Disable Gen8 DRL's...

[JTTominey]

Just got our new 2013 Malibu today and was wondering if there is anyway to disable the daytime running lights without it inter-fearing with the automatic function it self... I still want them to come on when it is dark and function normally and I have having to turn them off every time the car is started!

[DrivenDaily]

The DRLs can be disabled without interfering with the normal operation of the headlights. Even though the low beams are used as DRLs they are controlled separately for DRL or headlight operation. Find the fuse and/or DRL relay, remove, done.

[nutcrunch]

Just curious but why would you want to disable them?

[DrivenDaily]

You know, that's actually a great question! DRLs are proven to be safer to drive with than without.

For my DRLs I converted them from using the low beams to using the turn signal bulbs. Not hard to do, and all the wiring can be concealed inside the console near the BCM. A Federal study that I read years ago showed that the human eye more quickly sees the bright amber light during daylight hours than it does the white light of the low beams (or for some cars, diminished high beams or special DRL bulbs). Plus the turn bulbs are a lot cheaper than halogen bulbs!

Either way, using one type of light or the other is safer than using none.

[nutcrunch]

Now I can understand not wanting to have the bulb on all the time and maybe shortening it's life if you have to take the bumper off to replace them but the new Malibu has easy to replace bulbs. They aren't real expensive either.

[dc2009]

It should be noted that DRL's are required by law on all vehicles registered in Canada, and it is illegal to disable them. The police can pull you over and issue a ticket if the DRL lights are not on.

Here in the US DRL is not required by any state at this time.

Many insurance companies give discounts for vehicles equipped with DRL. I'm getting a $12 credit every 6 months since my vehicle has DRL.

[JTTominey]

It's just a personal preference and a pet peeve of mine... I don't like DRL's and never have... Does anyone know where and which fuse to pull? I would greatly appreciate it!!

[DrivenDaily]

Under-hood fuse block. Listed on the underside of the cover. Pull fuse and/or relay and they're off.

[JTTominey]

Does anyone know the exact numbered fuse/relay?... Thank you!

[nutcrunch]

It lists all the fuses and relays in the owners manual but I don't see any fuse or relay that is dedicated to the DRL only.