Headlamp Adjustment Service Costs
Basic Headlamp Aim Adjustment
Labor Time: 0.5 hours
Typical Cost: $62.50
Includes basic mechanical adjustment of headlamp aim using specialized equipment. Recommended when experiencing poor nighttime visibility or complaints from other drivers about glare.
Electronic Headlamp Leveling System Reset
Labor Time: 0.75 hours
Typical Cost: $93.75
Required for vehicles with automatic leveling systems. Includes diagnostic scan and electronic calibration of headlamp sensors and control modules.
Headlamp Assembly Replacement & Adjustment
Labor Time: 1-1.5 hours
Typical Cost: $125-187.50 (plus parts)
Includes removal and replacement of headlamp assembly, followed by proper aiming and adjustment. Common when replacing damaged or aged headlamp units.
Advanced Adaptive Headlight System Calibration
Labor Time: 1.5-2 hours
Typical Cost: $187.50-250.00
Required for vehicles with advanced adaptive lighting systems. Includes comprehensive diagnostic testing, sensor calibration, and computer programming.
*Note: Prices are based on our standard labor rate of $125/hour. Additional costs may apply depending on vehicle make/model and any necessary replacement parts. Please contact us for a specific quote for your vehicle.
Headlamp Adjustment Procedures
Manual Adjustment
Tools needed:Phillips head screwdriver, measuring tape, level surface
Procedure:
- Park vehicle on level ground 25 feet from a blank wall
- Locate adjustment screws on headlight housing (typically top and side)
- Mark horizontal and vertical center lines of headlights on wall
- Turn on low beams
- Adjust vertical screw until beam is 2 inches below horizontal mark
- Adjust horizontal screw until beam is properly aligned with vertical mark
- Repeat for other headlight
- Test alignment by driving at night
Electronic/Automatic Adjustment
Tools needed:Diagnostic scanner, level surface
Procedure:
- Connect diagnostic scanner to vehicle's OBD-II port
- Access headlight adjustment menu in scanner
- Initialize automatic leveling system
- Follow manufacturer-specific calibration steps
- Verify sensor readings are within specification
- Perform test drive to confirm proper operation
Sensor Replacement
Tools needed:Socket set, diagnostic scanner, trim removal tools
Procedure:
- Locate faulty level sensor (usually on suspension components)
- Disconnect vehicle battery
- Remove necessary body panels or trim for access
- Disconnect electrical connector from sensor
- Remove mounting hardware and old sensor
- Install new sensor and secure mounting hardware
- Reconnect electrical connector
- Reinstall trim pieces
- Reconnect battery
- Perform system calibration using scanner
Control Module Replacement
Tools needed:Socket set, diagnostic scanner, trim removal tools
Procedure:
- Locate headlight control module (usually behind dashboard or in trunk)
- Disconnect vehicle battery
- Remove necessary panels for access
- Document electrical connector positions
- Disconnect all electrical connectors
- Remove mounting hardware and old module
- Install new module and secure mounting hardware
- Reconnect all electrical connectors
- Reinstall panels
- Reconnect battery
- Program new module using manufacturer software
- Calibrate system using diagnostic scanner
Note:These procedures may vary by vehicle make and model. Always consult the manufacturer's service manual for specific instructions and specifications.
Warning: Improper headlight adjustment can create unsafe driving conditions and may be illegal in some jurisdictions. If unsure, please consult a professional technician.
Understanding Headlamp Adjustments
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Common Headlamp Adjustment Failure Symptoms
Headlamp Adjustment Issues and Service Guide
Manual Headlamp Adjustment
Signs of Problems:
- Uneven road illumination
- One headlight appears higher or lower than the other
- Light beam hitting road too close or too far ahead
- Complaints from oncoming drivers about glare
Service Schedule: Check alignment annually or after any front-end collision/repair work
Automatic Headlamp Leveling
Signs of Problems:
- Headlights don't adjust when vehicle load changes
- Warning light on dashboard
- Headlights stuck in one position
- Irregular or jerky movement during adjustment
- Squeaking or grinding noise during adjustment
Service Schedule: System should be inspected every 30,000 miles or when any suspension work is performed
Dynamic/Adaptive Headlamp System
Signs of Problems:
- Headlights don't turn with steering wheel
- System warning light illuminated
- Erratic headlight movement
- Delayed response to steering input
- Only one headlight moving/responding
Service Schedule: Manufacturer-specific, typically every 50,000 miles or when alignment issues are noticed
Note: These are general guidelines. Always consult your vehicle's owner manual for specific maintenance schedules and procedures.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.
