05+ DRL (Daytime Running Lights) Install OEM

This thread describes how to retrofit the factory DRL system into an '05-'11 Tacoma that did not come with factory DRL.

The factory DRL system uses the front turn signals as DRLs. They shut off when the headlights are turned on.

 

I have a question about the conditions that must be met for these lights to come on.

A little history....I have an 09 4x4 DCLB TRD Sport that I bought used about 6 months ago. I have been slowly but surely doing mods here and there and the DRL's were on the list. I noticed shortly after buying the truck that the turn signal lenses had/have some (for lack of a better word) burnt spots about 3/4" in diameter, a little above center of the lens. No big deal.

I was about to order the parts this morning for the DRL mod and remebered these spots so, I decided to look and see if the parts were already there and the previous owner had somehow disabled the DRL's. Well sure enough, everything was already there.

The previous owner had cut the green w/red stripe wire and capped the two ends with wire nuts. I removed the wire nuts and crimped on a male and female spade connector and hooked it up, then put everything back together.

Now for the question. With the engine running, should the DRL's turn on when I shift to drive (I have an automatic) or should they turn on with just the engine is running?

Right now they turn on when:

Engine running
Headlights off
Park Brake off
Regardless of shift position.

Does this sound right or should I have to be in drive for them to turn on?

Just trying to make sure because I don't know what else, if anything, the previous owner did.

Thanks for any help

 

I believe that is correct.

 

Confirmed. My DRLs come on when the engine is running, regardless of shifter position (Auto tranny).

I suspect the previous owner put in more powerful amber lights as the stock lights with DRLs will not cause any burning/melting of the housing/lenses.

 

Thanks for the replies.

I just installed LED turn signal lights so, heat shouldn't be an issue now.

Really like the way it looks now with the DRL's!

 

Sure they will.

There's a few dozen threads on the forum about this issue.
Supposedly, the issue was corrected around 2010, but there have been reports of 2011s.
Do a search for "melting" and "burned"

http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/2nd-gen-tacomas/310073-melting-headlamps.html?highlight=melting
http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/2n...ts-melting-your-lights.html?highlight=melting
http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/2n...orce-toyota-recall-fix.html?highlight=melting
http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/2n...-lenses-melted-cracked.html?highlight=melting
http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/li...recall-petition-urgent.html?highlight=melting
http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/li...-new-headlight-options.html?highlight=melting
http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/lighting/300843-2011-headlights-melting.html?highlight=melting
http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/2nd-gen-tacomas/293912-drl-bulb.html?highlight=melting
http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/li...-bhlm-due-melting-dtrl.html?highlight=melting

 

Would this be the same set up for a '11?

 

Wiring changed in '12

 

How long did it take to install?

 

Just did this mod last night; took me about 35-40 mins.

 

Just did this mod as well! Thanks to the OP for the tutorial!

 

I found a good deal on the DRL Kit here - $52.00 plus shipping.

http://puretacoma.com/electronics-c...-for-20052011-tacoma-p-4724.html#.UzsgLv9OXcc

 

Fair deal.

Buck cheaper from Camelback and you'd be supporting a dealer that supports the forum.

 

just checked. camelback shipping is cheaper. total is $59.70 shipped. I think I'll order one.

well, actually it will be about the same if $3 handling fee is added.

 

Having serious trouble removing the relay switch on a 08 tacoma. i cant get it to budge. anyone else have a problem with this? hows it come out?

 

there is no lock or clip to unhook, you really just need to get a grip and pull it straight out.
I used one of these tools. just be gentle.

 

Another success story!
Took me about 30 minutes.


Thanks a lot to previous posters!

 

Can anyone show me what the harness looks this I'm getting someone to pull the relay and harness but am not sure how to describe it to him.

 

First I just want to tell you that is a great write up on how to install the relay and get the DRL without cutting a single wire! I now have that done on my '07 Tacoma but have read some reviews about the standard 4127 bulb melting the lens.
Is there a LED light that can replace the regular turn signal lights that I can get that doesn't need a load resistor.

Thanks in advance for your help!

Jerry

 

First I just want to tell you that is a great write up on how to install the relay and get the DRL without cutting a single wire! I now have that done on my '07 Tacoma but have read some reviews about the standard 4127 bulb melting the lens.
Is there a LED light that can replace the regular turn signal lights that I can get that doesn't need a load resistor.

Thanks in advance for your help!

Jerry