Steps-by-Step Guide
Now that my new Auxbeam LED headlights are installed, it is time to make sure they are aligned and aimed properly. A lot of folks say it's best to go to a professional to do this. But I wanted to try it myself because it does not seem that hard. So here is what I did.
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| My new Auxbeam headlights at night |
Why Proper Headlight Alignment Matters
Properly aligned headlights are more than just a convenience—they’re a safety essential. Misaligned headlights can reduce your visibility at night, making it harder to see obstacles, road signs, or wildlife. At the same time, they can blind oncoming drivers, creating a dangerous situation for everyone on the road. Whether you’re cruising through city streets, exploring backcountry trails, or heading out on a nighttime off-road adventure, correctly aimed headlights ensure you can see and be seen. This is especially important if you’ve upgraded to aftermarket LED headlights, which are brighter and can be harsher if misaligned.
What You’ll Need Before You Start
Before diving into headlight adjustments, gather a few simple tools and find a suitable location. You’ll need a flat surface or wall—like a garage door or driveway wall—and at least 25–35 feet of space to measure accurately. Tape and a measuring tape will help you mark the center points for each headlight. Most Jeeps require a Torx 15 screwdriver for vertical adjustments and a hex key for horizontal adjustments, both of which are usually included with aftermarket headlights or available at your local hardware store. Having a helper can make the process easier, but it’s also possible to adjust your headlights solo with careful alignment.
STEP 1 - Find a Flat Surface
Find a flat location, at least 35 feet. I had to use the inside garage wall since my driveway is not flat and skews the test.
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| Aiming headlights at garage door |
STEP 2 - Position Your Jeep
Pull Jeep as close to the wall as possible. I decided to use my green screen in the garage.
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| Aiming headlights at green screen curtain |
STEP 3 - Mark Your Headlight Center Points
With tape, put two crosses on the wall that correspond with the vertical and horizontal center lines of both headlights. Mine measured 42 inches tall.
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| Marking for headlight adjustment |
STEP 4 - Measure Back from the Wall
Move the Jeep back 25 feet from the wall, keeping the Jeep straight with the crosses on the wall.
STEP 5 - Measure Your Headlight Beam Pattern
Examine the pattern. The concentrated light beam should be in the lower right section of the crosses.
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| markings for headlight adjustment |
STEP 6 - Adjust the Vertical & Horizontal Screws
Using the torx 15 screw adjust the vertical screw. I made several turns on mine before the lights moved to the correct spot.
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| Adjusting Auxbeam headlight |
STEP 7 - Test the Headlighs on the Road
The last step will be to hit the road in the neighborhood to test out to make sure I won't be blinding anyone.
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| Before & After adjustment on green screen |
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| Before and after headlight adjustment |
Adjusting Screw Location
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| Headlight housing |
There is a torx screw in the plastic headlight housing unit that you turn for vertical adjustment.
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| Headlight adjusting bolt |
Also in this housing unit in the inner ring is a hex bolt that you turn for horizontal adjustment.
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| Headlight adjusting screw locations |
The hex bolt is on the side of the housing unit closest to the Wrangler's grille. The torx screw on the opposite side.
Troubleshooting Common Jeep Headlight Problems
Even with careful adjustment, headlights can sometimes misbehave. Here’s how to tackle common issues:
1. Headlights Don’t Move When Adjusting
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Cause: Screws might be stripped, rusted, or blocked by the headlight housing.
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Fix: Inspect the Torx and hex screws for debris or damage. Apply a little penetrating oil if they’re stuck, and use the correct tool size. For aftermarket headlights, check the manufacturer instructions.
2. Beam is Too High or Blinding Oncoming Drivers
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Cause: Vertical adjustment set too high.
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Fix: Slowly lower the beam using the vertical Torx screw until the concentrated light hits the lower-right section of your alignment marks. Always test on the road afterward.
3. Beam is Off to the Side
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Cause: Horizontal adjustment misaligned or uneven Jeep stance on the adjustment surface.
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Fix: Use the hex screw on the inner ring of the headlight housing. Ensure the Jeep is on a level surface when adjusting.
4. Headlights Flicker or Don’t Illuminate Properly
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Cause: Loose wiring, poor connection, or bulb compatibility issue with aftermarket LED units.
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Fix: Check all wiring connections, ensure the bulbs are seated properly, and confirm your Auxbeam LED headlights are compatible with your Jeep model.
5. After Off-Roading, Headlights Seem Misaligned Again
Pro Tip: Keep a small flashlight handy when making fine adjustments at night—it can help you see the beam pattern more clearly and prevent over-adjusting.
FAQs: How to Adjust Your Jeep’s Headlights
Q1: Why should I adjust my Jeep’s headlights?
Properly aimed headlights improve nighttime visibility and ensure you don’t blind oncoming drivers. Misaligned headlights can reduce road safety and affect your ability to see obstacles while off-roading.
Q2: How often should I check or adjust my Jeep headlights?
It’s a good idea to check your headlights at least once a year, or whenever you notice dim or misaligned beams, after replacing bulbs, or after heavy off-road use that may have jarred your Jeep’s suspension or headlight assembly.
Q3: Do I need special tools to adjust my Jeep’s headlights?
For most Jeep models, you only need a Torx 15 screwdriver for vertical adjustment and a hex key for horizontal adjustment. No professional tools are required for basic alignment at home.
Q4: Can I adjust Jeep headlights by myself?
Yes! With a flat surface, a wall, tape, and the correct tools, you can align your headlights safely. Follow step-by-step instructions and double-check alignment on the road.
Q5: What is the correct position for my Jeep’s headlights?
When aiming headlights, the concentrated beam should hit the lower right section of your alignment marks on the wall. This prevents glare for other drivers while maximizing road illumination.
Q6: How do cold weather or off-roading affect headlight alignment?
Extreme temperatures, vibrations, or impacts from off-roading can shift headlights. After off-road trips, it’s worth checking your headlight alignment to ensure they are still positioned correctly.
Q7: Should I use a garage wall or driveway to adjust my Jeep headlights?
A flat, level surface is ideal. If your driveway slopes, using a garage wall or a flat wall with at least 25–35 feet of space is best for accurate alignment.
Q8: Can I adjust aftermarket headlights the same way as stock headlights?
Yes, aftermarket headlights like Auxbeam LED units can usually be adjusted with the same vertical and horizontal screws. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions for specific adjustments.
Q9: What should I do after adjusting my Jeep headlights?
Take your Jeep for a test drive at night to confirm the beams are properly aligned and not blinding other drivers. Minor tweaks may be necessary after the initial adjustment.
Disclaimer: Any advise and information provided on this blog should be verified by professional sources prior to making any changes or modifications to your vehicle.
