Hydrocorrector of headlights: design and principle of operation, instructions for repair and replacement with your own hands

The direction of the light stream that the car's head optics emits is directly related to the mass of the cargo that the car is carrying. If there is a lot of it, the rear part of the body sags, the headlights begin to rise up, poorly illuminating the road and blinding oncoming drivers. As a result, the motorist has uncertain control of the situation, where an accident is not far away. The necessary change in the angle of light flow is provided by the headlight hydraulic corrector. And you can do this without leaving your car. According to European standards, the corrector must be on all cars manufactured after 1999. What is this device and how does it work?

The headlights must be correct

What is a headlight hydrocorrector?

Light control is carried out from the cabin by changing the position of a special switch. Similar devices are installed on classic VAZ 2105-2107 models, front-wheel drive 2108-2109, and more modern 2110-2115. Structurally, an auto-corrector operating on hydraulics is a series of connections where the main cylinder, controlled by an adjusting bolt from the passenger compartment, is connected to the worker through a tube. The last one is on the headlight. The entire structure is non-demountable.

Headlight hydraulic corrector: complete set

The principle of operation of the headlight range control and options for its implementation

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In its simplest form, the principle or description of the work will be as follows: the car has the ability to adjust the light directly from the interior. If the loading of the car has changed, for example, additional passengers have boarded, or the trunk is loaded, then the light will be shifted upward, which will lead to blinding oncoming drivers. To avoid this, it is possible to configure its direction, which allows you to move the light beam down or up to return normal lighting.

The described principle, which forms the basis of the corrector’s operation, is implemented using different methods. Today the adjustment could be:

forced action or automatic, in two versions, when used:

Forced adjustment

With this approach, the light flux is controlled manually, which is why a special switch is used in the car interior. Changing its position leads to a change in the position of the lighting fixtures.

The work of the Silich-Zenit autocorrector on a Hyundai Solaris

with installed alternative optics with lenses.

Depending on the type of drive used in such a device, there are:

• electromechanical headlight range control;
• mechanical headlight range control;
• hydraulic;
• pneumatic, etc.

As an example of how any of the devices mentioned works, consider an electric headlight range control unit. It would be more correct to call it not electrical, but electromechanical. It includes:

1. position switch;
2. electric gear motor located on each headlight;
3. connecting wires.

The principle by which such a device works is quite simple. When the position of the switch in the car is changed, an electrical signal (voltage) is supplied to the gearmotor. Its rod, one end of which is located on the headlight reflector, moves. This movement of the rod leads to a change in the position of the associated reflector and, ultimately, in the luminous flux.

Automatic luminous flux correction

When an automatic headlight leveler is installed on a car, the driver does not need to do anything additional; in this case, the automation works for him.

It includes:

• device control unit;
• ride height sensors;
• actuators.

As already mentioned, its operation can occur in static and dynamic mode. In static mode, the automation controls the vehicle's ground clearance, and when it changes, due to additional loading of the vehicle, the control unit sends an electrical signal to the actuators to adjust the position of the lighting fixtures.

However, this mode of operation, with the beginning of the use of xenon lamps, turned out to be insufficient. The light flux they generate is so powerful that even its short-term exposure can blind oncoming drivers. Therefore, to prevent such a phenomenon, a dynamic corrector appeared.

Its main difference is speed. The operation of such a corrector is capable of changing the direction of the light flux in a fraction of a second. This allows you to keep the luminous flux within specified limits when accelerating the car, braking it, cornering and on uneven roads. Thanks to this, when adjusted correctly, even bright headlights do not blind oncoming drivers when making maneuvers.

Headlight range control has become a mandatory element of car design. Its use improves driving safety at night by ensuring constant illumination of the road surface and reducing the possibility of dazzling other drivers.

Where is it located and what does it look like

If we take the VAZ 2114 headlight hydraulic corrector as an example, the working cylinders are located under the headlights. The master cylinder is located under the adjustment knob in the passenger compartment. It turns manually. In the lower position, the light flux is directed downward (the pressure in the system is greatest), in the upper position it is directed upward. The cylinders are connected to each other by plastic tubes containing a non-freezing liquid (most often it is antifreeze or “anti-freeze”). The hydraulic corrector is sold as a kit: everything is assembled - plastic cylinders along with tubes.

How to use concealer

The corrector has knob A on the dashboard of the VAZ 2107 to the right of the steering wheel, next to knob B for adjusting the brightness of the dashboard lighting. If you rotate knob B counterclockwise, the brightness of the light decreases.

As they say, the control knob of the device has an “intuitive interface.” To change the direction of the light flow, with the trunk loaded and the headlights on low beam, you need to align the mark shown on the regulator with one of the marks marked on the unit body so that the beam of light does not blind oncoming drivers.

The VAZ 2107 hydraulic corrector has four switching options (in order from large point to small point):

If not

it turns out to adjust
the headlights
on
NIVA
2121,21213,21214 then watch this video to the end.

I - minimum load, the front of the car is slightly lowered: one driver, or there is a passenger in front;

II - driver and four passengers, the body sags evenly downwards;

III - the same as II, with an additional load of up to 75 kg in the trunk:

IV - driver and maximum trunk load: the “nose up” the most.

In order to see how the angle of inclination of the light beam changes during operation of the corrector, it is better to place the car perpendicular to the wall. Let us recall the standard requirements for the location of the low beam.

Design and principle of operation using the example of the VAZ 2114

The usual standard design, installed, for example, on a VAZ 2114, includes:

• the main block (the place under the “torpedo”), where the hydraulic cylinder with the switch is located;
• hydraulic drive with plastic tubes;
• working cylinders with mechanisms that regulate the headlight reflector;
• non-freezing liquid.

If it is necessary to redirect the light flux at the desired angle, a low-pressure hydraulic system is activated, which can be changed manually. The driver turns the handle, and the rod of the actuator cylinders moves by 6-7.5 mm, which is quite enough to achieve the desired lighting angle.

Location of the working cylinders of the VAZ 2114 hydraulic corrector

In what cases is replacement or repair required?

It is not difficult to understand that the headlight corrector is not functioning or is working poorly: when you try to change the direction of the light beam, you notice that the head optics do not respond to turning the hydraulic corrector knob and the light is directed in one position. Moreover, both headlights and one of them may not work. If there is a problem, you will have to dismantle the device. The next stage is a complete replacement of the headlight hydraulic corrector: its components are non-separable and cannot be restored.

Reasons why the hydraulic corrector does not work and troubleshooting methods

Most often, the corrector stops working due to fluid leaking from the working, master cylinder or connecting tubes. This may be due to cracking of rubber seals (sometimes due to a sharp drop in air temperature during frost). As a result, the cylinder pistons become stuck in one position, and it becomes impossible to adjust the headlights when the load in the car changes. If the light is adjusted, but within a very small range, the culprit may be one of the cylinders, where the piston stroke has decreased. Another reason why the headlight hydraulic corrector does not work is the loose engagement of the rod with the lever in the actuator. There is only one method for troubleshooting - replacing worn-out or worn-out components and parts.

Hydrocorrector malfunctions

Among the most likely causes of a non-working headlight hydrocorrector is depressurization of the joints of tubes and sealing cuffs. The consequence of loose connections is loss of working fluid and air being sucked into the system. For the working pistons to move properly, the system must be completely filled with liquid. The manufacturer does not suggest repairing the hydraulic corrector, so if the system fails, the assembly is replaced. Nevertheless, the article “Repairing a hydraulic corrector” shows that the system can be troubleshooted and restored.

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Where is the lamp hydraulic corrector located? Each headlight unit has an actuator that acts on a reflector, from which 2 tubes go into the cabin. Through a technological hole in the engine shield, the tubes go to the master cylinder and the switch on the dashboard.

Reasons for failure of the hydraulic regulator

If, when turning the headlight adjustment knob, the light beam does not change direction, this indicates a failure of the hydraulic corrector. There are several reasons for the malfunction:

• One of the working cylinders is jammed. In this case, the corresponding reflector will not rotate.
• The connecting tubes were damaged and the system depressurized.
• Failure of sealing due to damage or wear of seals.

If the system is depressurized, it is impossible to regulate both lamps. Most often, they lower and take a lower position, as a result, the headlights only illuminate the road next to the car. At night, this increases the risk of an emergency. You can try adjusting the hydraulic device rod.

Manufacturers of hydraulic correctors did not provide for the repair of the closed system as a whole and individual elements. Therefore, if the device fails, it is necessary to either install a new hydraulic regulator or replace the hydraulic device with an electric one.

Some car enthusiasts try to repair the regulator, but this does not bring long-term results. For example, they replace the working rod with a self-tapping screw of a suitable diameter with the sharp end removed. This makes it possible to fix the reflectors in a certain position. It will be impossible to make adjustments from the interior.

If, during a visual inspection of the hydraulic regulator, cracks are found in the connecting tubes, the repair will consist of eliminating them. The cause of cracks is temperature changes in the engine compartment of the car. If the crack is close to the main or working cylinder, cut off the cracked end. The tube damaged in the middle is completely replaced by pumping with antifreeze.

What to look for when choosing a new concealer

These devices come in three types: manual, hydraulic, pneumatic or electric. The last option is considered the most technologically advanced. Devices of this type are installed on almost all latest VAZ models. Nevertheless, many car owners prefer to install hydraulic correctors: it’s all about the cost, which is 4-5 times lower than other types of devices or more, if we also remember automatic systems. And since the headlight hydrocorrector is not repaired, in any case you will have to purchase a new set. There is actually only one manufacturer of hydraulic systems on sale - the DAAZ plant. Modifications of correctors for various VAZ models:

• for “classics” 2105-07 number 2105-3718010;
• for front-wheel drive 2108-2199 - No. 2108-3718010;
• for 2110-2112 - No. 2110-378010 and 378010-10;
• for 2113-2115 - No. 2114-3718010;
• for Niva - No. 21213-3718010.

Replacing optics for VAZ 2110

Sometimes the VAZ 2110 headlight needs to be completely replaced. Replacing the headlight hydraulic corrector on a VAZ 2110, from the headlight corrector itself, REPAIRING a VAZ 2110. Construction and repair of VAZ cars The principle of operation of the heater heater on a VAZ 2110 2111 2112. The work should not cause any particular difficulties.

1. Disconnect the wire from the “–” terminal of the battery.

2. Remove the radiator trim.

3. Disconnect the block with wires.

4. Press the latch of the hydraulic corrector cylinder and turn it clockwise 90° until it stops.

5. Remove it from the socket without disconnecting it from the hoses.

6. Replacing and repairing the headlight hydraulic corrector on a VAZ 2110. Unscrew the three mounting bolts and move the headlight unit back.

7. We move the trim to the center of the car by about 4 cm so that its hook comes out of engagement with the wing.

8. In order to move the pad, loosen the bolts securing the buffer from above to push it forward.

9. Press on the bottom of the lining so that the flange can easily disengage, and remove the lining.

10. Unscrew the nut of the lower fastening of the illuminator.

11. Disconnect the block from the turn signal, pull the light towards you and remove it.

12. Unscrew the fastening screws to disassemble the illuminator.

13. Disconnect the headlight and turn signal.

14. We remove two hooks on the pointer body from engagement with the body of the optics part.

15. Reassemble and install the headlight in the reverse order.

Replacing headlight hydraulic corrector

If you decide to install a hydraulic corrector, which is installed standard on Lada cars of previous years of production, you can do the work yourself. On more modern cars (Priora, Kalina, Granta, etc.) electrical systems can be installed.

Parsing and removing old

Algorithm of actions for dismantling the hydraulic corrector:

• unscrew the screws on the clamps securing the tubes to the corrector parts;
• disconnect the actuators attached to the snap-on latches from the headlight units;
• from the passenger compartment, remove the rotating handle of the hydraulic regulator from its place (it is located directly on the main cylinder);
• unscrew the plastic nut with which the main cylinder is screwed to the “torpedo”;
• pull it out (after pushing the rubber seal into the cabin) complete with plastic tubes and actuators.

Hydraulic corrector in the cabin with the handle removed

Installation and connection of a new

Installation of a hydraulic corrector instead of a faulty one is carried out in the reverse order of dismantling - nothing complicated is observed here.

If you decide to install an electric device (it is ideal instead of a hydraulic one), the algorithm of actions will be slightly different:

• remove the negative terminal from the battery;
• dismantle the old hydraulic corrector along with the pipes, main and working cylinders;
• replace it with an electrical device;
• dismantle the lever of the old mechanism in the cabin;
• connect the “plus” of the electrical corrector to the 20th contact of the block, the “minus” can be “found” under any body stud in contact with the metal;
• instead of plastic tubes, lay the wires from the kit and, for reliability, secure them with dielectric clamps to the common wiring harness;
• attach the actuators to the headlight housings;
• Replace the removed negative battery terminal and check the operation of the system.

Installing a new device (master cylinder)

During the installation of the electric corrector, it makes sense to simultaneously check the efficiency of the optics. If you notice condensation inside the headlamp, it is better to replace it, because in the future the level of road illumination will only worsen.

More:

• a black coating inside indicates that the light bulb does not have long to “live”, so it needs to be replaced and it is better to do this in advance, and not on the way;
• if you notice peeling of the reflective layer, you will also have to buy a new headlight (it is better to change both units together);
• inspect the block lens - if the scratches and chips are serious, it is recommended to replace the old glass, using a special sealant when installing a new one;
• Before installation, clean the protective caps from dirt.

The best and most expensive option is to install an automatic correction system. In this case, the driver does not need to do anything: the device will automatically adjust the beam of light. The design includes sensors installed at the front and rear. Their task is to determine the ground clearance on both axles of the car. This allows you to “calculate” the tilt of the body and send the necessary information to the electronic control unit. He gives a command to the actuators, and, taking into account the speed of movement, the latter, through a gear motor, change the angle of inclination of the head optics. The system is quite complex and requires a professional approach during installation.

A simpler option involves installing one ultrasonic sensor at the rear. It is suspended on a hinge and secured. The shortest distance to the road surface is 25 cm. You can install the system yourself.

Light adjustment

After installing a new corrector (no matter hydraulic or electric), it makes sense to adjust the light beam. To do this, you need a flat wall, which must be marked in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations (see the car’s operating instructions). The marking can be done independently, in accordance with the figure below.

Further:

• stop the car five meters from the marked wall;
• use the hydraulic corrector handle to set the correct light beam;
• Each headlight can be adjusted individually;
• if the “efforts” of the hydraulic corrector are not enough, use the mechanical levers located on the headlight unit.

Wall marking scheme for light adjustment

Is it possible to repair a hydraulic corrector?

Manufacturers of correctors for the Lada Granta did not provide for the possibility of restoring the device. It is assumed that the driver should make a change. However, it is possible to repair the hydraulic corrector yourself, although it eliminates the problem only for a while. It is impossible to achieve full functionality, however, the lampshades are installed in the working position and secured in it.

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The choice between an electric corrector or a hydraulic regulator is based on several parameters:

• cost – hydraulics will cost much less than an electric corrector;
• operating conditions - when the car often finds itself in situations with sudden temperature changes, it is worth paying more, but getting a reliable adjustment system;
• car model - not all cars allow you to connect an electric corrector, however, it is possible to install one on a Lada.

Barbaric repair method

Many drivers do not burden themselves with either repair or replacement of the hydraulic corrector. When the headlights begin to shine downwards, they simply screw in screws from the back of the working cylinder. Adjustment of the position of the rod and the level of tilt of the headlights is carried out by screwing in and unscrewing the screws.

After such a repair, the concept of a headlight range control is no longer applicable to the system, since the possibility of quickly adjusting the angle of the headlight reflector from the passenger compartment disappears. But such repairs have a right to life if the malfunction caught you on the road and there is simply no other way to raise the headlights.

Recovery without removal

1. Pull the actuators out of the headlight assembly.
2. Remove the tubes from their seats, and then secure the tubes so that the remaining working fluid does not leak out of them. It is better to preheat the landing site, but you can simply cut the tubes at the edge of the landing sites. Check the stroke of the actuator cylinders by moving them by the rod using pliers. The pistons should move without jamming.
3. Each actuator has a plug for bleeding the system, which must first be pulled out.
4. Turn the switch on the dashboard to position O. Fill the tubes with antifreeze so that a small drop remains on top, then put them on the fittings of the actuators.
5. Position the slave cylinder bodies so that the bleeder hole is the highest point.
6. Holding the rod in the maximum retracted position, fill the working cylinder with liquid until a small “hill” forms above the bleeder hole.
7. Close the plug.

The system should work, but since the seals of the connections at the main cylinder, the regulator at the dashboard and the seals of the working cylinders were not checked, one cannot be sure of the long service life of the hydraulic corrector after such repairs. This restoration method will not work if the system is airy at the master cylinder in the cabin.

Restoration of headlight hydraulic corrector

You need to know where the headlight hydraulic corrector is located and how to remove it, since for a complete troubleshooting you will need to dismantle the working cylinders and the main adjustment mechanism. Take 2 small pieces of tube to connect the working cylinders to the main mechanism after removal, fill the system with water. If the device is operational, set the switch to the maximum headlight raise mode and leave the mechanisms in this position for several hours. If no leaks have appeared during this time, the system can be filled with antifreeze and installed on the car. If the leak does not appear in the pipe connections, it is better to replace the hydraulic corrector with a new one or install an electric corrector instead.

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Only new coolant should be used so that dirt particles do not interfere with the normal movement of the pistons. Remember that the system must be completely filled with working fluid. To restore, you will need a syringe and a blunt needle so as not to damage the cylinder seals. Do-it-yourself repairs, the assembly and disassembly process are perfectly shown in the video.

Price

A hydraulic corrector for VAZ cars is quite inexpensive - from 300 to 500 rubles. An electromechanical device will cost approximately 1800-2000 rubles.

There are also universal types of autocorrectors suitable for installation on any make of car. For example, a system from the manufacturer Hella will cost from 14 thousand rubles.

Do not forget: for xenon headlights, regardless of the make and model of the car, only the installation of an automatic corrector is required.

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