Wiring daytime running lights (DRLs) on your 2018 Jeep JL can improve both safety and style. Many Jeep owners want their vehicles to be visible during the day, especially in changing weather or busy traffic. But installing and wiring DRLs on a Jeep JL can feel confusing, especially if you’ve never worked with automotive wiring before. This guide will help you through the whole process, step by step, using simple language and practical advice. Whether you want to upgrade your Jeep’s look or meet local safety standards, you’ll find everything you need here.
Understanding Daytime Running Lights For The Jeep Jl
Daytime running lights are low-power lights that turn on automatically when your vehicle is running. They help other drivers see your car more easily during the day.
Many new cars include DRLs, but the 2018 Jeep JL may not have them as standard, depending on trim level and country.
Adding DRLs is a popular DIY project.
Why Install Drls On Your Jeep Jl?
- Increased visibility for your vehicle during daylight hours.
- Modern appearance—DRLs give your Jeep a high-end look.
- May be required by law in some areas.
- Easy to customize with LED options.
How Drls Work On The Jeep Jl
On the Jeep JL, DRLs are usually installed in the front bumper or headlights. They are powered through the vehicle’s electrical system and often turn on automatically when the car starts.
Some kits allow for custom control, such as dimming with headlights or turning off when the parking brake is engaged.
Tools And Materials Needed
To wire DRLs on your 2018 Jeep JL, you’ll need:
- Daytime running light kit (LED or OEM style)
- Wire stripper and crimper
- Electrical tape or heat shrink tubing
- Fuse tap or add-a-circuit kit
- Multimeter (to test voltage)
- Basic socket and screwdriver set
- Zip ties for cable management
Optional but helpful:
- Relay (if your DRL kit does not include one)
- Soldering iron (for secure connections)
- Wiring diagram for the Jeep JL
Step-by-step Guide: Wiring Drls On A 2018 Jeep Jl
Wiring your own DRLs can be straightforward if you follow the steps carefully.
1. Plan Your Installation
Before starting, decide where you want to mount your DRLs. Most people choose the front bumper or inside the headlight assembly.
Check that your chosen lights are legal in your state or country.
Make sure the wiring will not interfere with moving parts or get too close to the engine and hot surfaces.
2. Disconnect The Battery
Always disconnect the negative battery terminal before working on your vehicle’s electrical system. This prevents accidental shorts and protects your Jeep’s electronics.
3. Mount The Drls
Use the brackets and hardware that come with your kit. Clean the mounting surface and secure the lights so they do not move or shake.
If you’re adding DRLs inside the headlight housing, you may need to remove the headlight assembly.
4. Route The Wiring
Run the DRL wires neatly through the engine bay. Use zip ties to keep the wires away from hot or moving parts. Look for existing wire channels or grommets to pass wires through the firewall, if needed.
5. Connect The Power Source
DRLs must only turn on when the engine is running. The simplest way is to use a fuse tap or “add-a-circuit” kit. This lets you connect the DRL power wire to an ignition-switched fuse in the Jeep’s fuse box (such as the cigarette lighter or radio).
- Use your multimeter to find a fuse that only has power when the ignition is on.
- Insert the fuse tap and connect the DRL power wire to it.
6. Ground The Drls
Find a solid metal part of the Jeep’s body or frame. Attach the ground wire from your DRL kit here.
Remove any paint or rust before connecting, and use a ring terminal for a solid connection.
7. Add A Relay (if Needed)
If your kit does not include a relay, add one between the power source and the DRLs. The relay ensures the DRLs only draw power when needed and protects your vehicle’s wiring.
8. Connect To The Headlights (optional Feature)
Some DRL kits allow the DRLs to dim or turn off when the headlights are on. If you want this feature, use a “trigger” wire connected to the headlight circuit. Use a diode to prevent backfeeding and possible electrical errors.
9. Test The System
Reconnect the battery. Start your Jeep and check that the DRLs turn on with the ignition.
Turn on your headlights and make sure the DRLs dim or turn off, if that feature is wired. Fix any problems before finishing.
10. Secure Everything
Use zip ties and electrical tape or heat shrink tubing to protect all connections. Make sure no wires are loose or exposed. Replace any removed panels or covers.
Wiring Diagram Example
Here’s a basic wiring diagram for reference:
- Red wire: To ignition-switched fuse (using fuse tap)
- Black wire: To ground on body/frame
- Optional blue/white wire: To headlight positive wire (for dimming/off feature)
If your kit includes a relay, the relay pins connect as follows:
- 85: Ground
- 86: Ignition signal
- 87: To DRL positive
- 30: Battery positive (with fuse)
Common Mistakes And How To Avoid Them
- Tapping the wrong fuse: Always check with a multimeter to make sure the fuse only gets power with the ignition on.
- Bad ground connection: Clean the grounding spot well. A poor ground can cause flickering or no lights.
- Routing wires near hot parts: Keep wires away from the engine, exhaust, and moving parts.
- Not using a relay: If your DRLs draw more than 5 amps, use a relay to avoid overloading the circuit.
- Skipping heat shrink or tape: Exposed wires can lead to shorts and future problems.
Practical Tips And Insights
Many beginners forget that LED DRLs are polarity sensitive. This means you must connect the positive and negative wires correctly, or the lights won’t work. If your DRLs do not turn on, try switching the connections.
Also, some 2018 Jeep JLs may have CAN bus systems that detect changes in the electrical system. If you see dashboard warnings after installing DRLs, you may need a CAN bus-compatible relay or decoder.
Comparing Drl Kits For The Jeep Jl
There are many DRL kits available for the 2018 Jeep JL. Here’s a comparison of three popular types:
| Kit Type | Brightness (Lumens) | Installation Difficulty | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| OEM Mopar DRL Kit | 800 | Medium | 250-350 |
| Aftermarket LED Strip | 1200 | Easy | 40-80 |
| Integrated Headlight DRLs | 1000 | Hard | 300-500 |
Cost And Time Estimate
How much does this project cost and how long does it take? Here’s a quick overview:
| Item | Estimated Cost (USD) | Time Needed |
|---|---|---|
| DRL Kit | 40-350 | — |
| Basic Tools | 0-50 | — |
| Installation | — | 1-3 hours |
Real-world Example: Installing Aftermarket Led Drls
Let’s walk through a real-world example. Sam, a Jeep JL owner, bought a pair of aftermarket LED DRLs for $60 online.
He used a fuse tap to connect the power wire to the radio fuse, grounded the black wire to a frame bolt, and used zip ties to keep the wires neat.
The entire job took him about two hours. His DRLs now turn on automatically when he starts the engine, and he has had no electrical problems since.
Maintenance And Troubleshooting
After installation, check your DRLs regularly. If a light stops working, first check the fuse.
If both DRLs go out, check the relay and ground connection. For flickering or dimming, look at the wiring for loose connections.
If you notice warning lights on your dashboard or strange electrical behavior, unplug the DRLs and check for CAN bus conflicts. In some cases, you may need to add a resistor or decoder to avoid these issues.
Legal And Safety Considerations
Before installing DRLs, check your local laws. Some places have rules about how bright DRLs can be, their color, and when they must turn off.
Using DRLs incorrectly can lead to fines or your Jeep failing inspection.
Always use the correct fuse size and avoid overloading circuits. If you are unsure, ask a professional for help or consult your Jeep dealer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Know If My Jeep Jl Already Has Drls?
Most 2018 Jeep JLs in the US do not come with DRLs as standard, especially on lower trims. Check your owner’s manual or look for a small light that turns on automatically when you start the engine.
If you don’t see one, you likely do not have DRLs.
Can I Install Drls Without Cutting Any Wires?
Yes, many modern DRL kits use plug-and-play connectors or fuse taps, so you don’t need to cut factory wires. This makes installation easier and protects your Jeep’s warranty.
Will Installing Drls Void My Jeep’s Warranty?
Generally, adding DRLs will not void your warranty if you do not damage existing wiring or electronics. Always use the proper tools and avoid tampering with factory systems. For more details, check with your Jeep dealer or see NHTSA guidelines.
Why Are My Drls Flickering After Installation?
Flickering usually means a bad ground connection or a problem with the relay. Double-check your wiring and make sure all connections are tight and secure. Some LED DRLs need a resistor or decoder to work with CAN bus systems.
Are Drls Legal In All States?
Most US states allow DRLs, but rules can be different. Some states require DRLs to turn off at night or when headlights are on.
Always check local laws before installing new lights.
Wiring DRLs on your 2018 Jeep JL is a practical upgrade that boosts safety and adds style. With the right tools, a little patience, and this step-by-step guide, you can enjoy the benefits of DRLs and drive with confidence every day.
