What Car? Q&A - Do I need to adjust headlights?

Q: I'd like your thoughts on a small problem with headlight readjustment on the 2005/06 Mazda 3 model for driving on the Continent. Mazda UK says speak to my dealer, but my local dealer says just dip them using the wheel on the dashboard! Surely this only lowers them, not realigns them?

Do you reckon the French police will understand when I get pulled over for dazzling others?
A. Moore, Cardiff

A: In most European countries, it's compulsory to adjust your headlights so that, when driving on the right, the beam doesn't shine into the eyes of oncoming drivers.

You'll also be met with an on-the-spot fine in almost all countries if you don't adjust them - and they're usually hefty, so it's not worth the risk.

Your Mazda dealer is irresponsible to suggest that lowering them is sufficient. This doesn't alter the beam's direction and it could still dazzle other drivers.

You can buy a headlamp converter kit, but you may need to ask your dealer to fit it. Modern HID (high-intensity discharge) or xenon headlights often feature an internal shutter than can be adjusted at the back of the headlamp unit.

Halogen headlights can have an external mask applied, but again it may be necessary to get your dealer to do this. Most, though, are a simple self-adhesive fit.

Don't forget to switch the system back as soon as you get home, so you don't dazzle drivers in this country.