mechanics.tradeHeadlamp aim
Headlamp aim came up 1,462,047 times at the MOT during 2025, the 4th most recorded defect on the list.
1,462,047recorded in 2025
4.7%of all recorded defects
4thon the national list
What it is
Beam aim is measured on a machine against fixed limits. Too high and you dazzle oncoming drivers; too low and the road ahead goes dark sooner. The pattern the beam throws is checked as well as its height.
What the tester can write down
| Wording on the certificate | Category | Recorded in 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| The aim of a headlamp is not within limits laid down in the requirements | Major | 1,413,269 |
What you can do about it
Aim drifts gradually as suspension settles and after any bulb or lamp is changed, so this catches out plenty of well kept cars. Resetting it is a quick adjustment at the garage and rarely costs much.
Nearby on the list
Every defect on the list, from 42,728,066 MOT tests in 2025.