The Ford Escape is a compact crossover, an excellent balance of car and SUV. Daytime running lights are a feature to make the Escape more visible during daytime, however, not everyone likes using them.
Thankfully, if you don’t want your daytime running lights on, you can turn them off.
How do you turn daytime running lights off on the Ford Escape?
You can turn the daytime running lights off by using your information display. You can also use your headlight control. The daytime running lights will come on during the day when your lights are set to automatic. If you don’t have them on automatic, the daytime lights will stay off.
We’ll look at the Ford Escape, and how to turn the daytime running lights off in the Ford Escape. We’ll also consider whether you should turn your daytime running lights off from a convenience and safety perspective.
History of the Ford Escape
The Ford Escape debuted in 2001. The base model had a 2.0L (122 ci) 4-cylinder and 5-speed manual transmission. It is front-wheel drive. However, it has an optional 4-wheel drive and towing package.
The first hybrid Escape appeared in 2005, and has a combined fuel economy of 30 mpg. The exterior was updated in 2008. The Escape received technology upgrades and more engine choices. It improved fuel economy and a six-speed automatic transmission became standard. Later models added self-parking.
The 2013 Escape was completely redesigned for a more progressive appearance. It provided three 4-cylinder engine choices that were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The base model has a 2.5L (152 ci) 4-cylinder engine. The top trim offers a 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with 240 horsepower.
The 2020 model is longer and wider than the previous Escape. It comes standard with a turbocharged 1.5L (91 ci) 3-cylinder with 181 horsepower. It also offers a turbocharged 2.0L 4-cylinder with 250 horsepower. The Escape also offers a hybrid and a plug-in hybrid for the 2020 model.
How to Turn Off the Daytime Running Lights in the Ford Escape
The above video shows you how to turn off the daytime running lights. You’ll use your settings display to turn them off.
To turn the daytime running lamps off from the setting screen:
- Choose settings from the home display
- Select vehicle
- Select lighting
- Select daytime lights
If your daytime lights are on, the option will be checked on the screen. To turn them off, just uncheck the option.
You can also use the headlight control knob to turn them off. Your headlight control allows you to turn your headlights on manually or set them to automatic. When they are set to automatic, your daytime running lamps will come on during the day if you haven’t turned them off.
Turning your headlights off automatic will prevent your daytime running lights from coming on.
However, you sacrifice the convenience of your headlights coming on automatically in adverse conditions.
Should You Turn Your Daytime Running Lights Off?
Daytime running lights are a controversial safety feature. Some U.S. states banned their use at one time. In Canada, they are mandatory. There are positive and negative features of daytime running lights.
They are intended to increase your visibility during daylight hours. This is more important in situations where light or visibility is diminished but it isn’t dark enough to feel the need to turn your headlights on.
However, they can be too bright and potentially blind other drivers. They can also be mistaken for headlights, leading drivers to forget to turn on their headlights. While this isn’t a problem if the headlights come on automatically, it is certainly a reason why some people don’t like daytime running lights.
Daytime running lights offer no illumination for the rear of the car. They may offer enough light to see in a situation like inclement weather or twilight, but you will be less visible to drivers behind you.
Is the Ford Escape for You?
If you are considering a compact crossover, the Escape has a good reputation. It’s nimble and reliable, although the base engines can feel a little underpowered.
Before you make a decision, you should check out Vehicle History. You’ll find owner and expert reviews and a full list of Ford Escape specs. You can also perform a VIN search to learn the history of the vehicle you are interested in.
