Get Ready for a Brighter Drive: How to Adjust Subaru Crosstrek Headlights in Minutes

Are you struggling with blinding oncoming drivers or finding it difficult to see clearly at night? Your Subaru Crosstrek headlights might be out of alignment. Knowing how to adjust Subaru Crosstrek headlights can save you money on professional repairs and give you confidence on the road, regardless of the time of day. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, step by step, so you can restore your vehicle’s optimal lighting performance.

Why Adjust Your Headlights?

Proper headlight alignment, also known as aiming, is crucial for safe driving. Misaligned headlights can:

• Blind oncoming drivers: High beams aimed too high can be extremely dangerous, causing discomfort and temporary blindness to other drivers.
• Reduce visibility: Headlights pointed too low fail to illuminate the road adequately, making it difficult to see obstacles and potential hazards.
• Cause uneven illumination: One headlight pointing in a different direction than the other creates a lopsided beam pattern, making it difficult to see clearly.

Tools You’ll Need

Before you get started, gather the following tools:

• Phillips screwdriver: Used to access the headlight adjustment screws.
• Flathead screwdriver: May be needed for some models.
• Tape measure: To measure the distance between your vehicle and the wall.
• Level: To ensure your vehicle is parked on a level surface.
• Marker or tape: To mark the center point on the wall.
• Flashlight: For illuminating the adjustment screws.

Preparing Your Subaru Crosstrek

1. Find a Level Surface: Park your Subaru Crosstrek on a level surface, preferably in a garage or driveway. Use a level to ensure your vehicle is perfectly horizontal.
2. Set the Headlights to Low Beam: Turn on your headlights and select the low beam setting.
3. Measure the Distance: Position your vehicle about 25 feet away from a blank wall. Measure the distance accurately using a tape measure.

Adjusting Your Headlights

1. Locate the Adjustment Screws: Open the hood of your Subaru Crosstrek and locate the headlight assembly. The adjustment screws are usually located on the back of the headlight housing. You might need a flashlight to see them clearly.
2. Identify the Adjustment Screws: There are typically two adjustment screws:

• Vertical Adjustment Screw: This screw controls the up and down movement of the beam.
• Horizontal Adjustment Screw: This screw controls the left and right movement of the beam.

3. Adjust the Vertical Beam: With the low beams on, aim the headlights at the wall. The center of the beam should be slightly below the horizontal center line of the headlights. To adjust the vertical beam, turn the vertical adjustment screw clockwise to raise the beam and counterclockwise to lower it.
4. Adjust the Horizontal Beam: Ensure the center of the beam is aligned with the center of the headlight. To adjust the horizontal beam, turn the horizontal adjustment screw clockwise to move the beam to the right and counterclockwise to move it to the left.
5. Repeat for Both Headlights: Follow the same steps for both headlights, ensuring that they are aligned with each other.

Checking Your Headlights

1. Recheck the Alignment: Once you’ve adjusted both headlights, step back and observe the beam patterns on the wall. Make sure the center of the beam is slightly below the horizontal center line of the headlights and that both headlights are aligned.
2. Test Drive: Take your Subaru Crosstrek for a test drive to confirm the adjustments. Drive on a dark road and observe the road illumination. You should have a clear and well-defined beam pattern without blinding oncoming drivers.

Important Considerations

• Professional Alignment: If you’re unsure about adjusting your headlights yourself, it’s best to seek professional help. A mechanic can use specialized equipment to ensure accurate alignment.
• Headlight Bulbs: Make sure your headlights are using the correct bulb type and wattage. Using incorrect bulbs can affect the beam pattern and illumination.
• Regular Checkups: It’s a good idea to check your headlight alignment periodically, especially after hitting a bump or getting into an accident.

Final Thoughts: A Well-Lit Journey

Adjusting your Subaru Crosstrek headlights is a simple DIY task that can significantly enhance your driving safety. By following these steps, you can ensure optimal illumination and visibility on the road, making your journeys safer and more enjoyable. Remember, proper headlight alignment is not just about seeing the road clearly; it’s about ensuring the safety of yourself and other drivers.

What You Need to Learn

Q: How often should I adjust my headlights?

A: It’s a good practice to check your headlight alignment every 6 months or after any significant impact to your vehicle.

Q: Can I adjust my headlights without any tools?

A: While it’s possible to make minor adjustments by hand, it’s not recommended. Using the appropriate tools ensures more precise and accurate alignment.

Q: What if my headlights are still misaligned after adjusting them?

A: If your headlights remain misaligned after adjusting them, there might be an underlying issue, such as a damaged headlight assembly or a problem with the adjustment mechanism. In this case, it’s best to consult a mechanic for professional diagnosis and repair.

Q: What is the difference between low beams and high beams?

A: Low beams are designed for general road illumination and should be used in most driving conditions. High beams are for illuminating a greater distance ahead and should only be used when there is no oncoming traffic.

Q: Are there any specific instructions for adjusting the headlights on my Subaru Crosstrek model?

A: The specific instructions for adjusting headlights can vary depending on the year and model of your Subaru Crosstrek. Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for detailed instructions specific to your model.