Circuit board from DRL module in 2005 Nissan Altima
This easy fix could save you hundreds of dollars. Do not be intimidated by complicated appearance of this task. Read on!
If the daytime running lights (also known as “DRL”) in your Honda/Acura or Nissan/Infinti vehicle are not working, have a good look at this article before taking your vehicle to the dealer or replacing the running light module. In all likelihood, there is fast and inexpensive solution to this issue that could save you a lot of money.
We noticed that the daytime running lights on our 2005 Nissan Altima were out and also only one headlight was working in high-beam mode. We initially assumed that a burned out bulb was causing the problem. But a quick internet search pointed to a faulty daytime running light module. Apparently the driver’s-side high-beam goes out when the DRL module malfunctions.
We also discovered that a small solder job on the module circuit board could easily repair the problem. We are certainly not experts in electronics or circuit board repair, but as a new module apparently sells for over $250 at the dealership, we were game to give it a try.
For our Altima, this forum thread at Nissanclub.com (post # 30) provided the exact location of the unit under the dash and the exact spots on the circuit board that generally require solder touch-up. We (carefully!) doctored up the spots shown in the image of the thread, as well as a few others that appeared discolored. We reinstalled the module and voila! We had daytime running lights and fully functioning high-beams. Thank-you internet! We didn’t even have to remove any dash panels to complete this task.
It is vital that you do your research before jumping into this job, as DRL module locations can vary. You do not want to be soldering the innards of the wrong module box! For helpful dis-assembly and soldering tips, check out YouTube videos.
Honda DRL Module Repairs
It seems as though daytime running light repairs on Honda vehicles are very common and thankfully there is a load of guidance out there. Even if you do not own a Honda, check out the video at the link below. The fellow performing the repair on the CRV is especially adept with a soldering iron.
