How long do Subaru LED headlights last?
As the owner of Kevin's Autos, I often get asked about the longevity of various car components, including headlights. Subaru vehicles, known for their reliability and performance, often come equipped with LED headlights. In this article, we will explore how long these LED headlights typically last, factors that influence their lifespan, and tips for maintaining them.
Typical Lifespan of Subaru LED Headlights
Subaru LED headlights are designed to last significantly longer than traditional halogen bulbs. On average, you can expect Subaru LED headlights to last between 15,000 to 30,000 hours of use. This is a substantial improvement over halogen bulbs, which generally last around 1,000 to 2,000 hours. The extended lifespan of LED headlights is one of the reasons they have become increasingly popular in modern vehicles.
Factors Influencing Lifespan
While LED headlights are durable, several factors can affect their longevity:
- Quality of the LED: Higher quality LEDs tend to last longer. Subaru uses reliable components, but aftermarket options may vary.
- Heat Management: LEDs generate less heat than halogen bulbs, but poor heat dissipation can shorten their lifespan. Ensure that the headlight housing allows for proper ventilation.
- Electrical System: A stable electrical system is crucial. Voltage spikes or fluctuations can damage LED components.
- Usage Patterns: Frequent use of high beams or driving in harsh conditions can impact the lifespan of your headlights.
Tips for Maintaining LED Headlights
To maximize the lifespan of your Subaru's LED headlights, consider the following maintenance tips:
- Regular Inspections: Check your headlights regularly for any signs of dimming or flickering.
- Clean the Lenses: Dirt and grime can reduce brightness. Clean the headlight lenses with a gentle cleaner to maintain optimal visibility.
- Avoid Overloading the Electrical System: Ensure that any modifications to your vehicle's electrical system are done professionally to avoid damaging the headlights.
- Use Quality Replacement Parts: If you need to replace your LED headlights, opt for high-quality parts that meet Subaru's specifications.
Conclusion
Subaru LED headlights are a fantastic investment for your vehicle, offering longevity and improved visibility. By understanding their lifespan and taking steps to maintain them, you can ensure that your headlights perform well for years to come. If you have any questions or need assistance with your Subaru's headlights or any other auto service, feel free to reach out to us at Kevin's Autos!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do OEM LED headlights last?
OEM LED bulbs can last up to 45,000 hours or 20+ years while aftermarket LED headlights can last anywhere from 5,000 hours to 20,000 hours (approximately 2 to 10 years), depending on the quality of the bulb and condition of the vehicle amongst other factors.
What are the disadvantages of LED headlights?
The glare associated with LED headlights is one of the biggest disadvantages of this technology. The glare can get so bad that it could affect other people on the road. Experts also worry that it can cause long-term retina damage. Also, LED headlights are more expensive than halogen lights.
What is the life expectancy of LED headlights?
50,000 hours
If they're in a housing designed for these bulbs, and they have an adequate heat sink, they can last up to 50,000 hours. For comparison, a halogen bulb only lasts around 500 hours. That means you'll never need to replace the lights in a modern LED headlight or taillight as long as you own the vehicle.
How do I know when my LED light needs replacing?
Light Flickering and Dimming
One of the first signs that your LED track fixtures need replacing is when they begin to flicker or dim inconsistently. Although LED lights are known for their stable illumination, age and wear can cause internal components to deteriorate. This can lead to irregular lighting patterns.
How long should LED lights last on a car?
Average Lifespan
| Bulb | Average Lifespan (Hours) |
|---|---|
| Halogen | 500-1,000 (depending on brightness) |
| Xenon | 10,000 |
| HID | 2,000 |
| LED | 30,000 |
What is the downside of LED headlights?
The problem with LED headlights is that they are incompatible with dark adapted human eyesight – particularly for older drivers – they are too bright, too blue, too 'concentrated' and blinding over too long a distance.
How often should I replace LED headlights?
If properly designed and if kept at reasonable temperatures, You should see a life of 10 to 15 years.
How long do Subaru headlights last?
Out of curiosity, I did some Googling and it looks like there's a pretty wide range, from 15,000 hours to 50,000 hours. However, even at the low end, that's almost two years of continuous operation, so the headlights should outlast the car.
Why are Subaru headlights so dim?
Consequently, the projector lens in the Subaru Outback is not thick enough to project the required intensity of light effectively. Many of our customers have opted to purchase new headlights only to encounter the same issue of inadequate lighting.
How much does it cost to replace a Subaru headlight?
Headlight Replacement:
On average, the cost to replace a headlight on a Subaru can range from $100 to $300 or more per headlight, including parts and labor.
