Adjusting headlights

[Tavel]

I'm trying to adjust the headlights on my 2000 Corolla VE, they've gone askew over the years...but for the life of me can't figure out how to do it!

I see there's the weird adjuster wheel, but it will only spin 1 or 2 degrees in either direction and then it stops. I've tried using a wrench, screwdriver, even channel locks to spin the screw itself and it just won't move.

what am i missing here? Do i just need some penetrating oil or something?


And while i'm on the subject of lights, I'm replacing a cluster light soon and was wondering if there were any tricks to make the job easier/quicker.

[Tavel]

Bump.

No one has ever adjusted the headlights???

[Flashmn]

Check the user manual?

[w203]

Originally Posted by Tavel

I'm trying to adjust the headlights on my 2000 Corolla VE, they've gone askew over the years...but for the life of me can't figure out how to do it!

I see there's the weird adjuster wheel, but it will only spin 1 or 2 degrees in either direction and then it stops. I've tried using a wrench, screwdriver, even channel locks to spin the screw itself and it just won't move.

what am i missing here? Do i just need some penetrating oil or something?


And while i'm on the subject of lights, I'm replacing a cluster light soon and was wondering if there were any tricks to make the job easier/quicker.

Which adjusting wheel did you adjust? The ones that changes the beam vertically and horizontally or the ones that changes the beam left and right? Can you take a pic of what your referring to? Did you have it parked on level surface within a few feet of a wall so you know where the beam is adjusting?

[Tavel]

Originally Posted by Tangerine

Which adjusting wheel did you adjust? The ones that changes the beam vertically and horizontally or the ones that changes the beam left and right? Can you take a pic of what your referring to? Did you have it parked on level surface within a few feet of a wall so you know where the beam is adjusting?

I believe I was trying to adjust the horizontal first, just to get a feel for how it works without cramping my hand reaching the bottom adjuster.

btw: I know how to properly aim headlights, I've done it numerous times. I just can't figure out how these particular adjustment mechanisms work.



This is the top adjuster (horizontal?). It only moves a few degrees in either direction. You can see my tool marks on the plastic nut.



That's the bottom one (vertical?). I don't think the screwdriver is engaging properly for some reason. The wheel won't turn at all.

[w203]

Something could be stuck and preventing it from turning. Do you know if the other side headlight is having the same issue?

[Tavel]

Originally Posted by Tangerine

Something could be stuck and preventing it from turning. Do you know if the other side headlight is having the same issue?

yeah, they're both like that. should i try some wd-40?