How to Adjust Headlights on a Vehicle
Driving with headlights that are pointing in different directions not only is annoying for fellow drivers, it is dangerous for the driver of the out-of-synch car! It's important to fix these cock-eyed lights immediately, and it's usually not a complicated or too mechanically intense of a job. So how did those headlights get out of joint in the first place?
Probably the biggest reason why off-kilter headlights get that way is when the owner of the vehicle decides to replace a burned out headlight themselves. What these backyard mechanics fail to realize is that when the new headlight is replaced, it has to be aligned properly, or it is not going to shine on the correct area in front of the vehicle like a factory headlight does. There are two sets of screws in the headlight "box area" on most vehicles. These can be screws, or they can be little knobs that can be turned by hand without tools. But the important thing is, they must be utilized when aligning the new headlights! So how is this done correctly?
Assuming that there needs to be a new headlight replaced, for whatever reason, after the old, burned out headlight is discarded then the new one needs to be put in. So put the new one in, and turn the screws or whatever fastening device is in the headlight "box area" ever so lightly. In other words, just enough so that it doesn't fall out. If one is doing this job in his or her garage, then make sure there is some sort of area in front of the vehicle that the headlights can shine onto, such as the wall of the garage, or a flat surface that easily reflects the lights.
If only replacing one headlight, then the "good" headlight should be marked on the wall with a pencil. The point is that both headlights need to be aligned, so marking the area on the wall will help do this. This can be compared to hanging a picture symmetrically in the house. It's just a matter of proper alignment, that's all. After the marking is done, then go to the "new" headlight, and adjust the beam so that it is symmetrical with the other headlight. This can be accomplished by turning the set screws as they are being tightened. There is an up and down motion, as well as a left to right motion. When it is aligned properly, then all the screws can be tightened just enough so that the headlight is firm. It's important not to over-tighten the screws!
In summary, for safe night driving, and so the headlight beams don't shine in your fellow drivers face, properly adjusted headlight beams are a necessity, and in most cases one doesn't need a mechanic to adjust them!
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