Shine Bright, Not Blind: A Beginner's Guide to Jeep Headlight Alignment

Why Headlight Alignment Matters

One of the most common complaints about modified Jeeps is their blinding headlights. Lifting your Jeep can significantly alter your headlight's aim, casting a beam of light into the eyes of oncoming drivers. This not only annoys other motorists but can also pose a serious safety hazard.

Simple Steps to Perfect Alignment

To ensure your Jeep's headlights are aimed correctly, follow these easy steps:

1. Load Your Jeep: Before making adjustments, load your Jeep as you typically would. A heavier load can affect the vehicle's stance and, consequently, the headlight aim. If you often carry equipment in the back of your Jeep be sure to load it as you typically would, ensure your tires are at the correct pressure and your fuel tank is at least half full.
2. Find a Flat Surface: Park your Jeep on a level surface facing a flat wall. 
3. Mark the Beam: Pull up close to the wall (2-3 feet) and mark the brightest point or the upper cutoff point of your headlight beam with a piece of tape.
   
   
   
   
4. Back Up: Back your Jeep away from the wall to a distance of 25-30 feet.
5. Locate the Adjustment Screws: The adjustment screws are located under the hood for JL Wranglers and can be adjusted with a Phillips screwdriver or hex socket. JK and TJ models have the adjusters outside immediately next to the headlights and are adjusted with a torx driver.
   
   
   
   
6. Fine-Tune the Aim: Refer to the marks on the wall and adjust the screws to aim the beam. A good rule of thumb is to aim for a height of about 3 feet at a distance of 30 feet, but this may vary depending on your Jeep's lift height. The most important thing is to be sure your headlights are hitting the wall at or slightly below the tape marks you made when pulled close.
7. Test Drive: Take your Jeep for a night drive to ensure the adjustments are correct.

Be a Responsible Driver

Properly aligned headlights are not only a courtesy to other drivers but also a safety measure. By taking the time to adjust your headlights, you can help prevent accidents and improve visibility on the road. Let's all do our part to be responsible Jeep owners and avoid the negative stereotype of blinding other drivers.