Today, one of the most relevant and frequently asked questions is whether daytime running lights. After the adopted legislation obliged all drivers to make trips even in the daytime with the headlights on, they became one of the most important and sought-after goods on the world market. Drivers turn to the option of independently separate modules, since they have a number of advantages, including lower power consumption, as well as the brightness of the glow and the duration of work.

It is worth noting that after these modules have become so popular, drivers do not miss the opportunity and equip their cars with DRLs. Quite often there were cases when drivers put daytime running lights on cars, but they were not provided for by the factory design of the vehicle. In this case, all dimensions, technical parameters of modules, light and everything else were taken into account, but checks and technical inspections did not accept such an upgrade.

This is explained by the fact that if the car is not regularly provided 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 GOST nor the traffic rules state that you cannot put daytime running lights on your car.

Vehicles that are not originally equipped with daytime running lights from the factory can be retrofitted with DRLs. To do this, today there are a huge number of special kits on sale. Each of them has two modules that are placed on the right and left of the vehicles, wiring, as well as a special unit that ensures the stability of the automatic switching on and attenuation of the glow intensity. An example of such DRLs are, which are shown in the figure on the left. It should be noted that since September 10, 2009 the resolution Russian Federation No. 720, according to which the installation of DRLs on individual vehicles that are not equipped with them from the factory is legal and fully permitted. BUT! To do this, you need to collect a complete package of documents and arrange an intervention in the design and integrity of the car, which, if desired, is done very easily and quickly. Thus, if you approach the issue correctly and study all the facets of the legality of DRLs, then you can quickly and without problems install a stylish device on a car, moreover, licensed.

Necessary in order to highlight and express the car in the daytime. Thanks to this, the catchiness of the car increases, and, accordingly, the safety of the driver. Lights are placed on the front of the car. But before arming a car with such a device, you definitely need to familiarize yourself with the legislation. You need to find out all the rules and regulations of traffic rules and GOST, so in this article we will give the main nuances of working with lanterns. The law on DRL in Russia since 2011 obliges all drivers to drive in the daytime with headlights on. It is worth noting that today daytime running lights are classified not only as separate light elements, but also as the light of passing headlights, fog lights. According to statistics, after the law on running lights was adopted, the number of traffic accidents decreased by almost half.

Today, regarding daytime lights, there are requirements that are regulated by many legal and by-laws. Therefore, if you decide to put daytime running lights on your car, then you definitely need to carefully read each item 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. It indicates all the changes that were made to the Decree of the Council of Ministers - the Government of the Russian Federation No. 1090 of October 23, 1993.

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, on all vehicles, dipped beam headlights or .

GOST for running lights R 41.87-99 prescribes that daytime running lights are officially approved on motor vehicles. Further, for daytime running lights, GOST R 41.48-2004 of the same provision, but with amendments to the definitions of what DRL is, based on the international standards of the UN Economic Commission for Europe No. 48 states:

"Uniform provisions concerning the certification of vehicles, in relation to the installation of external motor vehicle lighting and light signaling devices."

Changes were introduced on January 1, 2005, and they replace the provisions of the previous standards DRL 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 running lights that necessarily comply with UNECE requirements.

According to this requirement, on all types of lights, as well as on cars, there must be 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 home-made.

DRL installation according to GOST

In the Russian Federation, there are special standards for DRLs that drivers equipped with separate warning lights must adhere to. It is worth noting that the standards for installing DRLs in Russia and in Europe are slightly different.

• The installation height of daytime lights, relative to the ground, should be within 25-150cm.
• From each other independent blocks daylight running lights must be at a minimum distance of 60 cm. The only exception is for cars characterized by a small body up to 1300 cm, therefore a distance between the lights of 40 cm is allowed.
• The radiation area, that is, the area that the DRL light covers, should be in the range from 25 to 200 centimeters squared.
• The brightness of DRL GOST or the luminous intensity provided by daylight lights is from 400 to 800 Cd.

Any installation of running lights in accordance with GOST must comply with the above requirements and rules. If at least one parameter deviates from the norm, then if you are stopped on the road by law enforcement agencies, you can not only get a fine, but also lose your car, since in rare cases it can be driven to a fine parking lot.

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. The daylights of these companies differ not only in compliance with GOST of Russia, but also provide maximum effect, and the highest degree safety when traveling during the daytime. When passing a scheduled check of a car at a service station, there are no problems, as often happens with those options for lights that were produced by car owners on their own.

The only thing that causes problems and inconveniences if DRLs are installed according to Russian GOST is interference with the integrity of the car structure. This is inherent mainly in old car models that were produced before the adoption of the law with the obligatory inclusion of lights during the day when driving. That is, if you need to install DRL on a car where it 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 carry out more complex technical work on their installation. It will definitely be necessary to make cuts or cutouts in the bumper in order to accurately position the light modules for day trips. How to make a DRL with your own hands, as well as install and connect it in a car, you can find out in.

11 Comment on "Laws of DRL in Russia: GOST and SDA"

Ivan - 19.12.2016

QUESTION: Is there any standard for the DRL light beam, is it possible to use 2x DRL mode lamps + turn. _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ANSWER: Hello, Ivan! According to TR, Appendix 5 1.3.29. Requirements for daytime running lights: 1.3.29.1. Daytime running lights, if fitted, shall come on automatically when the ignition switch is in a position that does not preclude engine operation. The daytime running lights shall turn off automatically when the headlights are switched on, except when the flashing of the headlights is used to give brief warning lights. Thus, it is illegal to use 2x regime lamps DRL + turn.

Pavel - 14.11.2016

QUESTION: Good afternoon! Please tell me if it is possible in the center passenger car, put DRL, according to the principle of an SUV, i.e. a kind of headlight with LEDs 40 cm long? _________________________________________________________________________________________________ ANSWER: Hello, Pavel! Your question is quite delicate and our specialists who are engaged in the installation of DRLs will be able to answer it. In order for them to contact you and consult, leave your contact details.

Dima - 04.11.2016

QUESTION: can I independently install a DRL on a VAZ 21099 without collecting a bunch of documents for permission to change the design ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ANSWER: Hello Dmitry. The installation of DRL is the introduction of changes into the design of the vehicle; this is indicated in GOST R 41.48-2004 and the 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 the headlight of my car? As many do now. And will it be legal or not? Thank you ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ANSWER: Hello, Alexey, thank you for such a topical 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 the employees of the State traffic inspectorate as an administrative offense provided for by Part 1 of Article 12.5 of the Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation.

Konstantin - 15.08.2016

QUESTION: Judging by the GOST standards, installation on motorcycles is in principle not possible? Is it possible to legalize such a DRL installation (see photo at the link)? http://pp.vk.me/c625817/v625817542/1bf6b/8Ib0hPvpEB0.jpg________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ANSWER: Hello, Konstantin. The question concerning the legalization of DRL is rather sensitive. For more reliable information, leave your contact number and a qualified specialist will consult you over the phone.

Vladimir - 29.06.2016

QUESTION: Good afternoon. The question is very interesting: is it possible to use as DRL a high beam of half the glow of the nominal value, or 30%, as some manufacturers of auto accessories offer? ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ANSWER: Hello, Vladimir! According to the rules of the traffic rules of Russia, it is allowed to use a high beam as a DRL at half the glow of the nominal value, or 30%. With the correct connection scheme, turning on the high beam can be made automatic. For more detailed information, read this article https://website/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 the standard headlight, orange, but according to GOST 2004, DRLs should be white, but the front turn signals are not DRLs directly, but combined (or grouped) lighting devices that work in different modes, can there be problems with the traffic police about this. I just know that on American-made cars from the factory, instead of DRL, turn signals or high-beam lamps are used in the so-called "floor glow" 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.

As you know, after the adopted law of the SDA in 2010, all vehicles must drive with daytime running lights in the daytime. If the car is not provided with running lights by the factory, then they must be installed taking into account the requirements and GOST, or drive, including dipped beam or foglights. This bill in the SDA made a lot of noise and many drivers began to actively discuss this issue on forums on the Internet.

What exactly is said in the traffic rules about running lights in 2018? Are there GOST requirements for installing DRLs? Is there a penalty for daytime running lights? With these and other important issues that concern motorists, let's try to figure it out in this article.

It's probably no secret to anyone that a car with daytime running lights on attracts more citizens' attention than a car with no headlights on. It is for this reason that the traffic police inspectorate proposed to amend the traffic rules. An alternative in the absence of DRLs on the vehicle are low beams or fog lights.

When comparing running lights with existing headlights in a car, DRL has a number of advantages. In order for the headlights to burn, a mandatory supply of electricity is required, which is generated by a generator. While driving on the highway, the generator, due to the constant speed, actively recharges the battery. In this case, the headlights are not energy-consuming. If the vehicle is moving around the city, where there are regular traffic jams and traffic lights at which you need to stand idle, then under these conditions the battery partially loses its charge and is discharged. The generator does not have time to recharge the battery, and the load of all electrical devices turned on makes itself felt.

An old vehicle may not be able to cope with such a constant electrical load, so it can quickly fail as a generator with a battery, and there may be problems with wiring.

DRLs consume significantly less electricity than car headlight bulbs. In this regard, the factories began to build daytime running lights into the front lighting devices. As for the parking lights, their light brightness is much low, so they will simply be invisible and, accordingly, there will be no effect from them. That is why they cannot be used for the place of DRL.

DRL according to GOST

The technical regulations of the vehicle contain clear information on the definition and requirements for installing DRLs on a vehicle.

DRL - headlights definitely white light with possible shades of yellow or blue, which are installed in the front of the car.

For proper installation, it is necessary to comply with GOST daytime running lights:

• installed in front of the vehicle;
• the distance from the ground should not be less than 25 cm and not exceed a height of one and a half meters;
• they must be located at least 60 cm apart;
• from the edge of the car body to the place of installation of the lights should not be more than 400 mm.

If the vehicle does not have running lights and they were not supposed to be installed by the factory, then the driver must turn on either the dipped beam or the fog lamps.

The driver can, at his discretion, put DRLs if they are not. On sale now big choice, according to the type they are of three types: with incandescent lamps, with halogen lamps and LED bulbs. Of course, LED or LED-DRLs are the leader because they are energy-saving and require 10 times less electricity.

What does the SDA say about running lights?

Based on the traffic rules of 2016, namely paragraph 19.5, all cars while driving, both in the city and on the highway, must have DRLs turned on or low beams or fog lights. By following these requirements, you can ensure the safety of pedestrians and motorists on the road.

If the rules for using daytime running lights are not followed, then the fine for such a violation for the driver will be 500 rubles (Article 12.20 of the Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation of 2016).

Based on the traffic rules, it is necessary to use DRL:

• if minor children are being transported;
• on motor vehicles, as it is difficult to see from afar;
• when transporting oversized or dangerous and explosive substances;
• on minibuses and public transport to attract special attention.

How to install DRL?

You can mount LED running lights on your own and without resorting to the services of auto electricians and specialists. To do this, you need to follow a few simple rules. Of course, LED devices are installed in a set - two pieces. The main task during installation is to properly connect them to the car's power supply. It is necessary that they light up when the ignition is turned on and vice versa turn off when the ignition is turned off.

An example connection diagram for daytime running devices is shown in the following image:

Now on sale in the markets there are a large number of different LED DRLs ready to be connected immediately. In the accompanying manual, as a rule, everything is clearly stated.

Finally

Daytime running lights are designed to attract the attention of road users. This provision of the SDA contributes to the maintenance of safety traffic. It should be borne in mind that in the event of an accident, the victim, with detected DRLs not turned on, may be found guilty.

The popularity of DRL is growing every year. Many motorists who do not have modern daytime running lights in the factory version of the car seek to install them on the vehicle. This can be done independently, without involving specialists. In addition to their main function, DRLs also have decent decorative properties. They improve appearance cars, making it more interesting and noticeable. But do not forget that their main function is to increase road safety by improving the visibility of the vehicle for other road users. Therefore, it is important to understand and know which daytime running lights are best to put on your car.

What is it and how does it work

All experts and ordinary motorists will say that DRLs need to be carefully selected in terms of quality and performance and installed better. This will really increase the visibility of your car and reduce the risk of accidents and accidents. Studies have proven that installing DRLs does indeed reduce the number of traffic accidents. But specifically, no one can say which running lights are better to put. The range on the market is huge, and this variety makes drivers doubt the correctness of their choice. To avoid mistakes and understand exactly how to choose best model DRL, you must first study the whole essence and principle of operation of the device. And then you will find out which daytime running lights are better and what they are now advised to buy with the current assortment. Believe me, there are much more car owners who bought really high-quality lights than those who made a mistake with the choice. This is where you shouldn't make any mistakes.

Let's start with the principle of operation. When you start the car, the voltage begins to rise and reaches the operating level. At a value of 13.2 to 13.7 V, the voltage is fixed and stored by the sensor, which is responsible for the DRL. When the motor is turned off, the voltage drops to 0V, causing the lights to turn off. Also, DRLs are turned off when the dipped headlights are turned on. They cannot be used at the same time. Basically, daytime running lights are based on LEDs. They are considered the most, because the best DRLs are made from LEDs. Diodes are placed in a special case, which is protected from water, moisture, dust, etc. Manufacturers also use durable shockproof shells, which protects against mechanical damage. Since DRLs are always located quite close to the road surface, high level protection is very important to them.

Types of DRL

Many perceive DRL as a special block of LED optics, which stands apart from all other lighting equipment. But in fact, 4 devices can be called daytime running lights;

1. Near world. Not the most acceptable, but acceptable option. Many countries impose increased requirements for the operation of near optics as running lights. It must necessarily illuminate part of the road or curb.
2. Far light. Also not the best choice, because when using the high beam as a DRL, it should be muted and shine parallel to the roadway. Even distant headlights should not blind oncoming traffic. When it approaches, you have to constantly turn off the optics.
3. . In Russia, traffic rules allow the use of fog lights as daytime running lights. But in many other states it is prohibited. Experts believe that foglights have their own specifics, aimed at helping in difficult weather conditions. They are not powerful enough to fully fulfill the role of DRL.
4. Separate independent headlights. The most acceptable and optimal option. Such optics are easy to install with your own hands, they are inexpensive, practically do not consume the car's electricity and do not depend on the operation of other lighting equipment. DRLs are autonomous and have enough power to keep you visible to other road users.

As you can see, among all the DRL options, it is the independent optics unit that is the most optimal and acceptable. This explains such a high demand for LED running lights. Also, do not forget that back in 2010, a decree was adopted according to which cars must necessarily move on public roads during daylight hours with daytime running lights on. Therefore, motorists, regardless of current weather conditions, should always turn on DRL during the day. If they are not provided by the factory on the car, then on your own, or use the PTF or dipped headlights. But given the shortcomings of such a solution, it is still better to set yourself up with full-fledged independent DRLs.

Top Producers

A large number of companies are engaged in the production of daytime running lights. But there are obvious leaders in this market segment, which account for the bulk of sales. A certain amount of success can be attributed to competent advertising and professional marketing. But still, the rating of navigation lights is headed by brands that have gained popularity not just because of good advertising. They are in demand due to the quality of their products, reliability, reliability and efficiency of their DRLs. The best optics used during the day, that is, the best daytime running lights, are currently produced by the following companies.

The market is full of various offers for DRLs from China. Many motorists believe that the manufacturer does not play a special role, that is, you can save money and take running lights. But in fact, the overpayment for the products of a well-known manufacturer is fully justified. Yes, such DRLs can cost 500 - 1000 rubles more. However, you get a guarantee of quality and confidence that the purchased DRL kit will definitely serve the stated period. Problems often arise with Chinese models, they fail, they do not shine efficiently enough, or some of the diodes burn out.

DRL rating

We offer to consider several of the most popular and sought-after DRL models, which are in high demand in the automotive market. Here we are talking mainly about the products of leaders among manufacturers. But the rating includes devices from another brand, which also deserves attention.

1. DayLight 8. Developed by Philips. These are LED daytime running lights that consumers consider to be one of the best solutions at present. The LED lights are housed in a durable aluminum housing. It also acts as a cooling radiator in parallel. This DRL is IP67 rated. Structurally, the daytime running lights consist of 8 high power LEDs. This is universal device, which can be used on almost any machine. The stated service life is 10 years. Their cost varies from 4 to 7 thousand rubles.
   
2. LEDriving FOG. Osram's product, which is based on LED lights. In fact, these are fog lights, but they perfectly function as daytime running lights. The device is highly economical. The outer protective glass perfectly protects the diodes from external influences, and is not afraid of contact with abrasive materials. The light spreads evenly and brightly. The degree of protection also corresponds to the IP67 value. The device is equipped with an intelligent control system that allows you to automatically switch to daytime running lights and fog lights. The only drawback is the high cost. In some cases, the price reaches 14 thousand rubles;
   
3. DRL D70. A more budget solution from EGO Light. DRLs are made in the form of a round body made of aluminum. The case additionally cools the LEDs, acting as a cooling radiator. Each LED has a power of 3 W, which is absolutely enough for any car. Lenses are made of polycarbonate, which guarantees high durability. The design has universal mounts, which allows you to install DRL on different cars. Lights turn on and off automatically. A set of such lamps will cost the buyer about 4 thousand rubles.
   
4. DRL 120P18. Also developed by Ego Light. Daytime running lights received a rectangular body. And in this case, we are talking about a plastic base, where ventilation holes are provided to ensure cooling. Each emitter is equipped with 18 LEDs, the total power of which is 5 watts. This allows you to get a good level of brightness. The solution wins due to its low cost. A set of such daytime running lights will cost 2.5 thousand rubles.
   
5. DRL 101. Osram's product, which is very popular with consumers. In many ways, this demand is due to the original design, complemented by excellent technical specifications. Light-filled tubes are used here, which look impressive and work very efficiently. Each lamp used produces 400 lumens, and the created color temperature is at the level of 6000 K. One DRL unit has 7.5 volts of power.
   
6. DayLight 4. A popular DRL model from Philips. This is a cheaper alternative to the DayLight 8. The low price is explained more by the design than by the weak technical characteristics. Such DRLs are considered standard, since they are made in the form of a conventional box with LEDs. But if the visual component is not in your first place, this model will definitely interest you. This is a reliable, durable and efficient optics, focused on the budget segment of buyers.
   
7. LEdayFlex. The last in the list, but far from the last in the ranking, was a product from Hella. A very popular DRL model based on 5 LEDs. This design can be used on a wide variety of vehicles. Buyers get the opportunity to independently choose how the layout of the diodes in the block will be located. The color temperature reaches 6000 K, and the power corresponds to 7.2 volts. They look original, have a strong and durable body, and are also distinguished by excellent reliability.
   

The range of daytime running lights is now huge. This allows you to choose the optimal design for any car and different financial capabilities of the buyer. But still, in the case of DRLs, it is better to give preference to proven models and well-established manufacturers. Exchange for cheap Chinese devices not worth it, because they do not guarantee quality, reliability and durability. DRLs are considered a useful and necessary addition to many vehicles where daytime running lights are not available from the factory. Use together with a separate DRL low beam or

Increasingly, there are cars on the roads equipped with daytime running lights. Moreover, about half were mounted in violation of technical regulations. How to install DRL correctly so as not to blind other road users and not attract the attention of inspectors?

DRL regulation - GOST R 41.48-2004

Since Russia has accepted the terms of the European Convention on Road Traffic, the requirements of UNECE Regulation No. 48, reflected in GOST R 41.48-2004, which replaced the outdated “uniform prescriptions” 41.87-99, apply to the Russian fleet. What does the legislation tell us about additional lighting devices?

Rules of the road in paragraph 19.5. expressly allow the use of DRL:

“during daylight hours, all vehicles in motion … must have dipped-beam headlamps or daytime running lamps.”

It would seem - put, connect - and go!

But the same GOST prescribes a special location, mode of operation and brightness of running lights. And possible interpretations are explained by the Decree of the Government of the Russian Federation No. 316 of May 10, 2009, amending the Decree of the Council of Ministers No. 1090 of October 23, 1993.

Therefore, before installing daytime running lights on our own, we will study the requirements of the legislative acts listed above.

No desire to delve into boring articles? Then we briefly formulate the main points regarding the rules of installation and connection.

• Height from the road surface - from 25 cm to one and a half meters;
• Distance from the outer dimensions of the car - no more than 400 mm;
• distance between internal parts buildings - at least 60 centimeters;
• Brightness - from 400 to 800 candela.

The mode of operation is with the ignition on and the dipped / main beam headlights off, but with the possibility of “high beam flashing” retained. Thus, the only correct connection option is to turn on the DRL when the key is moved to the “ignition” position and automatically turn off when the parking lights are turned on.

DRL operation together with BS headlights is unacceptable! Especially in the dark.

How to install and connect running lights

Installing additional lighting fixtures does not require an installation center license. Therefore, we can connect them ourselves, guided by the instructions.

To stay within the dimensions, you may have to cut the bumper. Or fix the lamps in the niche of the air intake of the false radiator grille with its sufficient dimensions. Let's direct the horizontal axis parallel to the roadway. Then we move on to electrical.

Method 1

We connect the electrical part through the fuse to the "plus" that appears when the ignition is turned on. In the wire break, using contacts 30 and 87a, we install a five-pin relay, which will be controlled from the parking lights. Thus, when the key is turned to the "ignition" position, the DRLs will shine, but go out when the "dimensions" are turned on. We fix the negative wire to the nearest reliable "mass".

Method 2

In a situation with a ready-made control unit, we attach the "minus" to the body. Permanent "plus" - to the battery, controlling the inclusion - to the ignition. Disabling - to the "dimensions".

In any case, remember the need to install a fuse.

Advantages and disadvantages of DRL

On the Internet, disputes do not stop - is it worth installing "daylight", or is it pampering and a tribute to fashion?

Proponents make the following arguments:

• Electricity consumption compared to "halogens" is negligible;
• The service life of low beam lamps increases, fuel is saved;
• The machine is better visible in bright sunlight;
• The car seems "cooler", especially if the LEDs are built into the headlights.

Opponents of installing non-standard lighting devices are guided by other principles:

• Generators of modern cars are designed for a regular load, including the lights on. In addition, on many models, the factory DRL (day running lights) turns on the lamps at 70% incandescence, so there is no need to talk about reducing the service life.
• The lamps themselves cost money, but they do not last forever. And for this amount you can buy low beam lamps for 10 years in advance. And the economy of gasoline is within the measurement error.
• From a design point of view, someone who understands modifications will immediately see a foreign design. And those for whom all cars are the same will not pay attention to the lights.

Many motorists who installed DRLs on their own did not read the Rules. Therefore, it is not uncommon to see a "UFO" on the road, in which the dipped beam shines at the same time, and DRLs work. And this is a traffic violation. In which, according to tradition, the “evil inspector” will be to blame, but not the handyman motorist.

There are no ready-made solutions to the issue of car tuning, everyone improves the car to their liking. Or leave the factory equipment.

The main thing is that decorations do not affect traffic safety, do not blind oncoming drivers and pedestrians, comply with traffic rules, and do not provoke emergency situations.

Be careful and careful on the roads!