1. Clean the lenses
Dust and dried mud cut a surprising amount of light. Wipe both lenses with a damp cloth.
2. Check every lamp
Low beam, high beam, indicators, brake lights and fog lights. Ask someone to stand behind the car while you press the brake.
3. Look at the beam on a wall
Park facing a wall a few metres away. Both beams should sit at the same height with a clear edge. If one points up or off to the side, it needs aiming.
4. Remember the load
A full boot lifts the nose of the car and the beams with it. If your car has a headlight level dial, turn it down when loaded.
5. Fix dim lights before the trip, not after
If the beam was weak on your last night drive, it will be weak on this one. Yellowed lenses and tired projectors can both be put right in a day.
