How to Disable Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) - V3

Over the years there have been several threads on disabling the Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) in Gen 6 Legacys (and Gen 5 Outbacks). The two most common ways to achieve this have been:

 

• Unplugging the DRL ballast (dimming) resistor, which is difficult to access and exposes the connectors to corrosion
  
• Adding jumper wires in the main fuse box, and/or modifying the stock DRL relays
  

Recently, user dakotarayne over on the Outback forum posted a clean and elegant solution: simply unplug the stock SPDT (single-pole double-throw) DRL relays and replace them with pin-compatible SPST-NO (single-pole single-throw, normally open) relays. No wiring alterations are required, and the mod is easily reversible by simply re-installing the OE relays. The DRL relays are located in the engine compartment, on the main fuse block. Subaru part numbers are as follows (two required per vehicle):

 

• Original Equipment (5 pins, normal DRL function): 82501AG120
  
• New (4 pins, disables DRLs): 82501AG05B
  

It's a true plug-and-play mod for MY 2015-2017. This should also work on MY 2018 & 2019 as well, subject to verification.

2015_Legacy_Outback_FSM_WI-21_Main_Fuse_Block.pdf

Edited September 16, 2019 by ammcinnis

Thank you for the post. Replacing the relay will help eliminate any corrosion to the expose connectors form unplugging them.

This is great information. Cheap mod that is easily reversible. Thank you.