How to Install G05 X5 CSL Yellow Headlight DRL

The BMW G05 X5 is one of the best-looking SUVs ever made. But the stock white daytime running lights don’t always stand out. A CSL yellow DRL upgrade changes that. It gives the front end a bold, motorsport-inspired look, the same kind seen on special BMW M models.

Here’s a simple, detailed guide on how to install the G05 X5 CSL Yellow Headlight DRL Upgrade yourself. The process works for the X5 (G05) and X6 (G06) from 2019–2023.

Why Upgrade to Yellow DRL

BMW used yellow DRLs on CSL models like the M4 CSL and M3 CS. The yellow tone looks more aggressive and sets your car apart. It also improves visibility in fog or low light.

Some owners say yellow DRLs make their X5 look “angrier” and more premium. It’s subtle but changes the whole vibe.

You can find the right parts in the BMW X5 custom lighting upgrades collection on BayOptiks.

What You’ll Need

Tools and materials:

• Ratchet and socket set

• Torx screwdrivers (T20–T25)

• Plastic pry tools

• Jack and jack stands

• Wheel chocks

• Clean microfiber cloths

• Thermal paste (usually included)

• Gloves and safety glasses
  
  

You should have a basic understanding of car parts, but no advanced skills are required. The install is fully plug-and-play.

Estimated time: about 2–3 hours for both sides.

Safety and Legal Notes

Always disconnect the car battery before working with electrical parts. The G05 has sensitive CAN-bus systems that can trigger errors if something shorts. Check your owner’s manual for details, here’s the official BMW G05 owner’s manual.

Yellow DRLs are legal in most areas, but if you’re in the U.S., make sure your local rules align with automotive lighting regulations by NHTSA. These usually cover brightness and color.

If you’re unsure, ask a local inspection shop before doing the mod.

Understanding the G05 Headlight and DRL Setup

The BMW G05’s DRL (daytime running light) sits inside the main headlight housing. It’s an LED module that connects to the car’s lighting control unit.

In the stock version, the DRL LED board emits white light through the U-shaped fiber optics. The CSL yellow DRL replaces that LED module with one that emits pure amber-yellow light.

The upgrade doesn’t need coding. It reuses the same connectors and mounting points as OEM.

Compared to full headlight replacements, a DRL swap is cheaper, safer, and keeps all factory functions intact.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

1. Preparation

Park the car on flat ground.
Engage the parking brake.
Chock the rear wheels.
Loosen the front wheel bolts slightly (but don’t remove them yet).
Disconnect the negative battery terminal in the trunk.

Tip: Take a few photos of your headlight area before starting. It helps during reassembly.

2. Remove the Front Wheel and Fender Liner

Jack up the car and place jack stands under the front lift points.
Remove the wheel bolts and take off the front wheel.

Use a Torx bit or 8mm socket to remove the screws holding the fender liner. Some clips may need a plastic trim tool. Pull the liner back enough to see the rear of the headlight.

Owner tip: Some people only loosen the liner instead of removing it completely. That’s fine if you can still reach the DRL cover.

3. Access the DRL Module

You’ll see a metal or plastic cover behind the headlight. Remove the screws holding it.
Behind the cover is the DRL module, a small rectangular part with a connector and a few screws.

Unplug the DRL connector carefully. Don’t twist or force it; there’s a locking tab.

4. Remove the OEM DRL Module

Use a T20 Torx driver to remove the screws securing the module.
Pull the module straight out. Note the orientation, this helps when you install the new one.

If there’s any old thermal paste left on the headlight surface, clean it off with a microfiber cloth.

5. Install the CSL Yellow DRL Module

Apply a thin layer of new thermal paste on the back of the new module.
Align the module correctly with the holes.
Tighten the screws evenly.

Plug the connector into the new module. Make sure it clicks securely.

Before reassembling everything, reconnect the battery and test the lights. The DRL should glow bright yellow on both rings.

6. Test and Troubleshoot

Start the car and check for any errors on the dashboard.

If the DRL doesn’t light up:

• Check the connector.

• Make sure the module is seated flat.

• Verify the fuse is intact.

• Disconnect and reconnect the battery to reset.
  
  

If there’s a “lighting system error,” it’s often a temporary CAN signal issue. Many owners use BMW coding and diagnostic forums to confirm that no coding is needed for this mod.

7. Reassemble Everything

Once the DRLs work properly, turn off the ignition and disconnect the battery again.
Reinstall the rear headlight cover.
Refit the fender liner and secure it with all screws and clips.
Mount the wheel back and hand-tighten bolts.
Lower the car and torque the wheel bolts to factory spec (around 140 Nm).

Repeat the same steps for the other side.

After Installation

Start the car and check both sides again. Step back and look at your front end, the difference is immediate. The yellow tone brings a CSL or endurance-race feel.

You can clean the lens gently with a microfiber towel. Don’t use strong chemicals on the new DRL area.

The modules are sealed and weather-resistant. No maintenance is needed other than occasional cleaning.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you see flickering or uneven brightness:

• Check that both modules are from the same batch.

• Inspect for corrosion on the connector pins.

• Make sure the thermal paste was applied evenly.
  
  

If an error code appears after a few days, it might be from voltage variation. A quick battery disconnect or scan reset usually clears it.

If one side is dimmer, swap the modules left to right to test. If the issue moves, the module may be faulty.

Owner Tips and Real-World Feedback

• Visibility: Many owners say the yellow DRL is more visible in rain and fog.

• Heat: The CSL modules run slightly warmer, so make sure the thermal paste layer is correct.

• Longevity: Users report over a year of use with no burnouts.

• Aesthetics: On black or gray G05s, the yellow pops more; on white cars, it adds a race-car feel.
  
  

You can find more upgrades like this in the BMW G05 lighting collection if you want to match the new DRL color with rear taillights or corner LEDs.

 

---

 

Comparison: CSL Yellow DRL vs Stock DRL

If you want something between both looks, some owners apply light yellow tint film over the stock DRLs. It’s cheaper but doesn’t look as clean as the real module swap.

Maintenance and Care

The modules are solid-state, so no bulbs to replace. You only need to keep the housing clean.

Avoid high-pressure washing directly at the headlight seams.

If you ever need to remove the DRL again, repeat the same steps in reverse. Keep the old OEM modules in a box, they can be reinstalled anytime.

Safety and Warranty Notes

The CSL DRL module is a plug-and-play unit and won’t void your car’s warranty unless it causes electrical damage.

Check with your dealer if you’re still under factory coverage. Some owners reinstall stock modules before dealer visits.

Always disconnect the battery before removing headlight components. The G05’s headlight controller is sensitive to voltage spikes.

Alternatives and Related Mods

If you like the yellow DRL look, you might also check:

• BMW CSL-style DRL kits for other models (G20, G80, F97).
  
  

• Blackline tail lights or smoked corner markers from the BMW G05 lighting collection.
  
  

• Laser headlight conversions (for newer models).
  
  

Each offers a slightly different aesthetic, yellow DRLs are the easiest and cheapest way to change your car’s face.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I need to code my car after installing G05 yellow DRLs?
No. The CSL modules use the same connector and voltage as stock. The car recognizes them automatically.

Q: Will I get a “check headlight” warning?
Usually no. If you do, it’s a loose connection. Remove and reseat the plug.

Q: Can I revert to stock white DRLs?
Yes. The process is reversible. Just reinstall the factory modules.

Q: Are CSL DRLs safe for daily driving?
Yes. They meet typical brightness levels, but check your local headlight regulations for color compliance.

Q: Can I do this without removing the wheel?
Technically yes, but it’s very tight. Removing the wheel gives better access and prevents broken clips.

Q: Do these fit the G06 X6?
Yes, the DRL design and module layout are the same for G05 X5 and G06 X6.

Q: Will yellow DRLs affect adaptive headlight functions?
No. The DRL is independent of adaptive or laser high-beam functions.

Q: What’s the lifespan of CSL yellow DRL modules?
Around 30,000–50,000 hours. That’s years of normal use.

Q: Can I install these on an X5 with M Sport package?
Yes. The headlight internals are the same regardless of trim.

Final Thoughts

Installing CSL yellow DRLs on your BMW G05 isn’t hard. It takes patience, a few tools, and about an afternoon.

The payoff is big, your X5 or X6 will have that unmistakable M car look.

If you’re upgrading, use the G05 X5 CSL Yellow Headlight DRL Upgrade kit and make sure to double-check each connection before finishing.

And if you want to keep building your setup, the BMW G05 lighting collection has more plug-and-play parts that match perfectly.