Audi A6L C7 DRL Replacement Guide (2013-2018)

TL;DR

On 2013-2018 Audi A6L C7 models, the daytime running lights (DRLs) often fail due to a burnt-out LED board or a degraded light guide strip, causing dim, flickering, or completely dead DRLs on one or both sides. Most Audi A6L C7 cars are plug-in and done. A few log a fault until the lamp check is coded off; ask us if your car is particular about lamp diagnostics.

What Goes Wrong with Audi A6L C7 DRLs

The DRL system on the Audi A6L C7 uses a light guide strip (a clear plastic channel that distributes light) and an LED board (the light source). Over time, heat cycling from the LEDs causes the plastic light guide to yellow and become brittle, while the LED board itself can suffer from solder cracks or moisture ingress. This leads to uneven lighting, a noticeable dim spot, or a complete failure of the DRL. Unlike some cars where the entire headlight must be replaced, the A6L C7 allows for replacement of just these components, saving significant cost.

How to Diagnose DRL Failure

First, visually inspect the DRL. If one side is dimmer or has dark spots, the light guide is likely yellowed. If the DRL is completely dead, the LED board may have failed. Swap the left and right LED boards (if accessible) to see if the problem moves—if it does, the board is at fault. Also check for moisture inside the headlight, as water can corrode connections. A simple multimeter test can confirm power to the LED board connector.

Step-by-Step Replacement

1. Disconnect the battery negative terminal for safety. 2. Remove the headlight assembly by undoing the mounting bolts (typically 3-4) and carefully pulling it forward. 3. Remove the rear cover of the headlight housing. 4. Unplug the DRL connector and unscrew the LED board (usually 2-3 screws). 5. Gently pry out the old light guide strip—it may be clipped in. 6. Install the new light guide and LED board in reverse order, ensuring all clips and screws are secure. 7. Reconnect the connector, reinstall the headlight, and test before fully reassembling. Approximate time: 1-2 hours per side.

Fitment Tips

Ensure the part matches your model year: the Audi A6L C7 DRL Light Guide Strip & LED Board (2013-2015) is designed for pre-facelift models. For 2016-2018, check for a different part number. No wiring changes on the Audi A6L C7. A small number of cars report a bulb-out warning afterwards until that check is coded out. Pre-shipment QC ensures you receive a tested unit, and a 1-year warranty covers defects.

Fix vs Replace

Replacing the entire headlight assembly is a common alternative, but it is far more expensive and unnecessary if only the DRL has failed. A new OEM headlight assembly can cost well over a thousand dollars, while the DRL light guide and LED board kit costs a fraction of that. Installation time is similar (1-2 hours), but you keep your original housing, which maintains the factory fit and finish. The table below compares the two options qualitatively.

Usually nothing is needed on the Audi A6L C7 - it is a direct electrical swap. A minority of cars with self-checking lamps flag a bulb-out warning that a short coding change clears.

Recommendation

For a cost-effective and straightforward fix, we recommend the Audi A6L C7 DRL Light Guide Strip & LED Board (2013-2015). It is a direct replacement that restores your DRLs to like-new condition without the expense of a full headlight assembly. Check the product page for current pricing and fitment details.

FAQ

Q: Will the car need anything programmed after the swap?

A: The Audi A6L C7 takes the part without wiring work. Whether a dash warning follows depends on the car's own diagnostics rather than on the board.

Q: How long does the installation take?

A: It typically takes about 1-2 hours per side for a DIY installation, depending on your experience.

Q: Does the part carry any cover?

A: Yes - the part carries a one-year warranty.

Q: Is replacing a single side acceptable?

A: Yes, but for consistent brightness and color, it is often recommended to replace both sides at the same time.

Standards reference: for the Audi A6L C7, 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.