by C. Michael Lowery

Created on: March 30, 2009

Adjustment of the headlights on most vehicles is a simple task that generally requires only a standard screwdriver and a dark wall. You do not need to be a master mechanic to accomplish this job,and it saves money and a trip to the dealership! The most practical way to accomplish this is by parking your car in your garage at night. It may sounded condescending, but DO NOT leave your vehicle running in the garage during this process! A vehicles engine produces carbon dioxide which is released out of the engines exhaust system. Carbon dioxide (Co2) is a colorless, odorless gas that replaces oxygen in the blood stream when inhaled into the lungs. This may produce headaches, disorientation and eventually unconsciousness that can lead to death.Carbon dioxide build up in an enclosed garage is very deadly and occurs faster than you might think!

Also keep in mind that not all vehicles are exactly the same. Some vehicles may require special tools, such as a Torx wrench or Allen wrenches, while many newer models are adjustable from inside the vehicle via the system that controls your other vehicle maintainance topics such as oil life and tire pressure,etc. Some new automobiles may have self-adjusting headlights that use information stored in the vehicles onboard computer to adjust the beams automatically. These instructions will help get you started on most standard cars and light trucks, but it is always best to consult your owners manual first, or contact a certified mechanic before making any changes or adjustments if you are not entirely sure how those changes may impact the vehicles performance, safety, etc.

Lets assume you checked the manual and your lights are indeed adjustable. Now you have your handy screwdriver (or Torx wrench, etc) in hand and you have the car in the garage at night. Open the hood and locate the horizontal and vertical adjustment screws behind each bulb. Turn on your cars headlights and turn off the garage light. Against the garage wall you will be able to see where your headlight beams focus. Turn the adjustment screws for each light until the beams focus where you want them to (you may want to close the hood and sit in the drivers seat to get a good perspective), and Viola! Your headlights are now adjusted and you will now be able to see the road in front of you and not the ditch beside you or the oncoming lane!

Now, about that oil change you've been putting off......

Learn more about this author, C. Michael Lowery.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.