So you’re driving your 2019 Kia Forte and you realize—wait, are my lights even on? It’s a common moment of panic for new owners. You see that sleek reflection in the window of a storefront and notice those glowing strips or bulbs, but you can't find a dedicated "on" switch for them anywhere on the dash. Honestly, the 2019 Kia Forte daytime running lights (DRL) system is one of those things that’s incredibly simple once you get it, but it’s wrapped in enough "smart" logic to be genuinely confusing at first.
If you've spent ten minutes flicking the indicator stalk up and down trying to find the DRL setting, you’re not alone. Most people assume there's a specific button. There isn't.
Why Your 2019 Kia Forte Daytime Running Lights Aren't Turning On
Here is the thing about Kia’s logic: the car basically wants to make sure you aren't blinding people or wasting battery while you're just sitting there. If you are parked with the engine running and you’re wondering why your DRLs aren’t shining, check your feet.
The parking brake is the master kill switch. If your parking brake is engaged, the DRLs stay off. Period. It doesn't matter if the car is in "Auto" or "Off" on the light stalk. Kia designed it this way so that if you're idling in a driveway or waiting for a friend at night, you aren't projecting a massive beam of light into someone’s living room. As soon as you drop that brake and put the car in gear (Drive, Neutral, or Reverse), they should pop right on.
The "Auto" Setting Confusion
Most Forte owners just leave the light switch on "Auto." It's easier. But there's a nuance here. In the daytime, the car uses an ambient light sensor (that little half-dome on your dashboard near the windshield) to decide what to do.
- Bright Sunlight: The car keeps the main headlights off and runs the DRLs.
- Tunnels/Overcast/Night: The sensor tells the car to flip on the actual low beams.
When the main headlights come on, the DRLs usually dim or turn off depending on your trim level. If you have the base FE or LXS trims, you’re likely looking at a dedicated halogen bulb. If you’re in an EX or a GT-Line, you’ve got those sharp LED strips that everyone wants.
Different Trims, Different Lights
The 2019 model year was a big transition for the Forte. Because of that, "daytime running lights" means two very different things depending on which version of the car you bought.
The Halogen Setup (FE, LXS, and some S Trims)
If you have the entry-level trims, your DRLs aren't those fancy "eyebrow" LEDs. Instead, they often use a dual-filament bulb or a dedicated high-wattage bulb located in the inner housing. These are functional but, let’s be real, they look a bit "yellow" compared to modern cars.
The LED Signature (EX and GT)
This is what most people are looking for. These trims feature the LED "Stinger-inspired" design. They are crisp, white, and much more durable. The downside? If one of these goes out, you usually can't just "swap a bulb." You're often looking at replacing a larger portion of the headlight assembly, which is a significantly bigger hit to the wallet than a five-dollar bulb from the local auto parts store.
Troubleshooting: When One Side Goes Dark
It’s a known "thing" in the Kia community—specifically for the 2019 through 2021 models—that one side of the DRL system likes to quit. Usually, it's the passenger side. Why? Nobody has a definitive answer from Kia, but most mechanics point toward heat cycles or minor vibrations loosening the socket.
If your 2019 Kia Forte daytime running lights stop working, do these three things before you go to a dealer:
- Check the "E-Brake" (Parking Brake): I know, I mentioned it already. But seriously, half of the "broken" lights reported to shops are just people who forgot the brake was up.
- The "Flicker" Test: If you have the halogen version, give the headlight housing a very (very) gentle tap. If the light flickers back on, you have a loose connection in the socket. It’s a common Kia quirk.
- Inspect the Fuse: In the fuse box (located under the hood on the driver's side), look for the "DRL" fuse. If the metal bridge inside is broken, that's your culprit.
Can You Upgrade to LEDs?
Yes. Sorta.
If you have the halogen bulbs (usually a P21W or similar, depending on your specific production date), you can buy "plug-and-play" LED replacements. They look way better. They make the car look five years newer instantly.
But there’s a catch.
✨ Don't miss: Where Did the Vikings Come From? The Real Story Behind the Nordic Expansion
LEDs draw much less power than halogens. The Forte’s computer is smart—sometimes too smart. It might think the bulb is "burnt out" because it doesn't see enough electrical resistance, leading to a "Check Headlight" warning on your dash. If you go this route, you need to buy LEDs that are "CANBUS ready" or have built-in resistors. Brands like Lasfit or Sylvania’s ZEVO line are generally the go-to for avoiding those annoying dashboard warnings.
Replacing the Bulb Yourself
If you've got the halogen version and it's actually burnt out, don't pay a dealership $100 to fix it. It's a five-minute job.
Open the hood. Look behind the headlight assembly. You’ll see a plastic circular cap. Twist that off. Inside, you’ll find the socket. You just twist the socket counter-clockwise, pull it out, swap the bulb, and put it back.
Pro Tip: Never touch the glass of the new bulb with your bare fingers. The oils from your skin can cause "hot spots" on the glass, which makes the bulb explode or burn out prematurely. Use a clean rag or some latex gloves.
Actionable Next Steps
If you’re currently staring at a dark headlight, here is exactly what you should do:
- Identify your trim: If you have LED strips and they're out, check your warranty immediately. 2019 models might still be covered under certain electrical warranties depending on your mileage.
- Verify the state: Put the car in Drive (with your foot on the brake!) and have someone look at the front of the car. Remember: they won't turn on in Park with the e-brake on.
- Buy in pairs: If one halogen DRL bulb burns out, the other one is usually about two weeks away from dying too. Just buy the two-pack.
- Check the sensor: If your DRLs are on at night instead of your headlights, make sure nothing is covering the sensor on your dash (like a hat or a parking permit).
The 2019 Kia Forte daytime running lights are a great safety feature that honestly makes the car look a lot more premium than its price tag suggests. Just keep that parking brake in mind before you start worrying about a trip to the mechanic.