Our condolences on learning that your headlight is out. We’re also sorry to hear that it’s specifically this car. For reasons that no one outside of Subaru HQ has ever been able to explain, replacing the headlights on the 2010-2014 Subaru Legacy and Outback models is strangely challenging. Ugh. But let’s assist you in solving this problem!
First, a disclaimer: This process is a lot harder than it is in most cars. The headlights on the fourth-generation Legacy and Outback are notoriously difficult to work with. So consider this before deciding whether going to a mechanic would be preferable. If you do proceed, you’re going to need a trim remover tool or a flathead screwdriver.
How Do You Change
- Turn your wheels away from the side you need to work on (so if it’s the driver’s side headlight, turn the wheel right, toward the passenger’s side)
- Find the three pop-out rivets by hand. One will be up inside the wheel well, near the top-front area of the tire, while the other two are just below the edge of the wheel well on the underside of the bumper
- Carefully pull the wheel well panel down and away from the body of the car
- Look up inside the hole using a flashlight. You ought to spot a sizable gray disc. That’s your headlight access cover
- Turn the cover counter-clockwise to loosen and open it, and pull the cover out
- If at all possible, locate the bulb by using your flashlight to examine it and get a sense of its location. There’s a harness to remove from the end of it, then a small clip to push up that releases the bulb
- Old must go, new must come! Replace the bulb
- To reassemble everything, follow these steps in reverse.
5 Things to Know About Changing the Headlights
Changing a burned-out headlight bulb in your One of the simpler services is frequently Subaru. Even those who aren’t car enthusiasts frequently replace their own headlight bulbs. Even though it may be simple, there are still a few crucial factors to take into account. Here are five things to consider if you’re thinking about changing the bulbs in your Subaru.
1. the Bulbs Are Just the Beginning
There is much more to think about than just the headlight bulbs. Even if you change the bulb by yourself, it’s a good idea to check that the headlights are leveled and positioned correctly. The dealership is able to take this action. To ensure that you are maximizing the performance of that new bulb, your headlight lenses might also need to be buff and polished. Again, we’re happy to provide this service.
2. Trust the Experts on LED Headlights
If your Subaru is equipped with LED headlights and one has burned out, it’s best to take it to the dealership. This may be in part due to the fact that replacing them at home may be more challenging with these systems than with conventional headlights. But the main argument for including it is that LED headlights are designed to last a very, very long time. There could be another reason why one of your car’s LED lights isn’t working.
3. Handle Bulbs With Care
However, if your Subaru is fitted with halogen bulbs, you should take extra caution when handling headlight bulbs. A quick way to lose money is to touch a halogen bulb with your bare hands. To function, halogen bulbs must be heated evenly because they become very hot. The bulb might have oil stains if you handled them with your bare hands. This may result in uneven heating, which will burn out the bulb.
4. Use OEM Subaru Parts
Headlights are a crucial safety component that can impact both your car and the cars around it. It only makes sense to trust the best for something like this, and that’s what you’ll find with OEM light bulbs. It can be hit or miss whether aftermarket bulbs have comparable quality. Genuine Subaru OEM bulbs must meet the same exacting standards of quality as Subaru vehicles.
5. Know What You’re Doing
Before performing any kind of service, it’s a good idea to do a little research, whether you’re studying a diagram in a book or viewing a video online. After all, it’s preferable to be completely aware of what needs to be done before you begin it than to have to pause and make decisions in the middle of an action.
Conclusion
It might not be easy replacing a headlight in a 2014 Subaru Legacy or Outback, but it is easy saving hundreds or even thousands of dollars per year on car insurance! Please take the time to plan ahead and thoroughly understand your responsibilities before acting.