights on a car.

Its brightness is comparable to the brightness of LED lights, so there can be no talk of using it as daytime running lights.

Sample No. 5

Round shape in place of foglights

The round shape is designed for installation in the standard place of fog lights or in a plastic radiator grille. Price 490 per pair, plastic, diameter 7 cm, thickness 4 cm. Advantages of this model: the presence of reflectors for each LED and movable mounts. Otherwise, this is a disposable product.

The cooling radiator is simulated at the back; since the body is plastic, they are of no use.
Some LED diodes are not placed in the center of the reflector, and there are also problems with tightness.
As a rule, they are of very low quality, often even the LEDs do not adhere to the cooling system, they usually overheat and begin to flicker and go out, and even more so there is no thermal paste there.
Judging by the LEDs, there may be 0.5 W of poor quality. the total power will be 4.5 watts and the brightness will be 400 lumens. You can see from the photo that it is a little brighter than the larger dimensions on the car.

Sample No. 6

Daytime running lights of a classic shape, price 580. Number of purchasers: 499 people. In appearance they look quite decent, there is a metal body and a movable mount, there are optics for focusing the light flux.

Main disadvantages:

As we can see, 8 light elements are installed, but the indicated power consumption is only 3.2 W, the brightness is not enough to even illuminate a toilet.
There is no radiator for cooling at the back, because there is nothing to cool there.

Sample No. 7

The most original model, with built-in turn signal. Price 453 rub. As always, the seller lies shamelessly that there is nothing better than these lights, and shows a photo of the working condition in the dark. Each contains 20 white LEDs and 10 orange LEDs. In general, a trinket for 500 rubles.

Plastic with imitation radiator.
There is no full-fledged reflector, although there are some elements, there is no lens either.
20 diodes do not provide advantages, in appearance 5730, but of poor quality, which provide 0.15-0.20 W instead of 0.5 W. As a result, we get a total power of 4 W.
One headlight is 6 W, subtract 4 W for the DRLs, leaving 2 W for the turn signal repeaters. The Chinese ones give 80 Lumens per W, you can calculate the luminous flux yourself.

Results

I think you understand by what principles you can understand that daytime running lights are bad. Chinese ones that meet the minimum requirements of the regulations will cost at least 1000 rubles. And full-fledged decent ones will cost from 2000 rubles. I hope you will not join the ranks of buyers whose greed is higher than their safety, the safety of their loved ones and those around them.

As you know, after the adoption of the traffic rules law in 2010, all vehicles must drive with daytime running lights during the daytime. If vehicles are not equipped with running lights by the factory, then they must be installed taking into account the requirements and GOST or drive with low beams or fog lights on. This bill in the traffic rules caused a lot of noise and many drivers began to actively discuss this issue on forums on the Internet.

What exactly does the traffic regulations say about navigation lights in 2018? Are there GOST requirements for installing DRLs? Is there a penalty for daytime running lights? Let's try to understand these and other important issues that concern motorists in this article.

It's probably no secret to anyone that a car with daytime running lights on attracts more attention from citizens than a car whose headlights are off. It is for this reason that the traffic police inspectorate proposed to make an addition to the traffic rules. An alternative if there is no DRL on the vehicle is low beam or fog lights.

When comparing running lights to the existing headlights in a car, DRLs have a number of advantages. In order for the headlights to light, there must be a supply of electricity, which is generated by a generator. While driving on the highway, the generator, due to its constant speed, actively recharges the battery. In this case, the headlights are not energy-consuming. If the vehicle moves around the city, where there are regular traffic jams and traffic lights in which you need to stand idle, then under these conditions the battery partially loses its charge and is discharged. The generator does not have time to recharge the battery, and the load of all turned on electrical devices makes itself felt.

An old vehicle may not be able to cope with such a constant electrical load, so both the generator and the battery may quickly fail, and problems with the wiring may arise.

DRLs consume significantly less electricity than car headlight bulbs. In this regard, factories began to integrate daytime running lights into front lighting devices. As for side lights, their light brightness is significantly low, so they will simply be invisible and, accordingly, there will be no effect from them. That is why they cannot be used in place of DRLs.

DRL according to GOST

The vehicle technical regulations provide clear information about the definition and requirements for installing DRLs on a vehicle.

DRLs are definitely white headlights with possible shades of yellow or blue, which are installed at the front of the car.

For proper installation, it is necessary to comply with GOST daytime running lights:

installed at the front of the vehicle;
the distance from the ground should not be less than 25 cm and not exceed a height of one and a half meters;
they must be located at least 60 cm from each other;
from the edge of the car body to the place where the lights are installed should not be more than 400 mm.

If the vehicle does not have running lights and they were not intended to be installed by the factory, then the driver must turn on either the low beam or the fog lamps.

The driver can install DRLs at his discretion if they are not available. There is now a large selection on sale; they come in three types: incandescent lamps, halogen lamps and LED lamps. Of course, the leader is LED or LED-DRLs because they are energy saving and require 10 times less electricity.

What does the traffic regulations say about running lights?

Based on the 2016 traffic regulations, namely clause 19.5, all cars must have DRLs or low beam lights or fog lights on while driving, both in the city and on the highway. By complying with these requirements, you can ensure safety on the road for pedestrians and motorists.

If the rules for using daytime running lights are not followed, the fine for such a violation for the driver will be 500 rubles (Article 12.20 of the 2016 Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation).

Based on traffic regulations, it is mandatory to use DRL:

if minor children are transported;
by motor vehicle, as it is difficult to see from afar;
when transporting oversized items or dangerous and explosive substances;
on minibuses and public transport to attract special and comprehensive attention.

How to install DRL?

You can install LED running light devices yourself and without resorting to the services of auto electricians and specialists. To do this you need to follow a few simple rules. Of course, LED devices are installed as a set - two pieces. The main task during installation is to correctly connect them to the vehicle's power supply. It is necessary that they light up when the ignition is turned on and vice versa turn off when the ignition is turned off.

An approximate diagram for connecting daytime running devices is shown in the following image:

Now on sale in the markets there are a large number of different ready-to-connect LED DRLs. In the accompanying manual, as a rule, everything is explained clearly.

Finally

Daytime running lighting devices are aimed at increasing the attention of traffic participants. This provision of the traffic rules helps maintain road safety. It should be borne in mind that in the event of an accident, the victim, with DRLs found not to be turned on, may be found guilty.

LED daytime running lights(DRLs) are used during daylight hours to identify a vehicle on the roadway.

This is a current passive safety standard that helps prevent a significant percentage of accidents on the road. The preferred option is a stable and bright light source of sufficient power.

The brightness of LEDs is much higher than ordinary daylight, which is associated with color temperature. That is why this option is in increasing demand, remaining visible even against the backdrop of direct sunlight, which is yellow in nature.

The shape selected for the bumper design is usually rectangular or round;
Dimensions depending on the installation method and vehicle dimensions;
LED power;
Number of LEDs;
Total brightness is usually 150-330 lumens per unit;
The presence of reflectors, lenses, reflectors or other additional elements to increase the flow of light;
Build quality, ease of fastening, use of stabilizers;
Life time.

Another important criterion is the manufacturer or brand, which can directly indicate the quality of the selected model. It is better to give preference to proven options with a good reputation.

Basically, these are European brands, for example, although there are also Asian analogues of identical quality, one of the most popular.

One of the decisive factors is price. It depends on several criteria at once:

Manufacturer;
Manufacturing technologies;
LED quality;
Exterior design and much more.

Types of LED DRLs

There are two main categories:

Universal, which are suitable for cars of different models and are distinguished by their unpretentiousness to operating conditions and ease of installation;
Regular, intended for cars of a specific make or model.

Both options are produced by a number of world-famous manufacturers, so you can choose an option to suit any task and budget.

Another classification identifies:

External DRLs, which are installed in a separate housing. The main advantages are ease of installation, low cost, and the possibility of manual installation. Disadvantages: vulnerability to damage, outdated appearance.
DRL with installation in the headlight. This option allows you to install powerful lighting sources while maintaining the factory design of the car. Indoor installation requires compliance with a number of rules and regulations, as well as more significant financial and time costs.

Characteristics of LED DRL

In order to buy LED daytime running lights consciously and competently, you should study their characteristics in detail in advance, which you will need to base your choice on.

Block shape and dimensions

DRL blocks differ in parameters and can consist of two interchangeable or different elements that do not require replacement.

The design depends entirely on the imagination of designers and developers, so in addition to classic forms, there are curved, triangular and other designs.

Main selection criteria - type and features of the bumper, the specific installation location and its depth, the appearance of the result.

Number of diodes in the block

The kit consists of two blocks, each of which contains a certain number of diodes that affect the brightness of the light and the appearance of the structure.

Depending on the model, this figure varies from 1 to 6 or from 4 to 12 units per block.

The standard option is 5 diodes, although this solution is not suitable for all car brands.

LED Location

It can be located at the top, bottom or in the middle. The last option is most common, although more non-standard models can be found.

The power of light

It is important to maintain a balance between light and dark times of the day. During the day, the high brightness of the diode increases its visibility, and at night it can “blind” an oncoming driver.

For regulation, a special controller with auto-dimming capability is increasingly being used.

Installation options for daytime running lights

There are many options for connecting and using DRLs, so you need to decide in advance on the optimal solution:

Automatic switching on when starting to move and switching off when stopping. The speed sensor acts as a source of information, and during parking, the side lights perform the designation function. This option fully complies with traffic regulations.
Using fog lights in daytime running mode. Switching off occurs automatically, along with the ignition.
Switches on when the generator starts.
Implementation of DRL using low beam.
Linking daylight on/off to generator operation.
Turning on the DRL when starting the engine and turning it off from or.
Turning on DRL when starting the engine and operating at half power when starting daytime or
DRL turns on a few seconds after starting the engine, and switching off when using side lighting.
Turn on the low beam and turn off the interior lighting when starting to move.

When installing DRLs, you must adhere to the official state standard. Although there are no special requirements for the installation scheme, there are several basic norms:

Height distance: 250-1500 millimeters from the ground.
Width distance: no more than 400 millimeters from the edge of the overall width of the vehicle. The distance between the inner edges of visible surfaces is from 600 millimeters (less often – up to 400, with a vehicle width of up to 1300 millimeters).
Length distance: The emitted light must not interfere with the driver directly or when reflected by reflective surfaces.

As a result of the installation, the daytime running lights should turn on automatically after the engine control is switched to the appropriate mode.

It is necessary to provide the ability to disable automatic mode without special tools. When the headlights are turned on, with the exception of brief signal flashes, the DRLs should turn off on their own.

Many modern kits already have connectors that can be installed using the one-click principle. Installation of such LEDs comes down to installing blocks on the body. This applies mainly to the latest car models.

When working with older cars, it is better to immediately contact specialists who offer their services at any car service center.

Planning to handle the task yourself, V It is important not to fall under the restrictions of GOST, which requires certification of compliance of any changes to the vehicle.

Advantages of LED DRLs

Improving road safety;
Reducing accident rates by tens of percent;
Minimum power consumption, reducing fuel consumption by 4-6%;
Long service life of diodes, comparable to the service life of the entire car;
Increased service life of the entire lighting system due to minimal wear;
Automatic on and off, which does not require intervention from the driver;
A variety of shapes and designs to implement design solutions;
Variety of characteristics for any conditions;
Easy installation and low maintenance;
Wide selection of lights of different models from different manufacturers;
Possibility of switching to side lighting mode;
Bright light that does not blind oncoming traffic;
Protection from external damage and moisture;
High-strength body materials;
Stylish, original element of car tuning.

Disadvantages of LED DRLs

The main disadvantage of such an acquisition is its price, It is unlikely that you will be able to buy cheap LED DRLs of good quality. High-quality, reliable and durable LED lights require financial costs, which may seem quite high.

But in practice, due to its cost-effectiveness and excellent functional characteristics, such an investment pays for itself in the shortest possible time.

Another problem is installing DRLs in the absence of connectors. But this can also be dealt with by spending a little more time on the issue. It is enough to make one effort by installing daytime running lights with your own hands, and in the future the units will not require complex maintenance and additional expenses.

Application area

LED daytime running lights Can be installed on most European and Asian cars. Domestic cars will also have their own solutions, although often this issue still remains at the discretion of the driver.

DRL units are most often installed next to the headlights or in the voids of the bumper, if available.

Features of installation work depend on the car model and type of lights. It is necessary not only to secure the elements, but also to connect them correctly for proper functioning.

Conclusion

Companies producing LED running lights offer all new developments and original options.

The use of such technologies is not only a practical solution, but also a concern for the safety of the driver, passengers and other road users.

Tell your friends!

Well, we got excited about “all”: demand has created such a supply that it is simply unrealistic to buy and test all the models. This, by the way, was clearly visible at the Automechanika and Interauto exhibitions held in Moscow. We decided to select samples with different characteristics: cheap and very expensive, with and without control units, rectangular and round, plastic and metal...

Everyone unanimously promises increased road safety and energy saving (the latter is absolutely true). Moreover, the smaller the contribution to safety, the greater the savings - not only energy, but also money. No wonder: weak LEDs are cheap and consume almost no electricity. Not blinded by the light (often very dim), your eyes literally run wild, but it is clear: you can choose a flashlight that is most suitable in design and mounting method for any car.

In general, there were a dozen products, both branded and no name. The latter is in the literal sense: neither the manufacturer nor the country of origin advertised themselves. But many loudly declare full compliance with the requirements of ECE R48. But there is one trick here: the mentioned EU rules (and the corresponding GOST R 41.48–2004) apply to the installation of these lights, but not to them themselves. But the requirements for DRLs are set out in another document: ECE R87 (GOST R 41.87–99). It says exactly how brightly and where the correct flashlights should shine, what the color of their glow should be and the visible surface area.

It is these requirements that most manufacturers of cheap DRLs stumble on. Only very powerful and expensive LEDs can provide the luminous intensity of each flashlight within the range of 400–800 cd. It’s easier with the total visible luminous surface, which should be at least 40 cm². But, apparently, the authors of a number of products do not attach importance to such “trifles” - after all, their flashlights are dim anyway, and where there is one violation, there are two...

YOU WILL NOT CHECK THE REAL BRIGHTNESS OF THE DRL IN THE STORE. CHOOSE FLASHLIGHTS WITH A METAL CASE: POWERFUL LEDS ARE ONLY INSTALLED IN THIS CASE.

The products are arranged in ascending order of their cost.

Super 6 LED sports TTX-1015

Origin China

Approximate price 475 rub.

Number of LEDs 6

Current consumption 140 mA

Luminous intensity 18 cd

Diffuser dimensions 115 × 10 mm

The frail LEDs in the plastic casing shine extremely dimly, the mounting is unreliable, and the luminous area is almost half the normal size. The bracket is attached to the bracket with Velcro, and it is attached to two screws.

LED Daytime Running Light BF-201

Origin unknown

Approximate price 1000 rub.

Number of LEDs 4

Current consumption 120 mA

Luminous intensity 80 cd

Diffuser dimensions Ø 70 mm

Plastic flashlights are attached to brackets with adjustable angles and to the bumper with self-tapping screws. The light is weak. Thank you, at least we didn’t save on the reflector area.

SONG-YE

Origin unknown

Approximate price 1045 rub.

Number of LEDs 8

Current consumption 360 mA

Luminous intensity 27 cd

Diffuser dimensions 155 × 17 mm

The instructions state: 100% Waterproof, however, the pictograms on the box prohibit washing plastic lanterns in any way other than with a sponge, and without shampoo! The light is weak.

Maxlight M320D

Origin unknown

Number of LEDs 20

Current consumption 260 mA

Luminous intensity 108 cd

Diffuser dimensions 185 × 25 mm

The yellow wire indicated in the diagram for connecting to the side lights... is missing! The light is rather weak, but the luminous area is within the standard. Fastening of plastic lights is on a bracket, with adjustment.

DRL F1

Origin unknown

Approximate price 1425 rub.

Number of LEDs 8

Current consumption 480 mA

Luminous intensity 54 cd

Diffuser dimensions 150 × 20 × 50 mm

(curved in the shape of a club)

The instructions indicate the possibility of automatic disconnection from the dimensions, but it is not shown in the diagram or in real life. The light is dim, the size of the light spot is normal. Fastening to a vertical wall, on two through hollow bolts (wires are routed through them). The body is plastic.

Egolight PL-8

Origin China

Approximate price 1615 rub.

Number of LEDs 8

Current consumption 100 mA

Luminous intensity 55 cd

Diffuser dimensions 155 × 20 mm

These plastic DRLs have no brightness at all. Mounting on brackets, with adjustable angle of inclination, then - Velcro or self-tapping screws.

LED Daytime Running Light NIUDI ND-06

Origin China

Approximate price 1990 rub.

Number of LEDs 5

Current consumption 600 mA

Luminous intensity 140 cd

Diffuser dimensions 220 × 30 mm

It provides the ability to automatically turn off when the side lights are on, but there is ambiguity in the color designation of the wires. There are sealed connectors. Alas, the light is weak, and even one and a half extra luminous area does not help matters. Fastening of plastic lanterns is at the corners.

DRL Tiger Narva - Choice of air defense!

Origin China

Approximate price 2900 rub.

Number of LEDs 4

Current consumption 470 mA

Luminous intensity 533 cd

Diffuser dimensions 125 × 25 mm

The included ECU automatically turns on when the voltage is above 13.7 V (this allows you to connect directly to the battery) and turns off when the lights are turned on. The brightness meets the standards, as does the area. Aluminum lamps are mounted on brackets with latches.

STARLED AL-WL9B

Origin unknown

Approximate price 3000 rub.

Number of LEDs 9

Current consumption 1280 mA

Luminous intensity 554 cd

Diffuser dimensions Ø 37 mm

The projector optical system and powerful LEDs in an aluminum casing helped to meet the requirements for the brightness of the flashlights, but the luminous surface area is small. Fastening - on a bracket (at any angle) or with a rear bolt.

OSRAM LED LIGHT@DAY - Choice of ZR!

Origin Romania

Approximate price 5500 rub.

Number of LEDs 2 (with light guide)

Current consumption 1170 mA

Luminous intensity 640 cd

Diffuser dimensions 160 × 30 mm

The supplied ECU allows you to implement both a complete shutdown when the lights are on, and a decrease in brightness. Aluminum DRLs automatically turn on when voltage is above 13.6 V. Sealed connectors, fuse. Fastening - on brackets with latches.

Philips LED DayLight8

Origin Taiwan

Approximate price 7000 rub.

Number of LEDs 8

Current consumption 1060 mA

Luminous intensity 566 cd

Diffuser dimensions 160 × 18 mm

A high-quality product in aluminum cases automatically turns on when the voltage in the on-board network increases above 13.5 V. Automatic shutdown or dimming of brightness is implemented when the lights are on. Fastening - with latches to the bracket and two self-tapping screws. Eh, if only these lanterns were cheaper...

HELLA LEDayFlex 8

Origin Taiwan

Approximate price 13,380 rub.

Number of LEDs 8 (in eight separate housings)

Current consumption 1000 mA

Luminous intensity 690 cd

Diffuser dimensions Ø 30 mm

Here the ECU only implements a shutdown when the lights are on, but it needs to be connected to the ignition terminal, not the battery. Attention: the black wire is... a plus! The expensive kit contains neither brackets nor a cable for connecting to the on-board network. The brightness of aluminum flashlights and the total luminous area are normal. If you have skillful hands, you can assemble some kind of design from flashlights, but you will have to tinker with the installation.

QUESTION ANSWER

- How to choose the best form of DRL?

Generally speaking, this is a matter of taste. But we must keep in mind the requirement of GOST 41.87–99: the total area of the luminous surface of the DRL must be at least 40 cm². For rectangular lanterns it is easy to measure it with a ruler, but round ones should have a diameter of at least 50 mm.

- How can I connect the DRLs myself so that they light up when the ignition is turned on, but do not light up when the headlights are on?

Let's offer a couple of simplest solutions. In the case of low-power DRLs, you can get by with just one diode, see. scheme 1:

For higher current flashlights, please note scheme 2: You only need one additional automotive relay with normally closed contacts. In any case, the craftsman’s task is to find in the on-board network a wire to which power is supplied when the ignition is turned on, and another one that goes to the headlight bulb or low beam. If you purchased a product with an electronic unit, you only need to make a tap from the light bulb. And connect the remaining two wires directly to the battery terminals. Do not confuse the polarity - it is indicated in the instructions.

Attempts to improve road safety have led to the introduction of warning lights that make moving traffic more visible. Daytime running lights first appeared about 40 years ago in the Scandinavian countries, where, due to climatic conditions, there is often a lack of natural light during daylight hours.

Decades later, the presence of running lights on a car has become a mandatory item of traffic rules (traffic regulations) in most countries of the world, thereby proving its effectiveness. This article will tell you what daytime running lights are and everything connected with them.

What is DRL?

Daytime running lights (DRLs) are lights located on the front of the car. They are intended for use during daylight hours. DRLs significantly improve the visibility of a moving vehicle (VV), thereby reducing the risk of accidents. In English, DRLs are referred to as DRL (Daytime running lights). This abbreviation is often found on packaging with commercially produced running lights.

GOST and DRL

The installation of lighting and light signaling devices on vehicles is regulated by GOST R 41.48-2004. Section 6.19 “Daytime running light” clearly defines the standards for the placement of lighting devices, their geometric visibility and functional connection diagram. In particular, clause 6.19.5 says that the emitted light should come at an angle:

in the horizontal plane - 20°;
in the vertical plane - 10°.

It is this point that drivers often violate when making and attaching DRLs with their own hands. As a result, the light is either directed into the asphalt without attracting the attention of oncoming motorists, or it blinds them too much.

The permissible distances for placing navigation lights are clearly shown in the figure.
The navigation lights should be turned on (off) automatically when starting (stopping) the engine (clause 6.19.7). Also, the electrical circuit must take into account the automatic shutdown of the DRLs at the moment when the headlights are turned on.

Traffic rules and daytime running lights

In Russia, the mandatory use of DRLs was approved at the legislative level in November 2010. In this regard, the traffic rules have been supplemented with amendments, according to which all moving vehicles must have DRLs, low beam headlights, or fog lights on.

The choice of a light source that performs the function of running lights is largely determined by the design features of the car and its year of manufacture. Modern car models are equipped with standard notification devices based on LED modules. The use of such DRLs significantly saves fuel consumption and battery energy when driving in urban areas.

For this reason, many car owners independently install ready-made modular DRLs or make them with their own hands, getting rid of the disadvantages of low beams and fog lights. Turning on the low beam lights illuminates the instrument panel and side lights, which increases the load on the battery and shortens the life of the lamps. In turn, fog lights blind oncoming drivers, which is their main disadvantage. For this reason, in many countries it is prohibited to turn them on in normal visibility conditions.

Clause 12.5 of the Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation contains information about malfunctions and conditions under which the operation of the vehicle is prohibited. In particular, it is prohibited to install lighting devices whose operating mode does not meet the basic requirements of the Regulations, which entails deprivation of rights for a period of 6 to 12 months.

Drivers of public transport should be especially vigilant, as well as when transporting children, dangerous and oversized cargo. In accordance with Art. 12.20 of the Code of Administrative Offenses on the territory of the Russian Federation, for driving during daylight hours with the DRLs turned off, a warning or a fine of 500 rubles is provided.

Installation and connection of DRL

Adhering to the placement diagram, it is quite possible to install running lights on a car with your own hands. The configuration of commercially produced models, as a rule, includes descriptions and parts for quick installation and connection to the machine’s on-board network.
But with self-made daytime running lights you will have to tinker. Particular attention should be paid to the quality and correctness of the connection in order to avoid troubles with electrical wiring in the future.

Schemes and options for connecting daytime running lights are described.

As for ready-made assemblies, Philips LED DRLs have proven themselves well. They have the advantage of being easy to install, suitable for many brands of cars, have an impact-resistant body and a long service life. Their only drawback is the price, which ranges from $60 to $100 per pair. To summarize, I would like to note that today daytime running lights on a car are a tandem consisting of practicality and safety. Thanks to their purpose, the car stands out from the general moving stream, and their light prevents potential accidents.