Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Headlamp Aiming

The headlamps must be aimed for proper illumination of the road. Headlamp aim should be checked: (1) at least once a year, (2) when a new headlamp capsule is installed, (3) if service or repairs to the front end area have (or may have) disturbed the headlamps or their mountings.

Some state and local laws specify requirements for headlamp aim. All of these laws must be complied with when performing any headlamp aiming operations.

Prior to aiming the headlamps, the following steps must be taken:
- If any service has been performed on the vehicle, make sure that all of the components are back in their original place.
- Place the vehicle on a level surface.
- Stop all other work on the vehicle.
- Fill fuel tank to half full.
- If the vehicle is intended for hauling heavy loads or tows a trailer, these loads should be simulated.