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Chevrolet Silverado: How to Adjust/Align/Aim Headlights

You won't need a mechanic to adjust, aim or align the headlights on your Chevrolet Silverado 1500; simply use these easy-to-execute DIY instructions.

By Charlie Gaston - June 5, 2015

This article applies to the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (1999-present).

It's recommended that you adjust, aim and align the headlights on your Chevrolet Silverado 1500 for the safest and most comfortable ride possible. The process does not take a considerable amount of time to complete; however, you will want to make all needed adjustments slowly and carefully to ensure you are achieving the best alignment and positioning possible. We will walk you through each step, explaining which adjustments will need to be made and how, as well as offer cutting-edge tips on how to check your work.

Materials Needed

  • Star socket set
  • Grease or lubricant (optional)
  • Masking tape
  • Tape measure

Step 1 – Mark your garage door or wall

  • Drive your truck to within 6 inches of your garage door or other flat vertical surface.
  • If your driveway does not offer a flat and even surface from which you can work, it's recommended that you use a wall (preferably one that is white or light in color for easy viewing).
  • Turn on your low beam headlights, and then move over to your garage door with your masking tape; make sure to pull the brake so it is properly engaged before exiting your cabin.
  • Make a straight center line along the garage door or wall marking the lateral distance between your passenger side and driver's side low beam lights.
  • Add a horizontal center line to check for complete alignment.
  • Jump back into your vehicle, turn on the ignition and slowly back away from your garage door or wall. You must be at an exact distance of 24 feet from the garage door or wall for this step to work.
  • It's recommended that you use a tape measure to ensure an accurate measurement.

Step 2 – Adjust and align headlights

With the front of your truck parked facing the outside of your garage door, pop the hood of your truck to begin the adjustment process.

  • Adjust the bolts on your headlights starting with the bolt closest to the outside curve of your left-side guard.
  • This bolt will adjust downward causing your headlight to lower.
  • Adjust the bolt closest to the engine to move your headlight left to right.
  • You'll need a star socket set for this step.
Figure 1. Make sure you have the correct size tools.

Featured Video: How to Adjust and Align Headlights

Pro Tip

Spraying grease on the bolts could help you to make the necessary adjustments.

Step 3 – Aim the headlights

Aim your headlights so the greatest illumination hits about 2 inches down from the horizontal line and 2 inches to the right of the vertical lines. It's recommended that you perform this DIY annually, as your headlights are prone to misalignment as time passes.

Pro Tips

  • Aim the headlights on your Silverado 1500 truck until both sides are completely aligned.
  • It's recommended that you cheat down and to the right to avoid offending other motorists on the road late at night.
  • Adjust your headlights, as needed.

Step 4 – Test the headlights

It's recommended that you adjust your headlights at night, so you can see the full intensity of your headlights and their positioning. As well, give your truck a spin once to make sure your headlights are level and adjusted to your liking.

Figure 2. Test the headlights at night.

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