How to turn off the daytime running lights on the Golf 7?
4 Answers
The daytime running lights on the Golf 7 cannot be turned off. Daytime running lights are lamps installed at the front of the vehicle to make it more easily recognizable during daytime driving. Taking the 2021 Golf 200t as an example, it is a compact 5-door, 5-seat hatchback with body dimensions of 4296mm in length, 1788mm in width, 1471mm in height, and a wheelbase of 2636mm. The 2021 Golf 200t is equipped with a 1.2T turbocharged engine, delivering a maximum power of 85kW and a maximum torque of 200Nm. It adopts a front-wheel-drive layout, with a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension.
I previously researched this issue when driving a Golf 7. The daytime running lights are designed for safety and cannot be completely turned off with the factory settings. However, you can temporarily turn them off by operating the combination switch: after ignition, push down the light lever on the left side of the steering wheel, and the instrument panel will display the low beam icon. At this point, the daytime running lights will temporarily turn off. Note that the daytime running lights will automatically reactivate after the car is restarted, so this operation is suitable for short-term use. Some people also use a 5053 data cable to disable them by accessing hidden functions, but this may affect the annual inspection. Moreover, unauthorized circuit modifications could void the warranty in case of issues, so I don’t recommend non-professionals tinkering with such specialized equipment.
I helped my colleague adjust the lighting settings on a Golf 7. Turning off the daytime running lights requires step-by-step operation. First, start the vehicle without pressing the brake, press the CAR button on the center console to enter the vehicle settings interface, find the 'Lights' option and select external lighting. Swiping the screen will reveal the daytime running lights switch option. However, for some model years, this option might be grayed out and unadjustable. In that case, you'll need to use Volkswagen's dedicated diagnostic device connected to the OBD port to modify the coding. I should remind you that for certain model years, keeping the daytime running lights on is a national standard requirement, and turning them off might trigger a circuit anomaly warning light.
Golf 7 owners share a simple trick: Turn the headlight knob counterclockwise directly to the parking light position (small light symbol), and the daytime running lights will dim but not turn off completely, serving as a compromise. For complete shutdown, older models can try this method: After engaging the electronic handbrake, shifting to P, and turning off the ignition, immediately power on without starting the engine. Then, press and hold the button on top of the light stalk for 5 seconds until you hear a prompt tone. This works for some 2013 models. However, newer models have mostly locked this function. If you must disable it, you’ll need to visit a tuning shop to disconnect the T20/14 wire from the BCM control unit socket, but modifying the wiring carries risks and voids the warranty.
