Why are my headlights aimed too low and should i adjust them myself?

[Jacob39]

I’ve noticed my car’s headlights seem to be aimed too low lately, especially on unlit country roads where my high beams don’t reach as far as they used to. I’m not sure if this is just normal wear or if something got knocked out of alignment, and I’m hesitant to start turning adjustment screws myself.

[SophiaSB]

I had something similar after a pothole knocked my aim down a notch. At first I tried the screws myself in the driveway, but the pattern wandered and I worried I would blind someone. I booked a quick visit to a shop; they matched the beam to a wall and reset the aim. It wasn’t cheap, but driving at night now feels noticeably better and the long reach of the high beam is back.

[Aurora_J]

I actually did twist the screws once, thinking I would save a few bucks. It cleared up a bit of the downward tilt, but I think I overcorrected and ended up pointing one lamp a bit high. After a few test drives I gave up and left it alone.

[Frank68]

Is the problem even the aim, or could aging bulbs or lens haze be making the light look dimmer and less focused? I have had dim low beams but the car still felt fine otherwise.

[John56]

If you are not sure about turning screws, a shop with proper equipment can check alignment and verify the pattern on the wall and on the road. It is likely safer than guessing, and you will hear if something else is off like mounting or a damaged lens.