What should you check first when assessing headlight conditions?

When assessing headlight conditions, the first check should be the aiming of the headlights. Proper aiming is crucial because headlights that are misaligned can blind oncoming drivers or fail to adequately illuminate the road ahead, compromising safety.

Correctly aimed headlights ensure that the light projected spreads evenly and at the right distance, making it easier for the driver to see the roadway at night or under poor visibility conditions. This adjustment is foundational, as it can impact not only the performance of the lights but also overall driving safety.

While the other factors like color temperature, cleanliness, and brightness levels are also important aspects to consider, they should be evaluated after confirming that the headlights are properly aimed. Misalignment can often mask other issues, making it essential to start with this assessment.