The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas uses bright LED strips as its daytime running lights (DRLs), which come on automatically during daytime driving to keep your SUV visible to other drivers. But when those lights stop working, it can be frustrating — especially when there’s no warning on the dash and everything else seems fine.
This guide breaks down the most common reasons the DRLs stop working on the 2021 VW Atlas, and what you can do to fix it step by step.
How the DRLs Are Supposed to Work on the Atlas
The Atlas turns on its DRLs when:
- The engine is running
- The gear selector is in Drive
- The light switch is set to AUTO or OFF
- The ambient light is bright (determined by the light sensor on the dash)
If any of those conditions aren’t met, the DRLs will not activate. They also shut off automatically when the headlights are on in low light.
Step 1: Check DRL Settings in the Infotainment Menu
Volkswagen gives you control over whether DRLs are active through the digital instrument cluster or infotainment system.
To check the setting:
- Turn the ignition on
- Go to the infotainment touchscreen
- Navigate to “Vehicle” > “Exterior Lights” or “Settings”
- Make sure “Daytime Running Lights” is checked ON
If this setting is OFF, the lights won’t work even if everything else is fine. This can reset after a battery replacement or software update.
Step 2: Inspect the Ambient Light Sensor
The DRLs are tied to the light sensor mounted near the windshield on top of the dashboard. If it thinks it’s dark out, it may activate the headlights instead and suppress the DRLs.
Make sure nothing is covering the sensor — dash mats, stickers, or even dirt buildup can confuse it. Clean the sensor area and try again with the switch set to AUTO during daylight.
Step 3: Test While in Drive
On some trims of the Atlas, DRLs only come on when the transmission is in gear. That means you may not see them if the vehicle is in Park or Neutral.
- Start the vehicle
- Set the switch to AUTO or OFF
- Shift into Drive and walk in front of the vehicle to check
Step 4: Check the Fuses
The fuse box for exterior lighting is located on the left side of the dash (behind a panel near the driver’s door) and under the hood.
Look for fuses labeled as:
- “DRL”
- “Exterior Lighting”
- “Headlamp Module”
Consult the fuse diagram on the inside of the panel or owner’s manual. Use a fuse puller to inspect the fuse. If blown, replace it with one of the same amperage. A blown fuse is often a sign of a short, so be on the lookout for any recent wiring changes or water intrusion.
Step 5: Inspect the Headlight Assembly and DRL Strip
The LED DRLs are built into the headlight assembly. If one side is out, it may be a failed LED or a connection issue at the housing.
Check for:
- Moisture or condensation inside the lens
- Cracks in the housing
- Loose or damaged wiring harness at the rear of the headlight
Unfortunately, the DRL LEDs are not replaceable separately — if the strip fails, you’ll need to replace the entire headlight unit. OEM units cost over $900, but aftermarket options like the Morimoto XB LED Headlights for VW Atlas offer better performance and a clean factory fit for around $1,200.
Step 6: Scan for Fault Codes
The 2021 Atlas uses a body control module (BCM) to manage lighting. If a DRL stops working due to an internal fault, it may log a code without illuminating a dash warning.
Use a scan tool like the OBDeleven Pro Diagnostic Tool to read any lighting-related fault codes from the BCM. This can tell you if there’s a software issue, sensor fault, or output circuit failure affecting the DRLs.
Step 7: Check for Aftermarket Conflicts
If you’ve recently installed new headlights, fog lights, or even a trailer harness — the DRLs could be affected. Aftermarket parts often interfere with the Atlas’s CANbus system, which monitors power usage across circuits.
If the DRLs went out after a recent mod, unplug it and test again. If everything works afterward, you’ll need a CANbus-friendly upgrade or decoder module.
Final Thoughts: Start Simple
The DRL system on the 2021 VW Atlas is designed to work automatically — but it relies on several sensors, modules, and settings to function. Most failures come down to a settings reset, bad connection, or a blown fuse.
Start by confirming the DRL setting is enabled in the infotainment screen. Then test while in Drive, and check your fuses. If one side is out, inspect the headlight and its wiring. If you’ve checked all that and still nothing, a diagnostic scan may point to a deeper issue.
Don’t ignore it — DRLs are small, but they make a big difference in how visible your Atlas is to other drivers during the day.
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