Have you investigated whether your headlights are properly aligned? Misaligned headlights can result in reduced visibility and make it more difficult to see the road ahead. According to studies, misaligned lights are a major contributor to the headlight glare problem. They can also distract oncoming drivers and even temporarily blind them. Even a misalignment of just one percent can affect the safety of driving at night. What are the reasons behind misaligned headlights?
1. Some Components Are Broken.
Nowadays, the internal components of headlights are mostly made of plastic and are attached to the headlight housing and the car body with delicate joints and adjustment screws. This means that they generally become brittle over time and have a tendency to break under even a small amount of pressure, finally causing the misalignment of headlights. According to experts, it is highly recommended to check the headlights periodically and see if there are broken components. “Fluttering” headlights are also a clear sign that something needs to be repaired or replaced.
2. The Headlight Lens Is Damaged.
Older headlights that still contain diffusion discs made of grooved glass often develop this technical issue. The diffusion disc on the lenses plays an important role in light distribution. If the disc has cracks and scratches caused by a strong impact, it can impair the distribution of the beams and make the critical cut-off line that prevents those beams from dazzling other drivers less sharp. Unfortunately, this issue also happens when the newer, clear plastic lenses become opaque.
3. The Headlight Leveling System Is Impaired.
You can try to check the headlight leveling system if there are no broken components and the lens is intact. Headlight beams are only supposed to move up and down when the driver makes operations. As for automated systems like those in xenon lamps, headlight beams move down when extra weight is added to a vehicle. Unfortunately, the headlight leveling systems may be impaired for some reason. Bad contacts, for example, can cause the motor to move headlight beams constantly up and down. If you think your headlight leveling system is damaged, please have it fixed by a professional without delay.
4. The Manual Headlight Leveling System Was Accidentally Changed.
Some drivers may accidentally change their manual headlight leveling systems because they confuse the adjustment dial with the brightness control for the instrument panel lighting. They may also change the system inadvertently while cleaning the dashboard. Whatever the reason, such accidental adjustments can lead to misalignment of the headlights and compromise driving safety at night.
5. The Bulbs Are Worn Out.
Generally speaking, filaments expand over the course of their lives. When this happens, they are no longer located at the ideal focus of light distribution as they were in the original headlight configuration. Unreliable no-name products are more likely to cause these problems. Fortunately, replacing old bulbs before they eventually burn out will prevent any of the negative effects mentioned above.
Need to adjust your headlights? Check here:
How to Adjust Your Headlights?