This guide explains the typical process for replacing externally accessible daytime running light boards in original-equipment headlights. It covers both single-color and RGB+W configurations while highlighting the checks that vary by vehicle, headlight design, and product version.
Is this the correct guide for your vehicle?
Use this guide when the product page for your vehicle links here and the DRL module can be accessed from the outside of the headlight. Depending on the vehicle, reaching the module may still require removal of a wheel-arch liner, bumper, trim panel, or the complete headlight assembly.
This guide applies
The DRL board is mounted to a removable module or heat sink that can be accessed without separating the headlight lens from the housing.
A different procedure is required
If the boards sit inside a sealed headlight, do not use this guide as the complete procedure. Refer to our headlight-opening guide and consider professional installation.
DRLs Direct replacement boards are intended for the original headlight assemblies listed on the relevant product page. Aftermarket headlights, regional equipment variants, previous repairs, or non-standard modules may use different boards, connectors, or mounting points. Confirm compatibility before disassembly.
Before starting the installation
Read the complete procedure before removing any parts. The product-specific instructions and the vehicle manufacturer's service information take priority over this general guide.
Switch off the ignition, remove the key or keep the keyless fob away from the vehicle, and allow the lighting components to cool. Follow the manufacturer's prescribed shutdown and 12-volt battery-disconnection procedure before unplugging lighting modules. On hybrid and electric vehicles, never work on or near high-voltage components or orange cables.
Typical tools and preparation items
Exact fasteners vary by model. Check the vehicle and product instructions before selecting tools.
- Correct Torx bits, sockets, and screwdrivers
- Plastic trim-removal tools where required
- Clean, lint-free or nitrile gloves
- Work light and a clean, dry workspace
- Parts tray for screws and small components
- Automotive wiring tools for RGB+W installation
Do not force a connector, board, module, or trim component. If the supplied board shape, connector position, mounting holes, or wiring differs from the original part, pause the installation and contact DRLs Direct with clear photographs of the headlight label, original module, and original board.
Installing single-color DRL boards
Single-color boards generally reuse the original module connection. Access and fastener locations vary, but the board-replacement sequence is usually similar.
Installation overview video
The video demonstrates the general replacement principle. It is not a substitute for vehicle-specific service information.
-
Access and remove the DRL module
- Identify the correct DRL module on the rear, top, or underside of the headlight. Compare its position with the product-specific instructions.
- Remove only the trim, wheel-arch liner, bumper components, or headlight parts required for safe access. Follow the vehicle manufacturer's removal procedure for these components.
- Photograph the module, connectors, and cable routing before disconnecting anything. Release connector locks by their tabs; never pull on the wires.
- Remove the module fasteners with the correct tool, support the module, and lift it away without damaging its gasket or the headlight housing.
Example module location. Position and access method vary by headlight. 
Keep the original fasteners and gasket clean for reassembly. -
Remove the original board from the heat sink
- Place the module on a clean, static-safe work surface. Note the original board orientation, connector position, and attachment method before removal.
- Disconnect the board and inspect it for screws, clips, and factory thermal adhesive. Some boards are bonded only; others are additionally secured with one or more screws. Remove every screw or retaining point before attempting to lift the board.
- If the board remains bonded, warm the rear of the metal heat sink gently with a heat gun on a low setting. Keep the heat gun moving and apply only enough heat to soften the factory thermal adhesive. Protect connectors, plastic parts, seals, and nearby electronics from direct heat.
- Starting at an accessible board edge, work gradually with a small plastic trim-removal tool or a small flat-head screwdriver held at a shallow angle. Lift the board carefully without bending it or scoring the metal heat-sink surface. If the adhesive does not release, stop and apply a little more gentle heat rather than increasing the prying force.
- Remove all remaining adhesive from the metal mounting area with a suitable non-damaging scraper. The replacement board must sit completely flat; do not leave adhesive ridges or scrape grooves into the heat sink.
- Finish by wiping the metal mounting surface with a clean lint-free microfiber cloth. If further degreasing is required, use a small amount of isopropyl alcohol on the metal area only, keep it away from plastics, seals, and electronics, and allow the surface to dry completely.
Control heat and prying force carefullyNever use an open flame, concentrate the heat gun in one position, or pry against a board that is still secured by a screw. Wear suitable gloves and allow the module to cool before handling temperature-sensitive components.
Identify every screw, retaining point, and bonded area before lifting the board. 
The replacement board must sit flat on the prepared mounting surface. -
Position and secure the replacement board
- Compare the replacement board with the original one. Confirm the outline, mounting points, LED positions, and connector orientation before removing any protective backing.
- If the supplied board has a pre-applied mounting or thermal interface, remove its protective film without touching the exposed surface.
- Align the board carefully and lower it straight onto the heat sink. Apply even pressure only where permitted by the product instructions.
- Reinstall the original or supplied fasteners evenly. Do not add glue, sealant, thermal paste, or extra tape unless the product-specific instructions explicitly require it.
Verify alignment before pressing down a pre-applied mounting interface. -
Reconnect and reinstall the module
- Reconnect the board and module plugs in their original positions. Each connector should seat fully and its lock should engage without force.
- Inspect the module gasket for dirt, twisting, cuts, or compression damage. A damaged or incorrectly seated seal can allow moisture into the headlight.
- Place the module squarely against the housing and start all fasteners by hand. Tighten them evenly to the vehicle or headlight manufacturer's specification; do not overtighten plastic mounting points.
The module and gasket must sit evenly against the headlight housing. -
Perform a controlled function test
- Restore the 12-volt electrical system using the manufacturer's prescribed reconnection and wake-up procedure.
- Activate the DRLs and compare both headlights. Check for consistent light output, stable operation, correct color, and dashboard warnings.
- If a board does not illuminate, flickers, becomes unusually hot, smells abnormal, or triggers a warning, switch the system off immediately and recheck compatibility, connectors, orientation, and wiring.
- Once the test is successful, switch the vehicle off again before reinstalling any remaining trim, wheel-arch, bumper, or headlight parts.
Confirm correct operation before completing the vehicle reassembly.
Installing RGB+W DRL boards
RGB+W boards add a controller, separate wiring, and app-based control to the board-replacement process. Their brightness and operating behaviour may differ from the original white DRLs. Professional installation is recommended unless you are experienced with automotive electrical systems.
The correct switched power source, fuse rating, grounding point, and cable routing depend on the vehicle and supplied controller. Follow the wiring diagram included with your kit. Do not connect to an unidentified wire or fuse position, and do not bypass circuit protection.
RGB+W system overview
This video shows the controller and app concept. Wiring details in the supplied diagram and vehicle-specific service information take priority.
-
Install the RGB+W boards
Replace the original boards using the same mechanical principles described above, while following the RGB+W product instructions for board and connector orientation. Before finally tightening the heat sink or module, determine how the board cables will leave the headlight area and reach the Bluetooth controller without being folded, twisted, stretched, or exposed to heat.
Install each RGB+W board in the correct position and orientation before routing its cable. -
Route the RGB+W cables out of the headlight
The RGB+W board cables must pass from the board and heat-sink area to the external Bluetooth controller. The correct exit method depends on the module, dust cap, headlight housing, and supplied cable design. Follow the method shown in the product-specific instructions whenever one is provided.
Use the appropriate method for the headlightA flat cable can often pass beneath the module seal. Other headlights may provide a suitable dust-cap or service opening, while some installations require a small sealed pass-through. Do not force the cable through a route that prevents a cover, gasket, or module from closing correctly.
Method A: Flat cable beneath the module seal
- Identify a smooth route from the board to the outer edge of the heat sink, clear of screw holes, locating pins, sharp edges, and raised plastic features.
- Carefully lift the removable sealing ring, position the cable flat against the heat sink, and guide it down and outward at the intended exit point.
- Refit the sealing ring over the cable and around the complete module. The cable must have no fold, twist, overlap, or sharp bend, and the seal must not be rolled or displaced.
- Align the module and start every screw by hand. Tighten the screws gradually and evenly so the heat sink is drawn in flat; never use excessive torque on the plastic housing.
Method B: Existing dust cap or service opening
Where the headlight provides a suitable rear dust cap, service cover, or existing protected opening, route the cable through that location without interfering with the cap closure, original seal, headlight ventilation, or nearby components. Protect the cable from sharp edges and ensure the cover remains secure and weather-resistant after reassembly.
Method C: Sealed pass-through when required
If no suitable existing route is available and the model-specific installation requires one, create only a small pass-through in an appropriate non-structural area. A removable dust cap is generally preferable to the main housing when the design permits.
- Remove or fully protect nearby parts before drilling and keep all swarf and debris out of the headlight.
- Avoid structural ribs, mounting points, optics, electronics, vents, and original sealing surfaces.
- Drill only the size required for a suitable waterproof rubber wire gland or cable gland, deburr the opening, and install the gland securely.
- Where required, seal the completed pass-through with a material compatible with the headlight housing and cable. Confirm that the cable is supported, not crushed, and cannot pull against the board connector.
Stop if the selected route will not seal correctlyDo not leave an unprotected drilled edge or an open hole in the dust cap or housing. If the module remains raised, the cap cannot close, the gasket is displaced, or unusually high force is required, correct the cable route before continuing. Drilling is irreversible and is best handled by a professional installer when you are uncertain.
Use the model-appropriate route: beneath the module seal, through a protected dust-cap opening, or through a waterproof cable gland when required. -
Plan the controller position and cable routing
Select a secure mounting position away from exhaust components, extreme heat, moving parts, sharp edges, pressure-wash exposure, and areas where water can collect. Route cables along protected paths and secure them without pulling on connectors.
Mount the controller away from heat, moving parts, sharp edges, and direct water exposure. -
Connect the boards to the controller
Connect the left and right board harnesses to the corresponding controller outputs shown in the supplied diagram. Align keyed connectors correctly, engage their locks, and keep every connection protected from moisture and mechanical strain.
Connect both board harnesses to the matching controller outputs shown in the supplied wiring diagram. -
Connect fused power and ground
Connect the controller only to the power source and ground specified for the kit and vehicle. A qualified installer should verify the circuit with appropriate test equipment, provide the required fuse protection, and confirm that the controller switches off as intended so it cannot discharge the battery.
Use the specified fused power source and a suitable ground point for the controller installation. -
Pair the app and test every function
Install the app identified by the QR code or instructions supplied with your controller. Pair through the app when directed rather than through the phone's general Bluetooth menu. Test white output, color selection, brightness, effects, controller shutdown, and both headlights before securing the final trim panels.
Test white output, colors, brightness, effects, and controller shutdown before final reassembly.
Final inspection checklist
Complete these checks before returning the vehicle to normal use.
Mechanical checks
- Boards sit flat and are secured as specified
- Connectors are fully seated and locked
- Module gaskets are clean, undamaged, and correctly positioned
- The RGB+W cable exit follows the product- or model-specific route
- Any cable beneath a seal lies flat without folds, twists, or overlap
- Any modified dust cap or pass-through is protected and weather-resistant
- The heat sink and covers sit evenly with no cable in a screw or locating point
- Cables are protected from heat, sharp edges, and moving parts
- All removed fasteners and trim components are reinstalled
Functional checks
- Both headlights illuminate consistently
- No flickering, intermittent operation, or unusual heat is present
- No new lighting or electrical warning appears
- RGB+W controller and app functions respond correctly
- RGB+W controller switches off as intended
Basic troubleshooting
Switch the system off before checking connectors or wiring. Do not continue operating a board that overheats, smells abnormal, or behaves unpredictably.
| Symptom | Checks | Next action |
|---|---|---|
| One side does not illuminate | Board orientation, connector seating, damaged pins, and harness routing | Switch off, correct the connection, and retest before reassembly |
| Both sides remain off | 12-volt shutdown state, relevant fuse, controller power, and ground | Have the circuit checked by an automotive electrical professional |
| Flickering or dashboard warning | Product compatibility, loose connectors, wiring, and vehicle variant | Stop operation and contact DRLs Direct with photos and vehicle details |
| Moisture appears in the headlight | Module gasket, cable exit, dust cap, waterproof gland, rear covers, and housing seals | Do not ignore water ingress; correct the seal before further use |
| RGB+W app cannot connect | Controller power, app permissions, pairing method, and nearby devices | Follow the controller instructions and pair through the specified app |
Frequently asked questions
Can I install DRL boards myself?
That depends on the vehicle, access method, and your experience. A direct board replacement on an externally accessible module may be suitable for an experienced DIY installer. Headlight opening, bumper removal, coding, or RGB+W wiring should be handled professionally if you are unfamiliar with the required work.
Do I need to open the headlight?
Not for every model. Some DRL boards are mounted on removable modules outside the sealed housing, while others can only be reached after separating the lens. The relevant product page identifies the applicable installation method.
Should I add thermal paste, glue, or extra adhesive?
Use only the mounting and thermal-interface method specified for the supplied board. If the board includes a pre-applied interface, additional materials may prevent it from sitting correctly. Do not improvise with household adhesive or sealant.
Will the vehicle display an error message?
The boards are designed for the compatible applications listed on their product pages, but vehicle equipment, software, regional variants, previous modifications, and connection quality can affect the result. A warning should be investigated rather than automatically cleared or ignored.
Are colored DRLs legal on public roads?
Exterior-lighting rules vary by jurisdiction and may restrict colors, effects, intensity, or use on public roads. Check the laws that apply where the vehicle is registered and operated. Use an approved white-light configuration whenever local regulations require it.
How should the RGB+W cables exit the headlight?
The correct method depends on the headlight. A flat cable may run along the heat sink beneath the module sealing ring. Other installations may use an existing dust cap or service opening. If neither route is suitable and the model-specific procedure requires it, a small pass-through can be drilled in an appropriate location and protected with a waterproof rubber wire gland. Every method must keep the cable clear of screws and sharp edges while allowing the module, seal, and covers to close correctly. Never leave an open or unprotected hole in the headlight or dust cap.
What information should I provide when requesting support?
Include the vehicle make, model, model year, headlight type, order number, a photo of the headlight label, clear photos of the original and replacement boards, and a concise description of the issue. For RGB+W systems, also include photos of the controller connections and power installation.
Need help before continuing?
If the parts or connectors do not match, or if you are uncertain about the electrical installation, pause the work and send us your vehicle and headlight details. Clear photos help us assess compatibility more accurately.