GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) can make it easier for others to see the front of your vehicle during the day. DRL can be helpful in many different driving conditions, but they can be especially helpful in the short periods after dawn and before sunset. Fully functional daytime running lamps are required on all vehicles first sold in Canada.

A light sensor on top of the instrument panel makes the DRL work, so be sure it isn't covered.

The DRL system's automatic headlamp control will make your low-beam headlamps come on at a reduced brightness when the following conditions are met:

    • The ignition is ON,
    • the exterior lamps control is OFF, and
    • the gearshift is not in PARK (P).

When the DRL are on, only your low-beam headlamps, at a reduced level of brightness, will be on. The headlamps, taillamps, sidemarker and other lamps won't be on. Your instrument panel and cluster won't be lit up either.

When it's dark enough outside, your low-beam headlamps will turn off and the headlamps and parking lamps will turn on. The other lamps that come on with your headlamps will also come on.

When it's bright enough outside, your headlamps will go off and your DRL will come on.

As with any vehicle, you should turn on the regular headlamp system when you need it.