Unexpected warning messages like “Please check Left Daytime Running Lights/Side Light” on your VW T-Cross C11 can confuse anyone about what to do next. This blog points out causes, common symptoms, and what your next steps should be to resolve the issue. To start off, it’s important for you to understand the associated components of your specific vehicle.
The VW T-Cross C11 is one of the brand's smallest sub-compact SUVs that has captured the hearts of many. With over 1.2 million vehicles sold worldwide, the VW T-Cross has undergone modifications with each refreshed version since its launch in April 2019. With an interesting range of engines and plentiful standard features, like daytime running lights and optional LED headlights in older models. The TW T-Cross packs no less of a punch than its technological larger siblings, with the standard lighting equipment typically associated with modern, larger cars. Let’s take a closer look at each one.
LED Headlamps in VW T-Cross
LED headlamps are low-wattage headlights that utilize low-emitting diodes (LEDs) to illuminate the road ahead. They emit a very bright light in comparison to traditional halogen headlights, which emit a yellowish hue. Paired with LED headlights, you’ll find LED daylight running lights and LED side lights (often referred to as parking lights) in the front. Many VW drivers have reported DRL-related warning messages displaying on their dashboard on online forums seeking a solution.
What Does “Check Left Daytime Running Lights/Side Light” Mean?
The warning messages, “Check Left Daytime Running Lights/Side Light,” indicate you’re dealing with a malfunctioning DRL or side light on either side. While it’s unlikely for both sides to fail simultaneously, it is a possibility when you’re dealing with a shared electrical issue that affects both lighting components.
The most common VW Volkswagen T-Cross C11 warning messages
- Please check front-left turn signal
- Please check left daytime running lights/side light
Causes of Failure
The warning error, “Check Left Daytime Running Lights/Side Light,” can stem from many reasons. To narrow down your choices, a safe bet would be to look for a loose connector or bulb, which can often come out due to vibrations from driving over potholes and bumps. More common than you think, the warning may occur due to a corroded LED DRL/Side Light module that can primarily fail due to two reasons:
- Lifespan Degradation: The LED control module is highly sensitive and can degrade over time due to high temperature and constant wear and tear.
- External Damage: Accidents that include direct collision to the headlight assembly or the LED module can cause it to fail, resulting in the warning error.
Other potential reasons include moisture ingress, caused by a broken seal or a crack in the headlight assembly. Whatever the reason for failure may be, you can narrow down the root of the cause by assessing common symptoms.
Symptoms To Watch Out For
Potential symptoms include:
- Depending on the defective side, you’ll notice either “Please check left DRL/side light” or “Please check right DRL/side light.”
- The defective DRL/side light will not work.
- You may experience trouble with the front turn signal as well.
Resolving The Error
If you’ve been experiencing similar symptoms mentioned above, chances are your LED DRL module is at fault.
Pull out the module, which is often located behind the headlight assembly in a separate compartment. If white spots are present, it’s a clear sign that it’s corroded or gone bad due to moisture ingress.
A straightforward solution would be to purchase an LED DRL or Turn Signal Module, like B120845-B 2GM998478 90154959 LED Module. Make sure you ensure compatibility with your faulty module before finalizing your purchase. If you experience this issue on the right side, the technicians at Xenons4U can help you look for a suitable replacement part.
The best thing about this module is that it can be directly replaced with no diagnostic coding required! If you encounter any issues during the installation process, contact our specialists for professional advice.
Part Numbers & Compatibility List
This module fits a range of models, ensuring broad compatibility:
VW Ag part numbers
- 2GM.998.479
- 2GM998479
Valeo part number
- B120846-B
- 37426565
- 90154961
Compatible cars
- VW Volkswagen T-Cross C11
- 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023
- R-Line