Circuit/System Description

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2015 Chevrolet Trax and 2015 Buick Encore. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The ambient light sensor is used to monitor outside lighting conditions. The body control module (BCM) provides a 5-volt reference signal to the ambient light sensor. Depending on outside lighting conditions, the ambient light sensor provides a voltage signal to the BCM that will vary between 0.2 and 4.9 volts. The BCM monitors the ambient light sensor signal circuit to determine if outside lighting conditions are correct for either daytime running lights (DRL) or automatic headlamp system control when the headlamp switch is in the AUTO position. In daylight conditions, the BCM will command the low beam headlamps (DRLs) ON by applying low voltage to the low beam headlamp control circuits illuminating the low beam headlamps at reduced intensity. Any function or condition that turns on the headlamps will cancel DRL operation.