I've searched the threads and the owners manual but can't find anything that explains if a warning chime should sound if you leave your headlights on (in manual mode) after turning the car off.

As the days get shorter, I need my headlights when I leave for work and sometimes don't notice that they're on when I arrive since it's light out. So far I've remembered to turn them off but I'm sure I'll get distracted one morning and forget.

After reading some earlier threads about "auto" mode not working that great I'm leery of using it.

Should a warning sound if my lights are left on?

The "auto" mode works great! It's just a few owners that are unsure if they automatically turn off after the appropriate time. (hint: They do!) Try using the auto feature, I'm sure you will quickly get to like it as much as you like everything else about your TCH!

The only down side to the auto mode is the DRL. I personally don't care for DRL, and that is just an additional electrical drain on the system that eats more fuel. I do though leave mine in the auto mode just because I have it on my truck (w/o DRL), and have grown to really love it. Nothing better than just jumping in the car and hitting the start button, then throwing it in drive and going, not worring about all the extra switches you might need to turn on or off.

Ditto on the auto lights...they are terrific. No fuss no worry...but what is DRL? Sometimes there are a few too many acronyms (not correct definition but couldn't come up with correct word....) used with no definition!

DRL = Daytime Running Lights

Regards - Randy




If there's one thing I've learned in online forums its this:
Never argue with an idiot, they'll drag you down to their level and beat you with experience!

Don't like the TLAs? (three letter acronyms)

I've had no issues with the Auto setting. And DRLs, tho a small drain (on the 12 volt system, BTW), make so much of a difference in visibility on less than perfect weather days I wish they would make them mandatory.

I'm a 100% "Auto" setting man myself, but I am going to have them reprogrammed to change the 30 second delay to "0". DRLs are a no-brainer for me as they are mandatory here...

Two climate control systems, one inside and the other at the tailpipe.

2007 Camry Hybrid (in service June 2006)
FE: 6.67L/100km or 35.3 mpg (6.11L/100km or 38.5 mpg in summer)

Do something about it! Join The TTP Project!

-- Alan

DRL's are only partially to help you see better. I think a bigger issue is helping you be seen better. On my commute I'm on 2 lane roads where you go from sun to driving under the trees. When you're in the sun and someone coming the other way is under the trees it's sometimes almost impossible to see them, especially on those sunny days. The DRLs probably do nothing for the driver in the car in the shade - his eyes are acclimated. However, to the other driver the DRLs on that car are the difference between seeing him clearly (or at least his DRLs) and not knowing he's there.