DRL Light Guide Strip vs LED Board: Which Should You Buy?

TL;DR: Which one do you need?

If your DRLs are dim, flickering or dead, buy an LED board - it directly replaces the failed factory module. If your lights work but you want a brighter, cleaner OEM-style signature, buy a light guide strip.

What is a DRL light guide strip?

A DRL light guide strip is a flexible acrylic tube that mounts inside the headlamp housing. It glows evenly along its length and recreates the factory daytime running light signature.

• Produces a bright, even line of light with no hot spots
• Flexible, easy to route inside the housing
• Ideal for restoring or upgrading the DRL signature on cars like the Toyota Corolla (2019-2021), Lexus ES and VW T-Cross (2020-2023)

What is a DRL LED board?

A DRL LED board is a direct replacement for the factory DRL module inside the headlight. When the original board fails, the DRL flickers or stops working entirely.

• Matches the original module size and connector for plug-and-play install
• Corrects flickering, dim or dead daytime running lights
• Available for models such as the Nissan Qashqai J11 (2017-2021) and BMW 7 Series G70 (2021-2024)

Can you buy both together?

Yes. For vehicles with both parts available - like the Toyota Corolla, Lexus ES and Mercedes S-Class W222 - we offer a Bundle option that includes the light guide strip and the LED board together, so you can upgrade the look and fix reliability in one order.

Quick fitment check

Before ordering, confirm your exact year, make and model. Use the Shop by Vehicle tool on our site to see which part is verified to fit your headlamp housing.

Standards & further reading

Reference material for the standards and technology that govern vehicle lighting equipment:

• UNECE Regulation No. 87 - Daytime running lamps) - the international approval standard for daytime running lamps - FMVSS No. 108 - Lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment - the US federal standard governing vehicle lighting equipment - ams OSRAM - automotive lighting - light-source and LED technology reference