The headlights must be aimed correctly to avoid momentarily blinding the driver of an oncoming vehicle, which could lead to a serious accident or impair visibility on the road. It is important to check the headlights for proper aim every 12 months and whenever a new headlight is installed or front-end body work is done. The adjustment procedure provides only a temporary fix until a properly equipped shop can make the necessary adjustments. Headlights feature two hex-head adjusting screws: one for up-and-down movement and the other for left-and-right movement. A simple method for adjustment involves using a blank wall 25 feet in front of the vehicle and a level floor. Position masking tape vertically along the vehicle centerline and the centerline of both headlights, which may be easier to do with the vehicle parked just a few inches away. Ensure the vehicle is sitting level, with the gas tank half-full and no unusually heavy load. For low beam adjustment, position the high-intensity zone two inches below the horizontal line and two inches to the side of the headlight vertical line away from oncoming traffic, using the vertical adjusting screw to raise or lower the beam and the other screw to move it left or right. With high beams on, the high-intensity zone should be vertically centered just below the horizontal line, keeping in mind that it may not be possible to achieve perfect aim for both high and low beams; prioritize low beams for driver safety. It is advisable to have the headlights adjusted by a dealer service department or service station as soon as possible.
