1998 Legacy Outback wagon. Headlight adjusters rusted.

[jeryst]

I tried to adjust my headlights because they are aiming way too low, but the adjustment screws are rusted solid. I've tried soaking them with Blaster for a couple days, and then rock them back and forth with some small vicegrips, but no luck.

 

If I take the headlights out, can the adjustment screws be replaced? If so, where can I get them? If not, what else can I do?

[wtdash]

You'll likely just need to replace them both. Ebay is generally a good resource. Note that you can use the '95-'96 version that includes the side marker too (but different connector plugs), or stick w/the '98-'99 like yours.

 

If you want better lights, find a pair of the JDM projectors. $$$ and require wiring mods but they are a big upgrade.

[Mike104]

I had the same issue on my 99 OBW and I ended up replacing the whole light assemblies

[Fairtax4me]

The screws can be replaced, but good luck finding them. I found some years ago but had to buy them and the plastic clips for them through Toyota. The early 90s Camry used the same screws.

[jeryst]

I havent taken them out so I'm a little confused on how to replace them. Does the light assembly come apart in order to get the screws and clips out?

 

I've looked on ebay and cant find replacements. And there's no way I'm paying $200+ for new assemblies just to adjust my lights.

 

If they can be taken apart to remove the screws and clips, wouldnt it be possible to rig up some type of replacement, or is it a special thread?

[Fairtax4me]

If you get creative enough you can probably come up with something.

The ends of the screws have a little ball on them that fits into a plastic cup type clip that pushes into the lamp housing. When the screws get rusty they expand and seize to the clips at each end and can break the clips if you try to force them to turn, and the clips almost always break if you try to remove them.