The screws are my best guess, unless they are super loose... Which might mean they are broken. I wouldn't put it past GM quality...

But, that's probably not the case. I'm just pessimistic.

 

Happened to me on my 9000. Couldn't aim them at all because they were broken..

 

Rtfm?

 

I had the same basic issues when I restored my '91 SE Vert last year. What I did was do an initial rough aiming: Set the car up against a wall about 15 to 20 feet. Light colored wall is best, and do this an night (back of my garage served this purpose, with the car halfway in/out of the garage).

I used the aiming screws for fine tuning, the rough aiming was in adjusting the mounts themselves: There's a bit of adjustment available with the two top screws and the side screw under the turnsignal. Also, be sure the bottom pin is correctly located in the hole (I missed it several times when doing IC work in the NG).

All the while, the lights are on and you check where they're shining against the wall.

Final adjustments I typically take to a state inspection shop -- in Va. it's an annual thing, and they have the proper equipment to aim it as needed. You could just as easily DIY on the fine adjustment screws.

Hope that helps.

On a similar note: Anyone ever try scoring the self leveling headlamps used in Europe? I recall reading about them in a European service manual. Sounds awesome to have here in the States.

 

The xenon systems on the 9-3, 9-5, and 9-7 are all self leveling as for adding it to an older model that might suck because i believe* there are several sensors mounted on the body to detect level. Also, if your cars under warranty why didn't you just have them fix it, factory warranty covers bulbs and alignment, and unless you put the bulb in wrong, replacing a bulb shouldn't affect aim.

 

He does not have xenon.

It's an aero too.


Odd.

 

^ I had to research this, I was beginning to wonder myself.

It was $500 option on the 04 aero.

I think I might see if I can get this installed as I am so fucking pissed with my current headlight debacle.

I hate having to go to the dealership, but well see....

 

Xenons were part of the vision package or the executive package (i forget which packages applied to the 9-3 and which to the 9-5) i've seen aeros without hid's. I believe the vision (or w/e its called) package included rain sensing wipers and xenon lights, but i may be getting some elements of the 9-3 and 9-5 mixed up. If you add them, you will need different assemblys (or atleast put HID projectors in the housing) and do some wiring, its easier said then done, although if you find a clear way to do it i'd be glad to try and help @ carlisle this spring since i have some experience in this area.