Audi A5 DRL Not Working or Flickering? LED Daytime Running Light Fix (2017-2020)

What Goes Wrong with the A5's DRLs

The 2017-2020 Audi A5 uses a striking LED daytime running light signature integrated into the headlight housing. But over time, owners report one or more of these symptoms: the DRL strip becomes dim, flickers, or goes out entirely. The root cause is almost always the DRL LED board—a small circuit board that controls the LED chips. Unlike bulbs, this board isn't meant to be replaced separately by Audi, so the dealer will push you to buy a whole new headlight assembly—a $1,500+ job. But you can fix it for a fraction of the cost by swapping just the LED board.

Diagnose: Is It the Board or Something Else?

Before ordering parts, confirm the issue. Turn on the ignition and switch the headlight switch to 'AUTO' or 'DRL' mode. If the DRL strip is dim or flickering while the low beams work fine, the board is likely failing. If both sides are dead, check the fuse and wiring first—though that's rare. A quick test: use a multimeter to check if there's voltage at the DRL connector. If you have power but no light, the board is the culprit. Also, inspect the lens for moisture—condensation can short the board, so you'll need to seal the housing properly after replacement.

Step-by-Step Replacement Guide

Replacing the DRL LED board requires patience and a steady hand. You'll need a screwdriver set, plastic trim tools, and a heat gun or oven. Start by removing the front bumper cover to access the headlight assembly—unclip the fender liners and unscrew the bumper bolts. Disconnect the headlight wiring harness and remove the headlight unit. Place it on a clean workbench and remove the back cover. Use a heat gun at 200°F or an oven preheated to 200°F to soften the adhesive. Work the lens off gently with a trim tool. Once open, locate the DRL LED board—it's a long strip near the top edge. Unplug it, remove the screws, and lift it out. Install the new board, secure it, and re-seal the housing with fresh butyl adhesive. Reinstall everything in reverse order.

Fitment Tips for the 2017-2020 A5

This board fits both the Coupe and Sportback models from 2017 to 2020. Make sure the part number matches your headlight's OEM number (usually 8W0 941 035 or 8W0 941 036 for left/right). When reinstalling, torque the screws just snug—over-tightening can crack the board. Also, clean the lens inside with a microfiber cloth before sealing to avoid dust spots. If you're not comfortable with the heat gun, let the headlight sit in the sun for an hour—it softens the adhesive enough to pry open.

Why Replace the Board Instead of the Whole Headlight?

Cost is the big win: a new headlight assembly can run upwards of $1,500, while replacing just the DRL LED board costs a fraction of that. Plus, you keep the original headlight's matching lens and housing, so there's no risk of aftermarket fitment issues. The swap takes about 2-3 hours if you're handy—a Saturday morning job. And if you're worried about breaking something, just take your time and follow each step. Many DIYers have done this with basic tools.

Get the Right Replacement Board

When you're ready to buy, check the Audi A5 Xenon DRL LED Board (2017-2020) on our site—it's a direct replacement for the factory board, with pre-installed LEDs. It's plug-and-play, and we've tested it for the exact fitment on your A5. Don't gamble with cheap knock-offs that might have dimmer output or short lifespan. Our board matches the original brightness and color temperature, so your DRLs will look factory fresh.

Where to Buy the Replacement

Find the Audi A5 Xenon DRL LED Board (2017-2020) on the LumYard store — plug-and-play, fitment verified.

Standards & further reading

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

FAQ Q: Both A5 DRLs went dark at the same time - do I need two boards? A: Boards rarely fail simultaneously, so when both sides die together the fault is usually upstream: the DRL fuse, the control module, or the wiring between them. Check the fuse first (the owner's manual lists the slot), then the module. Only replace the boards once the shared parts test fine. Q: There is moisture inside my A5 headlight - will a new board survive it? A: Not unless you deal with the moisture first. Water ingress is what usually kills the board, so dry the housing completely, replace the butyl seal and check the vent caps, then fit the new board. A cracked lens means the assembly itself is due.

Standards reference: for the Audi A5, the daytime running lamp is governed by UN ECE Regulation 148 (which superseded R87) in most markets and by FMVSS 108 in the United States - these define when the lamp runs and at what output. The swap reinstates exactly the behaviour those standards describe.

Q: The A5 has two generations covered here - which part is mine? A: The 2012-2016 and 2017-2020 cars carry different boards and guides, so match the part by your model year, not just by the name A5. Every listing states the exact years it was checked against. Q: My A5 DRL flickers when cold, then settles. Is that the board? A: Flicker that comes and goes with temperature is the classic signature of cracked solder joints on the LED board, or of a weakening driver module. The board is the first part to swap; the swap test between left and right confirms it. Q: Does a new board or guide need coding? A: No. The parts are plug-and-play with factory-matched connectors. Coding only applies to complete adaptive headlight assemblies, which is a different repair.

More Audi DRL guides - Audi A5 Xenon DRL LED board guide - Audi A6 C8 DRL light guide guide - Audi A6 C7 DRL guide

• 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 - HELLA - automotive lighting and electronics - vehicle lighting systems reference