The best running lights. What are daytime running lights for? What do traffic regulations say about running lights?
Necessary in order to highlight and express the car in the daytime. This increases the visibility of the car and, accordingly, the safety of the driver. The lights are placed on the front of the car. But before equipping your car with such a device, you definitely need to familiarize yourself with the legislation. You need to know all the rules and regulations of traffic rules and GOST, so in this article we will provide the main nuances for working with flashlights. The law on DRLs in Russia since 2011 obliges all drivers to drive in daytime with headlights on. It is worth noting that today daytime running lights are classified not only as individual light elements, but also as low-beam headlights and fog lights. According to statistics, after the law on running lights was adopted, the number of road accidents decreased by almost half.
Today, there are requirements regarding daytime lights that are regulated by many legal and by-laws. Therefore, if you decide to install daytime lights on your car, then you definitely need to carefully read each point that is prescribed in the legislation. The first law that mentions daytime running lights is Decree of the Government of the Russian Federation No. 316 in the city of Moscow dated May 10, 2010. All changes that were made to the Resolution of the Council of Ministers - Government of the Russian Federation No. 1090 of October 23, 1993 are indicated here.
Thus, the following changes were made to the traffic rules of the Russian Federation:
- 19. Changes have been made regarding the use of external lighting devices.
- 19. 5 During the daytime, all vehicles must use low beam headlights or .
GOST for running lights R 41.87-99 prescribes that the lights are officially approved daylight on motor vehicles. Further, for daytime running lights GOST R 41.48-2004 of the same provisions, but with changes to the definition of what DRLs are, based on international standards UN Economic Commission for Europe No. 48 states:
“Uniform regulations concerning the certification of vehicles in relation to the installation of external vehicle lighting and light signaling devices.”
The changes were introduced on January 1, 2005, and they replace the provisions of the previous DRL standards GOST R 41.48-99. The last provision regarding the installation of DRLs according to GOST standardizes that all types of motor vehicles must have daytime lights that must comply with UNECE requirements.
According to this requirement, all types of lights, as well as on cars, must have special signs confirming the official and certified installation of DRLs. These should be designations that determine and also show whether the equipment is standard or homemade.
Installation of DRL according to GOST
IN Russian Federation There are special standards for DRLs that drivers equipped with separate warning lights must adhere to. It is worth noting that the installation standards for DRLs in Russia and Europe are slightly different.
- The installation height of daytime lights relative to the ground surface should be within 25-150cm.
- From each other independent blocks daytime running lights should be on minimum distance at 60cm. The only exception is for cars with a small body up to 1300 cm, so a distance between lights of 40 cm is allowed.
- The radiation area, that is, the area covered by the DRL light, should be in the range from 25 to 200 centimeters square.
- The brightness of the DRL GOST or the luminous intensity provided by daytime running lights is from 400 to 800 Cd.
Any installation of navigation lights according to GOST must comply with the above requirements and rules. If at least one parameter deviates from the norm, then if you stop on the road law enforcement agencies, you may not only receive a fine, but also lose your car, since in rare cases it may be driven to a parking lot for a fine.
It is worth noting that, as a rule, high-quality and certified DRLs are produced by German high-quality and popular companies, such as, or. Daylights from these companies not only comply with Russian State Standards, but also provide maximum effect, And highest degree safety when traveling during the daytime. When a car undergoes a routine check at a service station, no problems arise, as often happens with those versions of lights that were produced by car owners themselves.
The only thing that causes problems and inconvenience if DRLs are installed according to Russian GOST is interference with the integrity of the car’s structure. This is characteristic mainly of older car models that were produced before the adoption of the law with the mandatory inclusion of lights during the day when driving. That is, if you need to install DRLs on a car where this is not provided, then you need to collect a full package of documents and seek official permission to make changes to the mechanical design of the car. In addition, you will also have to produce more complex engineering works for their installation. It will be necessary to make cuts or cutouts in the bumper in order to accurately position the light modules for daytime driving. You can find out how to properly make a DRL with your own hands, as well as install and connect it in a car.
11 Comment on “DRL laws in Russia: GOST and traffic rules”
Ivan - 19.12.2016
QUESTION: Is there some kind of standard for the DRL light beam, is it possible to use 2-mode DRL lamps + rotation.________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ANSWER: Hello, Ivan! According to TR, Appendix 5 1.3.29. Requirements for daytime running lights: 1.3.29.1. Daytime running lights, if equipped, must turn on automatically when the ignition switch is in a position that does not prevent the engine from running. Daytime running lights must turn off automatically when the headlights are turned on, except when flashing the headlights is used to provide short-term warning lights. Thus, using 2-mode DRL lamps + rotation is illegal.
Paul - 14.11.2016
QUESTION: Good afternoon! Please tell me if it is possible in the center passenger car, install DRLs, according to the principle of an SUV, i.e. some kind of headlight with LEDs 40 cm long?__________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ANSWER: Hello, Pavel! Your question is quite delicate and our specialists who install DRLs will be able to answer it. In order for them to contact you and advise you, leave your contact information.
Dima - 04.11.2016
QUESTION: can I install the DRL on a VAZ 21099 myself without collecting a bunch of documents for permission to change the design________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ANSWER: Hello Dmitry. Installing DRL is making changes to the design of the vehicle, this is specified in GOST R 41.48-2004 and Technical regulations. And any change in the design requires “collecting a bunch of documents for permission.”
Alexei - 10.10.2016
QUESTION: Hello. Can I install a flexible LED strip in my car's headlight? As many people do now. And will it be legal or not? Thank you______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ANSWER: Hello, Alexey, thank you for such actual question. Installation LED strip in the headlight will refer to the list of malfunctions in which the operation of the vehicle is prohibited. Driving the specified vehicle must be qualified by employees of the State Traffic Inspectorate as an administrative offense provided for in Part 1 of Article 12.5 of the Code of the Russian Federation on Administrative Offenses.
Konstantin - 15.08.2016
QUESTION: Judging by GOST standards, installation on motorcycles is in principle impossible? Is it possible to legalize such an installation of DRLs (see photo on the link)? http://pp.vk.me/c625817/v625817542/1bf6b/8Ib0hPvpEB0.jpg________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ANSWER: Hello, Konstantin. The issue regarding the legalization of DRLs is quite sensitive. For more reliable information, leave your contact number and a qualified specialist will advise you over the phone.
Vladimir - 29.06.2016
QUESTION: Good afternoon. I’m very interested in the question: is it possible for us to use high beams as DRLs at half the incandescence of the nominal value, or at 30%, as some manufacturers of auto accessories suggest? ______________________________________________________________________________________________________ ANSWER: Hello, Vladimir! According to Russian traffic rules, it is allowed to use high beams as DRLs at half the incandescence of the nominal value, or at 30%. At correct scheme connection, turning on the high beam can be made automatic; for more detailed information, read this article https://site/cat-dnevnye-hodovye-ogni/a-dalnij-svet-v-kachestve-dho
Alexei - 21.06.2016
QUESTION: good afternoon, it is possible to use turn signals as DRLs, turn signals in a standard headlight, orange color, but according to GOST 2004, DRLs must be white, but turn signals are not DRLs directly, but combined (or grouped) lighting devices operating in different modes, whether there may be problems with the traffic police in this regard. I just know that on American-made cars from the factory, instead of DRLs, turn signals or high beam lamps are used in the so-called “half-incandescent” mode______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ANSWER: Good afternoon, Alexey! These issues are dealt with by our legal consultants, please leave your contact details and they will contact you as soon as possible.
Today, every car used in the Russian Federation must be equipped with daytime running lights (DRLs). Moreover, this type of optics must be turned on at any time of the day. You can learn more about how running lights are regulated by traffic rules from this article.
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Laws and regulations governing requirements for DRLs
On this moment And General requirements This type of optics is regulated by many legal acts. Of course, it wouldn’t hurt every car enthusiast to know about them. The main document that clearly specifies the requirements for daytime running lights is Russian Government Decree No. 316, signed in May 2010.
In accordance with this document the rules traffic adjustments have been made. In particular, daytime running lights in Russia must now be installed on all cars without exception. The main requirement for DRLs is that these optics or low beams must be turned on at any time of the day, which is necessary to identify the vehicle among other road users. Otherwise, the driver may face a fine.
In accordance with GOST number R 41.87-99, daytime running lights are a type of optics that indicates the dimensions of the car. This document standardizes optics for all types of cars in accordance with European standards. That is, installed daylight(the headlamp) must be certified, which means that an approval symbol must be present on the housing or glass.
Basic requirements in accordance with GOST and traffic rules
Daily DRLs should not only be present on every car, it is important to install them correctly.
In accordance with Russian state standard, when installing daytime running lights, the following parameters must be taken into account:
- from the road surface, the optics should be located at a distance of 0.25 to 1.5 m;
- the minimum distance between the headlights must be no less than 0.6 m, and they must be installed no further than 0.4 m from the edge of the vehicle body;
- concerning luminous flux, which daytime running lights have, then it should be in the region of 25-200 cm2;
- Another parameter is the radiation strength, in total it should vary from 400 to 800 Cd.
If these parameters are not observed, the driver may face a real fine. Of course, not every traffic police inspector will use a ruler to measure whether you have installed the optics correctly in order to determine the non-compliance of standards. However, there is a fine for this, so it is still better to follow the rules when installing lights.
In fact, DRLs produced famous brands, such as Philips, Hella and others, meet legal requirements. Buying such optics, you can install it at home without any problems, and there are no problems in terms of Maintenance you won't have any problems when using it. As for the shortcomings, in this case there is only one. To do everything in accordance with the Russian Federation standard, especially if we're talking about about old cars, you will have to interfere with the design of the bumper. That is, you will need to make the appropriate cuts and carry out other installation work to install the optics (video author - Azamchik Abdizhalilov).
Installation of running lights according to GOST
If you intend to equip your vehicle with this type of optics and ensure that the installation complies with regulations and standards, simply follow the parameters stated above. If you do not do this, as we have already reported, you will face a fine. Moreover, if a traffic police officer regards this violation as “special,” the car may even be sent to a parking lot.
Therefore, in order not to incur problems, it is necessary not only to carry out installation in accordance with the requirements, but also to choose the right optics for your car. Remember that you should pay attention to the choice of the type of optics, as well as the brand, that is, the manufacturer, since a lot depends on this. When buying DRLs from well-known world brands such as Philips or, for example, Osram, you can be 100% sure that the optics fully comply with the standard.
But you need to choose well-known manufacturers not only because their products comply with the rules, GOSTs and standards. Products from global brands, as practice shows, are the most reliable and effective, and this, in turn, will allow you to move around most safely. Russian roads. Lamps and headlights from the above manufacturers undergo all necessary testing and verification at foreign service stations. This is an undeniable plus, especially when comparing DRLs with optics made in a garage.
So, how is the installation done:
- When you have chosen a place for installation, you need to install the fastening elements of the lamps at the required angle; self-tapping screws are used for this. Installation can be carried out both under the bumper and inside it; it is optimal, of course, to install the lights directly into the structure. If there are plugs in the bumper, they must be removed and cleaned of dust and dirt. In accordance with the size of the lanterns, holes must be made in the plugs.
- On back side For the plugs, you need to cut through the horizontal strip and remove the stiffener.
- The fixing angles should be screwed to the headlight bracket for further installation on the car. Then the bracket should be fixed to the plug.
- After these steps, you need to open the hood and install the daytime optics control unit; it must be mounted as close to the battery as possible. For installation, ties, clamps or tape are used.
- Then the wiring for the left and right headlights is laid. All that remains is to connect the lights. According to the standard, the black cable is connected to the vehicle ground, and the red one must be connected to one of the cables, which is connected to the battery positive. After this, the fuse is fixed.
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 from different characteristics: cheap and very expensive, with and without control units, rectangular and round, plastic and metal...
Everyone promises increased security on roads and energy saving (the latter is 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 last one is in literally: 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 say: 100% Waterproof, but the pictograms on the box prohibit washing plastic lanterns in any way except 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 on 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 adjustment of the 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
Projector room 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 complete shutdown with the lights 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. Implemented automatic shutdown or a decrease in brightness 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.
Today, one of the most pressing and frequently asked questions is whether daytime running lights are allowed. After the adopted legislation obligated all drivers to travel even during the daytime with their headlights on, they became one of the most important and sought-after goods on the world market. Drivers turn specifically to the option of individual modules, since they have a number of advantages, including lower energy consumption, as well as brightness and operating time.
It is worth noting that after these modules have become so popular, drivers are not missing out on the opportunity and equipping their cars with DRLs. Quite often there were cases when drivers installed daytime running lights on their cars, but they were not provided for by the factory design of the vehicle. In this case, all sizes were taken into account, technical specifications modules, lights and everything else, but checks and technical inspections did not accept such modernization.
This is explained by the fact that if a car is not equipped with DRLs, then their installation is regarded as an interference with the integrity of the factory design of the car. But it is worth noting that neither in GOST nor in traffic rules It is not stated that you cannot install daytime running lights on your car.
Cars that are not originally equipped with daytime running lights from the factory can be upgraded with the installation of DRLs. For this purpose, today there are a huge number of special kits on sale. Each of them has two modules that are installed on cars on the right and left, wiring, as well as a special unit that ensures the stability of the automatic activation and attenuation of the glow intensity. An example of such DRLs are those shown in the figure on the left. Note that since September 10, 2009, Decree of the Russian Federation No. 720, according to which the installation of DRLs on certain vehicles, which are not equipped with them from the factory, are legal and fully permitted. BUT! To do this, you need to collect a complete package of documents and formalize intervention in the structure and integrity of the car, which, if desired, can be done very easily and quickly. Thus, if you approach the issue correctly and study all the facets of the legality of DRL, then you can quickly and without problems install a stylish device on a car, and under license.
Quite relevant among car enthusiasts. Many drivers assemble these systems with their own hands to save money. There are many such homemade options, which are more tuning elements than a functional solution. These products will not bring any benefit, and sometimes they can cause harm. Such lights are often made from any available materials. You can also find many models from China on the market.
Many still believe in the power latest technologies and, due to poor orientation in these technologies, fall for the marketing tricks of the Chinese brothers, who indicate more high performance than they really are. It’s worth finding out how to choose running lights for a car, which models are considered the best and what car owners write about them. The topic of installation and connection is also very important.
Functions of daytime running lights
DRLs are designed to indicate a car on the road during the day.
There is a regulation that states that the glow should be at an angle of 30 degrees, where 10 should be above the horizontal, and another 20 below. According to the same regulations, the illuminated area should be about 40 cm2 - this will help avoid buying too much effective sources Sveta. Often these are models with spot light.
Those who know how to choose purchase equipment, the light of which is noticeable from a distance of up to 200 m, even on a clear and sunny day. DRLs, unlike car optics, have a smaller beam angle. According to their tasks, these light sources should create the effect of a lantern that shines into a person’s eyes from a great distance.
Types of daytime running lights
IN various countries The types of these lighting devices are understood completely differently. This may well be the low beam, which turns on when the engine starts. To reduce the intensity of the glow, it operates at a lower voltage.
They also distinguish between independent electronic filling car front emitters or turn lamps that work constantly. But this confuses other drivers and can lead to an accident.
In Russia, since November 20, 2010, the traffic rules indicate the need to use DRLs at any time of the day or night and on any roads. Anything can be used as running lights, including low beams or fog lights.
By the way, the latter perfectly illuminate the roadside. Their light is quite bright, and a car with them becomes more visible on the road in any conditions. But they also have a serious drawback. may blind other road users.
In Canada and the USA, high beams are allowed to be used as running lights, but dimmed. Some manufacturers specifically install low-pressure high beam optics.
Running lights are primarily about traffic safety, so you should not skimp on this equipment or create a ridiculous design with your own hands. If you know how to choose the right daytime running lights, you can purchase an inexpensive and effective set.
Choosing LED lights
Such DRLs are very effective method car markings on the road. This is a spectacular tuning, and also an opportunity to avoid fines. Today, DRLs are a completely relevant standard of passive safety. Statistics show that with their implementation, the rate of accidents on the country's roads has significantly decreased.
For those who do not know how to choose LED daytime running lights, preference should be given to models where the light is stable, bright and powerful enough. But first things first.
Why LEDs? Because their brightness is much higher than ordinary daylight. LED kits are in great demand today. They are noticeable under any conditions, and even in the brightest sun.
For those who do not know how to choose running lights for a car, it is worth saying that the blocks have certain characteristics. It is on them that the choice should be based. Below we will look at the main characteristics of DRL units.
Shape, size, design
So, one of the characteristics is shape and size. Navigation light kits can have different parameters and look like two replaceable or non-replaceable components. As for the design, it all depends on the designers.
Modern models can be not only classic, but also curved, triangular shape or any other. Main criterion in the choice of shape and size - this is the bumper, its design features. The location where the DRLs will be installed is also important.
Number of LEDs
Often the system consists of two blocks. Each of them may contain a certain number of diodes. This amount affects the brightness of the glow, as well as appearance. Some models may have from 1 to 12 diodes per block. IN standard version 5 diodes available, however this decision Not suitable for all car models and brands.
Diode placement
LEDs can be installed at the top, bottom or in the middle. On most models, manufacturers use last option, but there are also non-standard devices on sale.
Luminous flux strength
For those who do not know how to choose running lights for a car, it is worth saying that when choosing, it is important to maintain a balance between day and night.
If the LED is bright enough, then during the day it can increase the visibility of the DRLs, at night bright element will blind the driver. Today, most models begin to use special microcontrollers that regulate brightness.
Types of LED DRLs
Can be divided into universal and standard. The first ones are created for most car models and brands. These systems are quite unpretentious, and even a child can install them. For those who don’t know how to choose running lights for a car, this is a good option.
Standard solutions are specially created for specific brand and car model. Both the first and second types are produced by several world-famous brands. Thanks to this, you can choose the right set for any budget without any problems. There is another classification - according to it, running lights are divided into external solutions and those mounted directly into the head optics.
So, external ones are installed in a separate housing. Their main advantage is simpler installation and low price. Also possible self installation and connection. But they are very vulnerable to various mechanical damage and do not have a very remarkable appearance.
The second option makes it possible to use enough powerful sources light, but at the same time completely preserve the design of the car, which was developed at the factory. Installation of these solutions requires the specialist to comply with certain important rules, as well as the cost of time and money.
Advantages and disadvantages of LED running lights
Among the advantages of such solutions are an increase in the level of safety on the roadway and a significant reduction in accident rates. Also, these kits have minimal energy consumption. The diodes have a long service life and system wear is practically zero.
Daytime running lights and an auto-on controller make the driver's life much easier - absolutely no intervention is required from the car owner.
There are many models on sale different forms, sizes, characteristics that are suitable for almost any conditions. Installation of the systems is simple. DRLs require virtually no maintenance, and the light does not blind drivers.
Among the disadvantages is the cost, because it is simply impossible to purchase a quality product cheaply. Reliable, durable and high-quality kits require investment. However, such investments will quickly pay off, because the life of the low beam lamps will be preserved.
Another drawback is that some car models do not have connectors. However, this problem can be solved by applying minimal effort. You can install running lights on your car yourself. The connection diagram is very simple and clear.
Market Review
What are they, good and best DRLs? Do they even exist? Let's try to find out. We'll start with Chinese brands. So, these lights have already gone from novelty to commonplace. Some car enthusiasts prefer Chinese models, others buy expensive products from Hella or Philips. There is an opinion that everything made in China is nonsense. It's not like that at all. There are also worthy and honest manufacturers among the Chinese.
Which running lights to choose for a car?
Car enthusiasts are often offered "eagle" or something similar. At first glance, it may seem that this best solutions. But most copies are distinguished by terrible wiring and low-quality aluminum housing. The problem with such structures is the lack of heat removal. As a result of this, the diodes “degrade”. If you need just such lights, then you should purchase models from Hella. They are the best. It's expensive, but it's worth it.
There are also running lights on a flexible strip. These devices are most often made by the Chinese. They cannot be called the best. And they are frankly weak as navigation lights. There are no aluminum boards or even radiators. The advantage is that they are sealed, but they are only suitable for Hella, which has already begun to develop similar headlights - it is worth waiting for the release of a high-quality model.
They also offer running lights in plastic glass housings. Everything here is very ambiguous. Can be purchased good model or run into a fake. And this is now not only about Chinese products, but also about well-known manufacturers. The first generation Philips running lights had excellent characteristics, however, due to overheating and poor heat dissipation plastic glass it just melted.
Lights are also sold in housings with lensed glass. This solution is the most preferable. If someone doesn’t know which daytime running lights are best to choose for a car, then this is the one the best choice. Manufacturers include Philips, Osram and others. There is both glass and aluminum, and this is the best combination.
LED plate-shaped DRLs are something to avoid. They are only suitable as a backlight. There is no protection from dust, liquids, or radiator. Service life - 3 months with intensive use.
The lights that can be installed in fog lights are the best they offer. There is a 10 W LED, lensed glass, an aluminum body and universal mounts.
The best DRL running lights: review and reviews
This review should start with brands from the Middle Kingdom, or more precisely, from Aliexpress. On the site you can find terrible kits, but there are also good ones, if not best models DRL. Good Chinese lights won't come cheap.
Golden DRL Road type 2015
These are some of the best running lights from the brothers from the Middle Kingdom. Model from 2015. The body is made of aluminum. The manufacturer claims that this solution can be used as a fog lamp, but this is not the case.
There are practically no downsides to this DRL. The power of each block is 10 W.
There are two modifications in color temperature. This warm white glow is 3000 K and cool white with a temperature of 3000 K. The device has excellent heat dissipation. The brightness of the stream is 980 lm.
The model is preferred, but it may not fit all models. As for the reviews, they say that the car with them is designated excellently. The glow is visible already from a distance of 180 meters. The opening angle complies with domestic regulations. The price is 700 rubles per block.
Philips Daylight 9
This solution is one of the best, but from a global brand. The model has all the necessary characteristics. Combined here good design and excellent visibility. This model can be installed on most cars.
The blocks use 9 diodes. Together with the latest lensed optics, the illumination angle of the road is quite large. Installation is very simple. Special latches will prevent the possibility of module theft.
The modules are equipped with electronics that are compatible with most types of transport, including electric cars. The body is traditionally made of aluminum, and the lenses are carefully polished. Car owners who use such products say that the light is very bright and the body does not heat up at all. Price - from 3500 to 5000 rubles. Now it’s clear how to choose DRLs. Running lights and low beam are required part any car, because safety depends on it.
So, we found out the car running lights, which ones are better to choose and how much they cost.