For those who do not know, Virginia State Inspection Program requires us to purchase a very expensive machine that they certify to read headlight alignment correctly. During an inspection, one of the things that is mandatory is for a headlight alignment machine to be placed in front of the vehicle to check the candle power (how bright the light is) and the alignment (too far up, down, left or right). Below is a picture of the machine that we use.
Headlight Aimer Machine
When the machine is put in front of each headlight, the machine will suggest which way the beam needs to go to be in aim or will give you a green light if it is within specification. The headlights on vehicles of today are mostly completely plastic. As with temperature in Virginia changes, the likely hood of the headlight adjustment needing to be a needed repair during inspection time is not far fetched. This doesn’t include the 100′s of pot-holes you have hit on 295 or in downtown Richmond which can easily jar your teeth loose, and even change the alignment on your headlights. Vehicles with age also can sag a little over time allowing the headlights to also sag low in the front.
Headlight Glare
We get complaints about the system and the unfortunate thing is for us, we have to follow the rules. The inspection program in Virginia is very strict when it comes to the stations that can perform inspections. Any wrong doing can result in inspection suspension. So for us, we choose to follow the rules of the Virginia Safety Inspection Program to keep the roads safe. To read more on the Inspection Program in Virginia, please visit http://www.vsp.state.va.us/Safety.shtm and to ask us questions, please visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/duffysrepairservice
This is actually a something I have thought about in the past. Mal-adjusted headlights can be a problem. In IL, we don’t have a requirement like this, but I am sure it will be soon coming. You mentioned that it is hassle for you guys – I was wondering what is the hardest part for you. Is it the expense, explaining it to customers, or the strictness of the law?
It is really the customers not understanding why.