Daytime Running Lights Won't Shut Off

[Canadianron]

My 97 B2500 is a Canadian model that was equipped with daytime running lights. I think these generally run off the high beam circuit at reduced voltage.

They now stay on even after the van is shut off and the keys are removed. I have to open up the hood and pull the fuse to the lights to make sure it doesn't run my battery dead when its parked.

I've tried the light switch on/off...doesn't matter. I'm guessing there must be a relay switch that closes when the key is turned on and that this switch is stuck closed. If so...anybody know where the heck to look for it?

Thanks in advance.
Ron

[alloro]

There is no separate relay for the DRL, everything is built into the DRL module. Your only option is to replace the DRL module. On a second note, if you have a factory security system in the van, there is a security relay that controls the same headlamp bulbs as the DRL does. If the security system has a problem, or if this relay is stuck on, then the lights will stay on all the time as well.

See the attached wiring diagram:

[Canadianron]

Thanks for the info...this van doesn't have the factory security system in it...now...what does the DRL module look like and where can I find it? I've poked around under the hood and can't find anything that resembles what I found other models have...a 3" x 3" box held on the fender with 2 Torx screws.

My other searching has found that this is a common problem with some models of the Dodge Caravan. In that case it is not a cheap fix...I'm finding posts that claim the DRL module is several hundred dollars from your friendly local Dodge dealer.

Guess I'll head to the local junk yard or...looking at the above diagram...would just cutting the R/O wire from the DRL Module to the headlights not fix my problem??? The van is bright yellow...I don't need the DRL's!

But please....anybody who knows where my existing DRL module is located...please help! I'm leaving later in the week for Georgia...funny how this stuff always shows up on the eve of a trip isn't it????

[alloro]

The V/W (violet/white) wire is the positive wire so you might want to snip that one instead of the R/O ground wire. Just make sure you insulate both ends since power will backfeed up the wire from the headlamps when the headlamp switch is on.

The DRL module is usually located right next to the wiper motor.

[Canadianron]

OK...got it.

I just unplugged it completely. Seems to be the only thing that doesn't work with it out of the circuit (besides the DRL's) is the high beam indicator light.

I'll see if I can pick up another one at the junk yard. This one was obviously toasted...when I took it off the back was oozing some crud out of the silicone that covers the circuit board.

Thanks a lot for the assistance!

[alloro]

Seems to be the only thing that doesn't work with it out of the circuit (besides the DRL's) is the high beam indicator light.


Makes sense since according to the wiring diagram the high beam indicator is wired into the DRL module. The other thing that probably won't work is your parking brake indicator light. Again, that switch is wired into DRL module, so if you use your parking brake at all you should double check that is is disengaged before you drive.

[Canadianron]

The other thing that probably won't work is your parking brake indicator light. Again, that switch is wired into DRL module, so if you use your parking brake at all you should double check that is is disengaged before you drive.

I could be wrong...but I think that connection of the parking brake to the DRL is simply to shut off the DRL's if the parking brake is on. This is quite a common circuit for them.

I pretty much never use the parking brake anyhow...to me you either have to use it all the time...or don't dare to pull it less the cable won't return and your brakes are stuck on!