TxNative

I have a new 2008 C4S and have the ability to program the headlights on (at reduced power) for DRL or off. Any reasons why I should turn them on or off?

mdrums

I just did this on a BMW X3 I just got...I had them programed to be on as I figure people will see me better. I certainly notice cars coming at me more with the lights on.

RonCT

Opening can of worms... I've been watching the DRL debate since invented and there are still experts in the industry that do not believe they are of benefit. I remember reading an article about how they (any power use) reduces fuel economy. In my wife's Volvo wagon it's not an owner option to have them on or off unless you pay -- so she left them on. In a couple of years of ownership, 2 headlamps have gone out, causing her to have to go to the dealer out of the normal maintenance cycle. Fully covered under warranty, just a pain...

I like to control my car and flip the lights on whenever there's reduced visibility.

TxNative

Good point. I had not thought about wearing out the headlight bulbs. I have DRL on two Lexus, one a 2001, and never had a problem. Both of them use the High Beam bulb at reduced output.

Since the Porsche allows owner control of the function, I will probably try it for a while and see if I think it is helpful.

Crazy Canuck

DRLs are mandatory in Canada.

Not a big deal.

It is easier to see cars coming in the opposite direction with lights on.

Leader

Daytime Running Lights is an issue jam-packed with data on both sides of the argument.
Many feel they reduce accidents because of increased vehicle visibility.
Others say the statistics just don't prove it - and in fact the daytime use of headlights (even at half power) is distracting.
TxNative started this thread. His 997 is Silver. I think if I had a Silver car - one of the least visible cars on the road - I'd run with my DRLs on, even though I'm not crazy about the way they look.

Edgy01

Some have also found that as more and more cars are operating with DRLs the advantage goes down,--you no longer stick out with them. You're just in the crowd.

Coochas

For me it's kind of moot: I go to work when it's dark and I come home when it's dark.
Woe is me.
Besides, speed yellow is like having the lights on all the time.

David A

Off! Turn them on yourself under bad weather.

BMWDavid

I agree!

I really find them annoying on other cars and I sure don't want them on mine. In fact they look rather silly. On my '06 GTI they come pre-programed on. I asked the dealer to turn them off and was refused. Lots of BS that they could not be turned off. When I said it could be done with the VAG-COM then they realized they had a smart customer but still refused.

Long story short I found via Vortex site a tech willing to turn them off.

As long as you have a choice leave them off.

rebe1

DRL = sidemarkers on = cleared out sidemarkers orange again

rdstemler

At least you have a choice. Some cars are always on and you can't turn them off!!!

Viva la choice!!!

Bob Rouleau

DRL - Yes! Don't assume the guy coming towards you on a two lane road can see you as well as you see him.

stumpjumper

I like daytime running lights

EXCEPT when the car is driven by an idiot who forgets to turn on his lights at night, because his headlights are on and he can see he thinks all is good... except that he has no tail lights

on a dark night it's bad, but in fog, rain, or snow it's down right deadly

RJA in VA

Somewhat off topic, but can someone explain why Corvettes use the Parking Lights like DRLs? I always thought these were for Parking, not Driving?