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2018 Subaru Legacy
2015 - 2018 Subaru Legacy
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How To Change 2015 Subaru Legacy Headlight Bulb (Full Guide)

How To Change 2015 Subaru Legacy Headlight Bulb (Full Guide)

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Tools & Fluids

Nitrile
Nitrile
Gloves
Safety
Safety
Glasses
Flathead
Flathead
Screwdriver
Flashlight
Flashlight
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How to Replace Headlight Bulbs on a 2015-2018 Subaru Legacy (Low & High Beam)

Step-by-step bulb replacement guide with H11/9005 part numbers, tools list, and safety tips

How to Replace Headlight Bulbs on a 2015-2018 Subaru Legacy (Low & High Beam)

Step-by-step bulb replacement guide with H11/9005 part numbers, tools list, and safety tips for 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018

Orion
Orion

šŸ”§ Legacy - Headlight Bulb Replacement

You can replace the headlight bulbs from under the hood without removing the bumper. The main keys are using the correct bulb type and not touching the new bulb’s glass, which can shorten bulb life.

Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.5-1.0 hours


āš ļø Safety & Precautions

  • āš ļø Turn the headlight switch OFF and let the bulbs cool before touching anything.
  • āš ļø Wear gloves and do not touch the new bulb’s glass with bare fingers.
  • āš ļø Do not force connectors; press the lock tab, then pull.
  • āš ļø Battery disconnect is not required for this job.

šŸ”§ Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

  • Nitrile gloves
  • Safety glasses
  • Small flathead screwdriver
  • Flashlight

šŸ”© Required Parts

HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:

  • Low beam headlight bulb (H11 halogen) - Replace in pairs - Qty: 2
  • High beam headlight bulb (9005 halogen) - Replace in pairs - Qty: 2
  • Dielectric grease (optional) - Qty: 1

šŸ“‹ Before You Begin

  • Park on level ground, shift to Park, and set the parking brake.
  • Open the hood and use a flashlight to locate the rear of each headlight housing.
  • Tip: Replace bulbs in pairs for matching color.

šŸ”Ø Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Identify which bulb you’re replacing (low vs high beam)

  • Use a flashlight to look behind the headlight housing.
  • Low beam is typically the larger rear access position; high beam is usually closer to the inner side of the housing.

Step 2: Create working room (only if your hands don’t fit)

  • Use a flashlight to check if you can reach the bulb base comfortably.
  • If a plastic clip or guide is in the way, use a small flathead screwdriver to gently release the clip (do not pry on the headlight lens).

Step 3: Remove the old bulb

  • Put on nitrile gloves and safety glasses.
  • Grip the bulb’s base (not the wiring) and rotate it counterclockwise about a quarter-turn to unlock it.
  • Pull the bulb straight out of the headlight housing.

Step 4: Disconnect the electrical connector

  • Press the connector lock tab and pull the connector straight off the bulb.
  • If it’s stuck, use a small flathead screwdriver to gently help the lock tab move, then pull (do not break the tab).

Step 5: Install the new bulb (important handling rules)

  • Keep nitrile gloves on and avoid touching the bulb glass.
  • Plug the connector onto the new bulb until it clicks.
  • Tip: A tiny dab helps prevent corrosion.
  • If using it, apply a very small amount of dielectric grease to the connector seal area (not on the bulb glass).

Step 6: Lock the bulb into the headlight housing

  • Insert the bulb straight into the opening, keeping it aligned with the housing’s tabs.
  • Rotate clockwise about a quarter-turn until it stops (locked).

Step 7: Repeat on the other side

  • Use the flashlight and repeat Steps 1-6 for the other headlight.
  • Replace the left and right bulbs as a pair for even brightness and color.

āœ… After Repair

  • Turn the headlights ON and confirm both sides work on low beam.
  • Switch to high beams and confirm both high beams work (if you replaced those too).
  • Walk in front of your Legacy and verify both beams look even (no flicker, no dead bulb warning).
  • If a bulb doesn’t light, turn lights OFF and re-check the connector is fully clicked in and the bulb is fully locked.

šŸ’° DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $80-$200 (parts + labor)

DIY Cost: $30-$120 (parts only)

You Save: $50-$120 by doing it yourself!

Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.5-1.0 hours.


šŸŽÆ Ready to get started?

HowToo makes it easy: same-day/2-day shipping on every part, plus all the tools and specialty tools you need! Check out the parts and tools sections below to add everything to your cart.

Guide for Headlight Bulb replace for these Subaru vehicles

Year Make ModelSub ModelEngineBody Style
2018 Subaru Legacy---
2017 Subaru Legacy---
2016 Subaru Legacy---
2015 Subaru Legacy---
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