GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

The vehicle has a headlamp system equipped with horizontal and vertical aim indicators. The aim has been pre-set at the factory and should need no further adjustment. This is true even though the vertical and horizontal aim indicators may not fall exactly on the "0" (zero) marks on their scales.

If the vehicle is damaged in an accident, the headlamp aim may be affected. Aim adjustment may be necessary if it is difficult to see lane markers, for horizontal aim, or if oncoming drivers flash their high beams at you, for vertical aim. If you believe the headlamps need to be re-aimed, we recommend that you take it to your dealer for service; however, it is possible for you to re-aim the headlamps as described in the following procedure.

Notice: To make sure the headlamps are aimed properly, read all the instructions before beginning. Failure to follow these instructions could cause damage to headlamp parts.

To check the aim, the vehicle should be properly prepared as follows:

    • The headlamps must be off for one hour prior to aiming and must remain off during this procedure.
    • The vehicle must have all four tires on a perfectly level surface.
    • If necessary, pads may be used on an uneven surface to help level the vehicle.
    • The vehicle should not have any snow, ice or mud attached to it.
    • The vehicle should be fully assembled and all other work stopped while headlamp aiming is being done.
    • There should not be any cargo or loading of the vehicle. It should however, have a full fuel tank and one person or 160 lbs (75 kg) on the driver's seat.
    • Close all doors.
    • Tires should be properly inflated.
    • Rock the vehicle to stabilize the suspension.
  1. Driver's Side Headlamp Shown


    Object Number: 809675  Size: B3

    Vertical Aim Adjustment Screw

  2. Horizontal Aim Adjustment Screw

Open the hood and locate the vertical and horizontal aim indicators. The aiming screw for the vertical aim indicator (A) is at the center of the headlamp cover and the aiming screw for the horizontal aim indicator (B) is on the outboard side of the headlamp cover.

  1. Passenger's Side Headlamp Shown


    Object Number: 809676  Size: B3

    Horizontal Aim Adjustment Screw

  2. Horizontal Block Index Plate

  3. Vertical Aiming Level

Start with the horizontal aim. The adjustment screws can be turned with an E8 Torx® socket.

Once the horizontal aim is adjusted, then adjust the vertical aim.

  1. Turn the horizontal aiming screw until the indicator is lined up with zero.
  2. Turn the vertical aiming screw until the level bubble is lined up with zero.