If your 2007 Honda Civic’s daytime running lights (DRLs) have stopped working, but the rest of your lights are fine, you’re not alone. This is one of the most common minor electrical issues in this car. The fix can be quick — if you check the usual spots.
How the DRLs Work
The DRLs on a 2007 Civic are designed to light up the high beams at reduced brightness during daylight. This happens automatically when:
- The ignition is ON
- The parking brake is released
- The transmission is in gear (for automatics)
- Headlights are OFF
The system runs through a DRL control module, a relay, and the high beam bulbs. Here’s how to track down the problem.
Step 1: Check the Parking Brake Switch
The DRLs shut off when the parking brake is engaged. Make sure the parking brake is completely down, and that the brake light on the dash turns off. If the switch under the handle is sticking or broken, it will trick the system into thinking the brake is still on.
Step 2: Confirm the High Beam Bulbs
The DRLs use the same 9005 bulbs as the high beams. If the DRLs aren’t working, but the high beams are, the bulbs are probably okay. But if the bulbs are older or poor quality, they may fail to light at lower DRL voltage.
Pull the bulbs and check for dark glass or brittle filaments. Replace if needed. Try Fahren 9005 LED bulbs for a better, longer-lasting replacement.
Step 3: DRL Fuse
Under the hood in the fuse box, look for a fuse labeled “DRL” — usually 10A or 15A. Check your fuse diagram under the cover or in the owner’s manual.
- Pull the fuse and check for a blown filament
- Replace with the same rating if blown
If it blows repeatedly, there may be a short in the wiring or relay.
Step 4: DRL Relay
The relay for the DRL system is located in the under-hood fuse box or on the driver’s side under-dash relay panel, depending on your trim. If this relay fails, the DRLs won’t activate.
Try swapping it with another identical relay in the box (e.g., horn or A/C relay). If DRLs come on, you’ve found the problem. Replace with a high-quality relay like the Denso 567-0010.
Step 5: DRL Control Module
The DRL module is a small electronic unit mounted behind the dash or in the driver’s footwell. It controls DRL function based on inputs from the parking brake, ignition, and headlights.
If all other parts check out and DRLs still don’t work, this module may be bad. There’s no warning light when it fails. Check wiring and plugs for looseness or corrosion. If needed, replace with a used or new part — most cost around $50–$100 online.
Step 6: Manual Headlight Switch Override
If your lights are set to ON, the DRLs won’t activate. Try turning the switch to OFF or AUTO and starting the car again. Then check if the DRLs are glowing.
Step 7: Aftermarket Bulbs or Mods?
If you’ve added LED or HID headlight kits, many won’t work with the DRL system unless they are DRL-compatible. Try temporarily reinstalling the stock halogen bulbs. If DRLs start working again, you’ll need CANbus-compatible bulbs.
Quick Fix Tip
If your DRL module or relay is unavailable, and you want DRLs for safety, consider installing a basic DRL controller. It hooks into ignition power and low beams or fogs, costs under $20, and installs in under an hour.
Wrap-Up
For a 2007 Honda Civic, DRL problems are usually tied to the relay, fuse, or high beam bulbs. Start with the simple stuff — parking brake, bulbs, and fuse — before replacing the relay or module. Most fixes are under $25 and take less than 30 minutes.
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