1996 Suburban LT 4X4

[OneEyedSpeedy]

Just bought a 1996 Suburban LT 4X4, with 96K mi., from a family that took good care of it. Has no obvious problems. Previous owner stated that fuel pump was changed at 90K. Very excited and looking forward to taking family on first vacation with it. Applied for second mort. to pay for gas...

My only problem... The DRLs are not on. The dash indicator is on and the lights function normally when the dial is turned to headlights on position. Relatively handy around the house, but new to DIY repairs on 'burb. Looking for advice on trouble shooting this. Thanks.

[777stickman]

I have a '98, so they should be close to the same. DRL's are powered by the DRL/FOG fuse in the intrument panel fuse box(between drivers door and panel). Power then goes through a diode that drops voltage to the low beams for DRL ops(most common cause of inop DRL's) and then through a relay(convenience center bottom center position) and out to the low beams. There's also a DRL control module and a switch on the parking brake that inhibits the DRL's when set. Does the DRL dash indicator go out when you turn the headlights on or set the parking brake? If it does I would not suspect the module or the parking brake switch......Steve

[OneEyedSpeedy]

Steve,

Thanks for the advice. Spoke to my neighbor. Much sharper on these things than I. Good teacher too, so I am learning more about diagnostics. He read your post and knew exactly what you were talking about. Great advice... Walked me through the process and we wound up replacing the relay. DRLs are functioning, just in time for the insurance inspection. Thanks to you, I get an additional discount for having working DRLs, and my wife has renewed faith in my DIY skills. Will buy you a beer if you're ever in the NYC/LI area. Thanks again.

Christian

[777stickman]

That's great news. Glad I could help, that's what this forum is all about. Too far to go for a beer though.

Steve