Recommendation n25

HEADLAMP ALIGNMENT
TESTING IN VEHICLE
INSPECTION
 CONTENT

1. INTRODUCTION ......................................................................................................................................2
2. UNITS – DEFINITIONS – ABBREVIATIONS ...............................................................................................3
3. SCOPE OF INSPECTION ...........................................................................................................................5
4. STAGE I....................................................................................................................................................6
4.1. LEGAL REQUIREMENTS ...........................................................................................................................6
4.2. TESTING FACILITY....................................................................................................................................6
4.3. HEADLAMP AIMING DEVICE ...................................................................................................................7
4.4. REQUIREMENTS FOR HEADLAMPS PRIOR TO HEADLAMP ALIGNMENT TEST........................................7
4.5. REQUIREMENTS ON TESTED VEHICLE PRIOR TO HEADLAMP ALIGNMENT TEST ...................................8
4.6. REQUIREMENTS FOR TESTING THE DIPPED (LOW) BEAM AIM ..............................................................8
4.7. EVALUATION / ASSESSMENT OF THE HEADLAMP AIM ..........................................................................8
4.8. ADDITIONAL ITEMS WHICH MAY BE INSPECTED ....................................................................................9
5. STAGE II................................................................................................................................................ 10
5.1. LEGAL REQUIREMENTS ........................................................................................................................ 10
5.2. TESTING FACILITY................................................................................................................................. 10
5.3. HEADLAMP AIMING DEVICE ................................................................................................................ 13
5.4. REQUIREMENTS FOR HEADLAMPS PRIOR TO HEADLAMP ALIGNMENT TEST..................................... 16
5.5. REQUIREMENTS FOR TESTED VEHICLE PRIOR TO HEADLAMP ALIGNMENT TEST............................... 17
5.6. REQUIREMENTS FOR TESTING THE DIPPED (LOW) BEAM AIM ........................................................... 18
5.7. EVALUATION / ASSESSMENT OF THE HEADLAMP AIM ....................................................................... 19
5.8. FOG LAMPS .......................................................................................................................................... 19
6. ATTACHMENT REPORT CHECKING (MODERN) HEADLIGHT SYSTEMS................................................. 20

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February 2022 CITA R25: HEADLAMP ALIGNMENT TESTING IN VEHICLE INSPECTION

1. INTRODUCTION
CITA Recommendation no.25 lists the items that should be inspected during periodic technical inspection of
the vehicle, the method of inspection and the principal reasons for failure. Section 4 of CITA Rec.1 covers
lighting systems.
The purpose of this CITA Recommendation no.25 is to specify in more detail the recommended test
methods and equipment for assessing the alignment of vehicle headlamps (and their performance where
applicable).

A general assumption of periodic inspection is that new vehicles comply with legal requirements. The
principal aim of periodic inspection is to test whether a vehicle has been properly maintained and is still
roadworthy.

This CITA Recommendation is based on the requirements regarding lighting systems in European Union
Directive no. 2014/45/EU1 on roadworthiness tests for motor vehicles and their trailers. It has been drawn
up by the CITA Headlamps Task Force.

This CITA Recommendation describes two Stages:

- Stage I: Describes headlamp alignment testing in accordance with the current EU Directive
2014/45/EU.
- Stage II: Describes the current advanced or near future technology (camera HAD / OBD) to check the
cut-off line position. Stage II describes what can be done beside Stage I.
- In future this recommendation may be used for other systems covered by group of items 4, “Lamps,
reflectors and electrical equipment” in section 3 of Annex I to Directive 2014/45/EU.

Note that some tests are not mandatory under the European Roadworthiness Package but are best practice
for CITA members who conduct these tests.

Vehicles in traffic must fulfil certain requirements which are stipulated by legal authorities. This CITA
Recommendation does not include these criteria.

1
Directive 2014/45/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 3 April 2014, OJ L127 of 29 April 2014

February 2022 CITA R25: HEADLAMP ALIGNMENT TESTING IN VEHICLE INSPECTION

2. UNITS – DEFINITIONS – ABBREVIATIONS
2.1. UNITS TO RECOMMEND FOR USE WITH HEADLAMP TESTING EQUIPMENT

Measurement Basic units Prefix of basic units

Aim % - 10m cm – 10 m
Intensity Candela (cd) Lumen (Lm)
Dimensions HAD cm
Dimensions test area m – mm
Headlamp height cm

2.2. DEFINITIONS

Aiming dimension The specified inclination of the light beam of a headlamp in cm at a distance
of 10 m (an inclination of 10 cm/10 m corresponds to a 1% inclination).
Alignment device A device for checking the alignment of the headlamp aiming device with
respect to the vehicle (mirrors, lasers, visors, etc.).
Central mark The point of intersection of the light beam with the test surface parallel to the
longitudinal direction of the vehicle, starting from the reference axis of the
headlamp or system to be adjusted (UN R-123, 1.13).
Column A device in the headlamp aiming device chassis to which the optics box is
attached in a height-adjustable manner.
Cut-off The upper limit of the effective illuminated area of the dipped beam.
Line, defined in ECE R48, between the light and dark area of the beam.
Device screen The projection plane in the optics box on which the image of the headlamp
beam can be viewed and checked.
Elbow The kick-up in the asymmetric cut-off.
Filter A device that absorbs the spectral components of headlamp light distribution
for better visibility of the cut-off line on the device screen.
Flatness Deviations within the installation area of the headlamp aiming device are
recorded indirectly as changes in inclination with respect to the vertical of the
optics box.
Headlamp aiming A device for moving the headlamp aiming device in front of the vehicle.
device chassis
Heavy duty Vehicles with a maximum permitted weight above 3500 kg
Horizontal aim The inclination of the horizontal part of the cut-off in vertical plane.

Horizontal aim is the aim in the up/down direction.

February 2022 CITA R25: HEADLAMP ALIGNMENT TESTING IN VEHICLE INSPECTION

 Lens An optical element that maps the light distribution to scale on the device
screen.
Light duty Vehicles with a maximum permitted weight up to 3500 kg
Normal distance (N) The distance between two adjacent horizontal or vertical lines that are
displayed with a projector on the device screen using a slide.
Operating instructions A collection of information for users on the safe and proper use of the
product (headlamp aiming device).
Optical box A device with a lens and projection screen onto which the light distribution of
a headlamp is projected.
Test area The projection plane on which the image of the headlamp beam can be
viewed and checked.
Type approval number A string that uniquely identifies the given type.
Type label Under this guideline, a plate with identifying and descriptive data attached by
the manufacturer (or its authorised representative).
Vertical aim The left and right position of the elbow.

Vertical aim is the aim in the left/right direction.

2.3. ABBREVIATIONS

ADAS Advanced Driving Assistance Systems

AFS Adaptive Front Lighting System
HL Headlamp
HAD Headlamp Aiming Device
LED Light-emitting Diode
PTI Periodic Technical Inspection
OBD On Board Diagnostic

February 2022 CITA R25: HEADLAMP ALIGNMENT TESTING IN VEHICLE INSPECTION

3. SCOPE OF INSPECTION

After a relatively steady period, the last decade has seen major advances in vehicle lighting,
particularly headlamps. Xenon headlamps are now common for many vehicle classes, full LED
headlamps are already available for the majority of new vehicles and laser-initiated headlamps are
entering the market for premium class vehicles. Headlamp aim testers2 (HATs), as used in present
testing and approval schemes, have not generally evolved and have not been replaced by innovative
technology at the same pace.

Visual assessment is becoming more and more difficult as the number of systems that need to be
tested increases. There are issues identifying the cut-off due to aberrations in the beam pattern.
These are present at type approval, simply because the type approval regulations have not evolved
with the technology. Consequently, the precise assessment and adjustment required for safe road use
of the headlamps is becoming problematic.

Headlamp aim has always featured very highly as an inconsistent area of the PTI, with many members
being making efforts to address the repeatability of processes and measurements. This has led to
differences in equipment standards, methods of use, facilities and measuring tolerances.

A clearly defined “cut-off” is critical when assessing headlamp alignment. Visually this has become
increasingly difficult when using optical test equipment, as headlamp technology has developed while
the headlamp approval regulations have remained relatively static.
This has the potential to reduce the accuracy of the visual PTI assessment. Therefore, there is a real
potential for the headlamp aim test to be improved.

Because of the differences in testing environments (device types, evenness of floors, calibration
requirements), in the testing schemes for the various types of lighting technology installed in vehicles,
and/or different national requirements (e.g. exceeding the basic scope of the vehicle headlamp
inspection), this document is divided into two stages:

Attached to this recommendation you will find the report ‘CHECKING MODERN HEADLIGHT SYSTEMS).
This study was performed in 2020 by TESTEK Slovakia and the RDW Netherlands.

Stage I. Describes the present best practice, in accordance with the current EU Directive
2014/45/EU, for headlamp alignment testing using a headlamp tester or an electronic
vehicle interface. It recommends how to follow the basic points considered important in
order to carry out a correct measurement of headlamp aim.

Stage II. Describes the current advanced or near future technology (camera HAD / OBD) for
checking the position of the cut-off line and recommends other more specific conditions
under which the test should be performed to obtain a higher level of accuracy of the
results, consistency, and repeatability of the process.

2 Headlamp aim can also be tested using a fixed wall with horizontal and vertical lines. The requirements for the test
apply accordingly.
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4. STAGE I.

Describes the present best practice, in accordance with the current EU Directive 2014/45/EU, for
headlamp alignment testing using a headlamp aiming device or an electronic vehicle interface. It
recommends how to follow the basic points considered important in order to carry out a correct
measurement of headlamp aim.

4.1. Legal requirements

4.1.1. In this stage it is recommended to focus on evaluation of the horizontal aim of the
headlamp passing beam, which is the most important parameter for road illumination,
visibility and glare awareness.

National authorities may require additional items to be inspected at this stage,

depending on specific national requirements (see 4.8.).

4.1.2. Required values/limits

National authorities can prescribe their own limits/standards for assessment of all the
items they require inspectors to check during the inspection of HL, including tolerances
where applicable.

4.1.3. Calibration requirements

Equipment that affects the assessment of HL aim should be submitted to calibration
procedures and should comply with the limits set by national legislation.

4.2. Testing facility

National authorities should establish criteria for the relevant components of a headlamp testing
system in relation to the national requirements for vehicle headlamp testing. Useful criteria
should focus on factors that affect the measurement of the inclination of the cut-off line.

Criteria are needed for:

- The floor, for positioning the vehicle.
- The floor, for positioning the testing device.
- The device itself.

February 2022 CITA R25: HEADLAMP ALIGNMENT TESTING IN VEHICLE INSPECTION

 4.3. Headlamp aiming device

National authorities should establish criteria for the relevant components of a headlamp aiming
device in relation to the national requirements for vehicle headlamp testing. Useful criteria
should focus on factors that affect the measurement of the inclination of the cut-off line.

Criteria are needed for:

- Optical box.
- Representation of the headlamp or fog lamp beam.
- Lens design.
- An alignment device.
- HAD chassis (column and basis)

The HAD must be in a good serviceable condition.

4.4. Requirements for headlamps prior to headlamp alignment test

4.4.1. Presence:
Headlamps should be checked to ensure they are a matched pair, are positioned
symmetrically and emit light of substantially the same colour and intensity.

4.4.2. Condition:
The headlamp must be secure and the deflector or lens complete, free from serious
defects and free of products that reduce brightness or alter the colour.

4.4.3. Function:
The switch must operate the required number of lamps and the maximum illumination
required by national legislation should not be exceeded.

4.4.4. Operation:
Sufficient light source(s) must work to form a beam pattern that does not affect
visibility.

4.4.5. Compliance with requirements:

The lamp and light source must be compatible and produce light that is white, white
with a blue tinge, or yellow. Mandatory levelling/cleaning devices must work.

4.4.6. Electronic interface:

Where an electronic vehicle interface is part of the PTI, it must not indicate a fault with
the alignment, switching, levelling or cleaning system.

February 2022 CITA R25: HEADLAMP ALIGNMENT TESTING IN VEHICLE INSPECTION

 4.5. Requirements on tested vehicle prior to headlamp alignment test

4.5.1. Alignment HAD / vehicle

The headlamp tester and the vehicle must be correctly aligned in accordance with the
manufacturer’s specifications. The focal distance between the headlamps and the HAD
must be in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications.

4.5.2. Vehicle
The vehicle must be presented for the test in accordance with conditions defined by
national authorities.

Criteria are needed for, e.g.:

- Tyre pressure of the vehicle.
- Load of the vehicle in combination with a levelling device.
- With or without a driver on board of the vehicle. It is recommended to perform the
test with a driver on board.

4.6. Requirements for testing the dipped (low) beam aim

4.6.1. Beam pattern cut-off. A clear cut-off line is required to enable the correct assessment of
headlamp aim.

4.6.2. National authorities should set requirements for non-ECE headlamps or headlamps
tested on main (high) beam.

4.7. Evaluation / assessment of the headlamp aim

4.7.1. The illuminated area must be situated below the dark area.

4.7.2. Determine the horizontal aim of each headlamp on dipped beam using a headlamp
aiming device or using the electronic vehicle interface.

4.7.3. Reason for failure:

Aim of the headlamp is not within the limits laid down by the requirements, or any
defect evaluated via the electronic interface.

February 2022 CITA R25: HEADLAMP ALIGNMENT TESTING IN VEHICLE INSPECTION

 4.8. Additional items which may be inspected

4.8.1. Left/right deviation of the elbow position (in the plane perpendicular to the longitudinal
axis of the headlamp light beam).

4.8.2. Angular position of the cut-off and the elbow (rotation of the beam pattern in
longitudinal axis of the headlamp light beam).

4.8.3. Measurement of the light intensity of low / high headlamp beam (sufficient / too low /
too high).

4.8.4. Position of the high beam hotspot of the headlamp.

4.8.5. Horizontal aim of the front fog-light beams (where applicable).

4.8.6. Assessment of the aim of headlamps with a non-ECE beam pattern

February 2022 CITA R25: HEADLAMP ALIGNMENT TESTING IN VEHICLE INSPECTION

5. STAGE II.

Describes the current advanced or near future technology (camera HAD / OBD) for checking the position of
the cut-off line and recommends other more specific conditions under which the test should be performed
to obtain a higher level of accuracy of the results, consistency and repeatability of the process.

Headlamp design technology has seen substantial progress and changes, which make it impossible to
continue using the assumptions currently used for type approval and in-use maintenance purposes
(parabolic design of reflector, restricted size of headlamp, fixed geometry and flux of limited category of
light sources, fixed shape of cut-off line).

5.1. Legal requirements

In Stage II it is recommended to focus, in addition to the recommendations from Stage I, on:

- Evaluation of the vertical aim of the headlamp passing beam.
- Evaluation of the camera based systems (adaptive front lighting system (AFS)).
- Evaluation of the intensity produced by the headlamp or fog lamp.
- Required values/limits
National authorities can prescribe their own limits/standards for assessment of all the items
they require inspectors to check during the inspection of HL, including tolerances where
applicable.

5.2. Testing facility

One factor that affects headlamp aim is whether or not the floor of the testing facility is level
floor. For more detailed information see paragraph 10.1.1. in the report ‘CHECKING (MODERN)
HEADLIGHT SYSTEMS’ (attachment 7).

Normally the testing facilities contain a location for the vehicle and a position for the HAD.

HADs sometimes compensate for the inclination of the test facility. HAD systems may:
- adjusts automatically to the inclination of the floor.
In this case, the inclination of the vehicle must be close to zero.
- be manually adjustable to the inclination of the vehicle.
In this case, it is less important for the inclination of the vehicle to be close to zero.

February 2022 CITA R25: HEADLAMP ALIGNMENT TESTING IN VEHICLE INSPECTION

 5.2.1. Inclination and unevenness testing facility

5.2.1.1. Light duty

The location must be flat and level.3

For dimensions and tolerances, see below.

- Dimensions of location – Light duty:

- Maximum tolerances of location – Light duty:

3 If the HAD compensates for the inclination of the vehicle, the floor does not need to be level.
February 2022 CITA R25: HEADLAMP ALIGNMENT TESTING IN VEHICLE INSPECTION
 5.2.1.2. Heavy duty

The location must be flat and level.4

For dimensions and tolerances, see below.

- Dimensions of location – Heavy duty:

- Maximum tolerances location heavy duty:

4 If the HAD compensates for the inclination of the vehicle, the floor does need not be level.
February 2022 CITA R25: HEADLAMP ALIGNMENT TESTING IN VEHICLE INSPECTION
 5.2.2. Marking of test facility

The test location should be properly marked, showing:

- The location to place the vehicle
- The location to place the HAD.
- Marking is not necessary if the HAD is able to compensate for the inclination of
the vehicle.

5.3. Headlamp aiming device

5.3.1. Equipment technology:

According to Directive 2014/45/EU, either analogue or digital equipment can be used to
measure the aim of headlamps. When checking the aim of modern LED headlamps
(AFS), it is recommended to use a more intelligent digital device.

5.3.2. Equipment criteria:

National authorities should establish criteria for the relevant components and
requirements of a headlamp testing system in relation to the national requirements for
vehicle headlamp testing. Useful criteria should focus on factors that affect the
measurement of the inclination of the cut-off line.

Recommended requirements:5
- Type approval
All HADs must have type approval.
o Lux meter is not a part of the type approval
- Adjustment of the pitch angle
Steps of adjustment of pitch angle – min. 0.1%
- Tolerance of the measurement
Tolerance of the pitch measurement for the cut-off line – +/-0.1%.
- Parallel movement
The measurement result must not be affected by a parallel movement of more than
30 mm off centre from the optical box to the headlight.
- Vertical movement
o Vertical adjustment range 250mm – 1200mm, measured from centre of lens to
the level of the vehicle standing area.
o The vertical movement of the optical box must be possible. If this is done
electronically (automatic or semiautomatic HAD alignment), the vertical
movement must remain controllable manually.
- The lens
o The lens must be designed in such a way that a true image corresponds to the
light distribution on the test area 10 m away.
o The devices must be designed in such a way that the cut-off line can be easily
identified visually in daylight without direct sunlight.

NOTE: The use of a colour filter may influence the interpretation of the cut-off line!

5 An HAD is not mandatory if using a different device that produces the same testing result as an HAD.
February 2022 CITA R25: HEADLAMP ALIGNMENT TESTING IN VEHICLE INSPECTION
 5.3.3. Criteria:
- The HAD must be equipped with:
o A column and chassis.
o Measurement system (optical box).
o Alignment device (mirror, laser, visor, etc.).
- The HAD can be equipped with:
o A measuring instrument to measure the light intensity.
o A connection to the OBD system of the vehicle.
o Vehicle-specific software to test and adjust AFS.
- The HAD can be designed to operate:
o On wheels, for use on a floor.
o On wheels, for use on rails.
o As a ceiling/hanging system.
- Optical box:
o The optical box includes a lens and a projection screen on which the beam is
projected.
o The optical box must be equipped with markings (analogue or digital) or digital
instructions to ensure a correct alignment:
▪ An analogue device must be equipped with:
• Vertical central mark.
• Horizontal central mark or marks.
▪ A digital device must be equipped with clear digital instructions for aiming
the device in front of the car
o Aim determination can be manual or automatic.
o The optical box must be fixed to the column.
o The optical box must be parallel to the test area surface.
- Light distribution of the headlamp or fog lamp beam:
The specified inclination of the light beam of a headlamp in cm at a distance of
10 m (an inclination of 10 cm/10 m corresponds to a 1 % inclination). The
inclination may be presented on a visual projection screen or camera-based
presentation.
- Alignment device:
The device must ensure that it is possible to align the HAD correctly to the vehicle,
both horizontally and vertically. The following alignment methods are possible:
o Visor, laser, mirror, etc.
o Sensors and software.
- Positioning of the HAD to the headlamp:
o Markings on the optical box
o Infra-red
- HAD chassis (column and basis):
o The column and chassis must ensure that the HAD is steady and that the
measurement is repeatable.
o The chassis can be designed with three or four wheels for use on the floor or on
rails. Alternatively, it may be designed to be suspended from the ceiling.

February 2022 CITA R25: HEADLAMP ALIGNMENT TESTING IN VEHICLE INSPECTION

 5.3.4. Type approval of the headlamp aiming device
It is up to national authorities to decide whether HADs require type approval.

- The headlamp aiming device should allow the beam inclination to be measured
with a maximum measurement error between -0.2% and +0.2%.

Example 1:
Reference value: -0.5%
Value accepted on the display of the device: -0.3 to -0.7%

Example 2:
Reference value: -2.5%
Value accepted on the display of the device: -2.3 to -2.7%

- Mechanical recommended requirements

- The HAD should have a vertical adjustment range between 250 mm and 1200
mm above the reference plane, measured from the centre of lens to the
reference plane.
- The HAD should have a lens with useful dimensions of at least 220 mm
horizontally and 120 mm vertically.
- The HAD should ensure that the optical system remains parallel to the
horizontal reference plane with a tolerance of +/- 0.3% over the entire range of
vertical adjustment defined above.
- It should be possible to adjust the HAD parallel to the longitudinal axis of the
vehicle. The accuracy of this adjustment is +/- 0.3% (+/- 3 cm at a distance of
10 m).

5.3.5. HAD calibration requirements

The equipment for the assessment of HL aim and AFS should be subject to calibration
procedures and comply with the limits set by national legislation.

Recommended calibration requirements.*

- Measuring range: 0% to 4%
- Accepted error in the measuring range: +/- 0.2%

% aim RH (%) % (min) % (max)

0 0 - 0.2 + 0.2
-2 -2 - 2.2 - 1.8
-4 -4 - 4.2 - 3.8

* More detailed calibration limits may be included in this Recommendation at a later

date.

5.3.6. Frequency of calibration

In accordance with Directive 2014/45/EU, the HAD should be recalibrated at least once
every two years.

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 5.3.7. HAD user manual/training
- The HAD must be equipped with a manual in the local language.
- It is advisable/necessary to follow training from the manufacturer of the device.

5.4. Requirements for headlamps prior to headlamp alignment test

In addition to the requirements described in Stage I Chapter 4.4, the following is recommended
prior to the headlamp alignment test for Stage II.

5.4.1. Compliance with type approval requirements:

Each HL and lightbulb must meet the type approval requirements. The approval mark
(ECE) must be visible on the unit and on the bulb.

National authorities can make an exception for vehicles with non-ECE-approved lighting
units.

5.4.2. Presence:
Headlamps should be checked to ensure they are a matched pair, are positioned
symmetrically and emit light of substantially the same colour and intensity.

Check method:
- Matched pair: Visual
- Positioned symmetrically: Visual. In case of doubt measure with a suitable device.
- Same colour: Visual
- Intensity: Measuring with a suitable device.
- Shape Visual
- Type Visual

5.4.3. Condition:
The headlamp must be secure and the deflector or lens complete, free from serious
defects and free of products that reduce brightness or alter the colour.

Damage and modifications:

- The glass of the HL must not have been sprayed, painted or covered.
- The glass of the HL must not exhibit cracks, holes or opacity.

5.4.4. Function:
The switch must operate the required number of lamps and the maximum illumination
level set by national legislation should not be exceeded.

5.4.5. Number:
The number of lighting devices should not exceed the following numbers (or according
to national requirements):
- Dipped beam: maximum 2 devices.
- High beam: 2 or 4 devices.
5.4.6. Fog-lamps: maximum of 2 devices.

February 2022 CITA R25: HEADLAMP ALIGNMENT TESTING IN VEHICLE INSPECTION

 5.4.7. Operation:
The HL must produce an adequate beam:
- The illuminated area must be situated below the dark area.
- A clear cut-off line must be visible between the light area and the dark area.

5.4.8. Load levelling device (manual or automatically):

- The load levelling device must work properly.
- Manual load levelling systems can be checked by movement by hand.
- Automatic load levelling systems must be checked visually for defects.

5.4.9. Adaptive front lighting system (AFS):

Any AFS must work well in accordance with the vehicle manufacturer’s specification.

5.4.10. Electronic interface:

Where an electronic vehicle interface is part of the PTI it must not indicate a fault with
the alignment, switching, levelling or cleaning system.

Where a device is connected to an electronic vehicle interface, the parameters and

function are automatically chosen and activated in sequence. This may therefore
indicate faults with the switching, levelling or cleaning system if the parameters dictate
this. Alignment faults are not indicated.

5.5. Requirements for tested vehicle prior to headlamp alignment test

5.5.1. Loading conditions:

Loading affects the aim of the headlamps. It is therefore recommended to check the
vehicle when it is unladen. The levelling device (where applicable) can be used to adjust
the aim of a laden vehicle.

5.5.2. Tyre pressure:

Tyre pressure affects the aim of the headlamps, especially if there is a difference
between the front and rear axle. The tyre pressure should therefore conform to the
vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations.

5.5.3. Position of the steered wheels:

The steered wheels must be in the straight-ahead position.

5.5.4. Handbrake:
Handbrake position may affect the measurement of the HL aim. It must therefore be
disengaged.

5.5.5. Automatic levelling suspension:

If the vehicle is equipped with automatic levelling suspension, the inspection must be
performed with the engine running at idle. Any control unit must be in the normal
driving position.

5.5.6. Load levelling device (manual or automatically):

If the vehicle is equipped with an automatic load level adjuster, the inspection must be
performed with the engine running at idle.

February 2022 CITA R25: HEADLAMP ALIGNMENT TESTING IN VEHICLE INSPECTION

 For more detailed information about the influence of load, tyre pressure, position of the
wheels/handbrake see ‘CHECKING (MODERN) HEADLIGHT SYSTEMS (attachment 7.).

5.6. Requirements for testing the dipped (low) beam aim6

5.6.1. Alignment of headlamp aiming device:

The HAD must be aligned correctly to the vehicle, using the manufacturer manual.

Attention points:
- The optical unit must be parallel to the surface on which the vehicle is standing.
- The optical unit be aligned on the horizontal centreline of the vehicle.
- The optical unit must be correctly aligned to the HL:
o Automatically, following the HAD instructions, or
o Manually, using the centre marks on the box:7
▪ Vertical centre mark corresponding to the mark on the HL or the vertical
centre of the HL.
▪ Horizontal centre mark(s) corresponding to the cut-off line or the horizontal
centre of the HL.

5.6.2. EU/ECE headlamps:

Limits – cut-off line for horizontal aim

Horizontal
Assembly height HL < 0.8 m Max. up: - 0.5%
0.8 m ≤ assembly height HL ≤ 1 m Max. up: - 0.5%
Assembly height HL > 1.0 m Max. up: - 1.0%
Category N3G8 (assembly height > 1,2 m) Max. up: - 1.5%
Max. down: - 2.5%
Max. down: - 3.0%
Max. down: - 3.0%
Max. down: - 3.5%

Limits – cut-off line for vertical aim

The centre of the cut-off or the elbow may not be situated clearly to the left9 of the vertical centre line
on the HAD screen.

6 In addition to the conventional test with a HAD, it is possible to use another test method with a special device, for
example OBD reading or an FSD PTI tool. The test method must be suitable. The result must be comparable and
repeatable using a conventional HAD test.
7 Manual alignment of the HAD to modern HLs may not be precise enough. It is recommended to use a modern digital
HAD.
8 N3G: Heavy off-road trucks.
9 Or clearly to the right, for countries where the traffic is driven on the right-hand side of the road..
February 2022 CITA R25: HEADLAMP ALIGNMENT TESTING IN VEHICLE INSPECTION
 5.6.3. SAE headlamps (US) (non-ECE-type-approved headlamps):
Vehicles fitted with non-ECE headlamps may have dipped-beam headlamps with an
aberrant beam.
The dipped-beam headlamp is considered not to be glaring if it is set as follows:
- The brightest area projected, for both laden or unladen vehicles, may not be situated
above the horizontal line that corresponds to a declination of the light beam of
2 cm/m with respect to the centre of the headlamp.
- The centre of this area must not be situated clearly to the left10 of the vertical centre
line on the HAD screen.

5.7. Evaluation / assessment of the headlamp aim

5.7.1. Determine the horizontal and vertical aim of each headlamp on dipped beam using a
headlamp aiming device or using the electronic vehicle interface.

5.7.2. Reason for failure:

Aim of the headlamp not within limits laid down by the requirements or any defect
evaluated via electronic interface.

5.8. Fog lamps

5.8.1. The front fog lamp must be adjusted in such a way that, during an inspection using a
headlamp tester or a light screen, after fixation of the device or screen, the brightest
area projected for both a laden or unladen vehicle is not situated above the horizontal
line which corresponds to the centre of the front fog lamp.
5.8.2. The direction of the light beam from the front fog lamp must be checked with the aid of
a headlamp tester positioned in front of the vehicle. During the check:
- All wheels of the vehicle must be in the forward driving position.
- The handbrake of the vehicle must be disengaged.

10 Or clearly to the right, for countries where the traffic is driven on the right-hand side of the road.
February 2022 CITA R25: HEADLAMP ALIGNMENT TESTING IN VEHICLE INSPECTION
6. Attachment Report CHECKING (MODERN) HEADLIGHT SYSTEMS

Link to the report:

Report Checking
Modern Headlight systems.pdf

February 2022 CITA R25: HEADLAMP ALIGNMENT TESTING IN VEHICLE INSPECTION