LED daytime running lights, BMW Angel Eyes and dynamic turn signals

The LED daytime running lights (DRL - Daytime Running Lights) are lights that turn on automatically when the engine is running. Mandatory on new vehicles since 2011 in Europe, they improve the visibility of your car to other road users in broad daylight, thus reducing the risk of an accident by 5 to 12% according to studies. LED models consume less than 10W, last more than 50,000 hours and offer a pure white at 6000K. Older vehicles can be fitted with additional daytime running lights available from AGM Vision.

The LED Angel Eyes for BMW exist for the majority of series: E39, E60, E63, E65, E87, E90, E92, E93, X1 E84, X5 E53/E70, X6 E71 and many others. Each series uses a specific base (H8, 5W or proprietary connector). It is essential to check the exact model and year of your BMW before ordering. At AGM Vision, each product sheet specifies the list of compatible vehicles to avoid any mistake.

Daytime running lights (DRL) turn on automatically with the engine and turn off when the dipped headlights are activated. Their intensity is high to be visible in full sunlight. Position lights (sidelights) are weaker and are used to signal the vehicle when stopped or in low-light conditions. DRLs consume between 5W and 20W, versus 5W maximum for sidelights. Some modules offer a dual-intensity function: powerful DRL during the day and dimmed sidelight at night.

The installation of additional daytime running lights on a vehicle not originally equipped requires fixing the modules on the bumper or the grille with the supplied brackets. The electrical connection is made in 12V, with an automatic ignition module connected to the engine circuit (ACC signal or alternator). To comply with the ECE R87 standard, the DRLs must be positioned between 250 mm and 1500 mm in height, spaced at least 600 mm apart, and switch off automatically when the headlights turn on.

A sequential dynamic turn signal is a flashing light whose LEDs light up progressively from the inside to the outside, creating a highly visible scrolling effect. This type of turn signal, popularized by Audi and Volkswagen, improves the visibility of the signaling and modernizes the vehicle’s appearance. The OEM modules offered at AGM Vision directly replace the original units in plug and play and often integrate daytime running lights and brake lights in the same module.

ECE R87-certified LED daytime running lights pass the technical inspection without any problem, provided the installation rules are followed: height between 250 mm and 1500 mm, minimum spacing of 600 mm between the two lights, illuminated surface between 25 cm² and 200 cm², and automatic switch-off with the dipped-beam headlights. Non-approved or poorly positioned DRLs can lead to a re-inspection. Original BMW Angel Eyes or direct replacement ones do not pose any problem at the technical inspection.