63 10 ... Test requirements for headlight vertical aim adjustment

2013 Mini Cooper Countryman, Standard TransSECTION 63 10 ... Test requirements for headlight vertical aim adjustment
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 BMW 545i and 2004 BMW 545i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
  • Car parked on level ground.
  • Replace faulty glass and mirrors and blackened light bulbs.
  • Check tire pressure and correct if necessary.
  • Apply load equivalent to one person on driver's seat (approx. 75 kg).
  • Vehicle with full fuel tank or appropriate additional weight in luggage compartment.
  • Correct adjustment of headlights in relation to engine hood (gap dimensions).
  • Manual headlight vertical aim control: Turn handwheel to 0 position.
  • Automatic headlight vertical aim control: Wait approx. 30 seconds after switching on lights.
  • Version with xenon headlights: Wait 80 seconds after switching on lights. During this time, do not move the vehicle and avoid vibrations.
  • Align headlight aimer with vehicle longitudinal axis and parallel to parking surface. Set marking line (M) on aimer to distance (e). Scale graduations on aimer are equal to a gradient in cm at a distance of 10 meters.
    Fig 1: Identifying Headlight Aiming Procedure
    G03271676Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Light/Dark Limit Of Headlights In Headlight Aimer: 

e) Adjustment dimension, headlights:

  • As per type plate on headlight housing in % (e.g.: 1.0 % = 10 cm / 10 m = 10 on headlight aimer).

Adjustment dimension, fog lights:

  • All vehicles 2.0 % = 20 cm / 10 m = 20 on headlight aimer.

H) Height of center of headlight above parking surface.

h) H - e = height of marking line above parking surface.

+) Central mark = center point of high-beam headlight.

M) Marking line of headlamp aimer.

S) Parking surface of vehicle and headlight aimer.

Adjustment dimension (e) is only valid for EUR. Observe differing national regulations.

RENDER: 1.0x

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.