How much does it cost to replace a headlight on a Subaru Forester?
Typically, replacing a headlight on a Subaru Forester costs between about $50 and $1,200, depending on whether you replace a bulb or the entire headlight assembly, the headlight type (halogen, LED, or HID), and whether you buy aftermarket parts or OEM from a dealer.
Headlight prices vary across Forester generations, from older models with halogen setups to newer trims that use LED or HID lighting. While a simple bulb swap is relatively inexpensive, a full assembly replacement—especially with OEM parts—can be significantly more costly. The following sections break down the main options, typical price ranges, and tips to save money.
Two main replacement options
This section explains the two paths most owners consider when a headlight needs service: swapping just a bulb or replacing the entire headlight assembly.
- Bulb replacement: If your issue is a burnt-out bulb, you’ll typically pay only for the bulb itself and a small amount of labor. Bulbs can range from about $5 to $60, and labor, if done at a shop, often brings the total to roughly $50 to $150, depending on the vehicle year and shop rates. It is often the most affordable option.
- Full headlight assembly replacement: If the lens is cracked, the housing is damaged, or you want to upgrade to LED/HID, you’ll replace the whole unit. aftermarket assemblies commonly cost about $100 to $500 for the part, with labor around $60 to $150; dealer/OEM assemblies can be substantially higher, typically $400 to $900 or more for the part plus similar labor, bringing total costs into the $650 to $1,200+ range depending on model year and configuration.
In short, the decision between a bulb swap and a full assembly drives the bulk of the cost, and OEM parts are the most expensive path.
Cost ranges by model year and headlight type
Prices also vary by Forester generation and whether the car uses halogen, HID, or LED headlights, as well as by aftermarket versus OEM sourcing.
- Halogen headlights (older Foresters or standard halogen replacements): Bulbs are inexpensive but the full assembly replacement tends to be cheaper with aftermarket parts; expect roughly $25 to $100 for bulbs, and $200 to $500 total for a full-assembly replacement if you choose aftermarket parts, with dealer pricing higher.
- LED or HID headlights (newer Foresters or higher trims): Components and labor cost more due to specialized bulbs or modules; headlight assembly parts often range from $150 to $700, and labor can add $60 to $200, bringing typical aftermarket totals to about $210 to $900, while OEM/dealer replacements can push toward $700 to $1,200 or more.
Prices will vary by the exact year and trim, as well as by location and shop. Getting multiple quotes helps identify the best value.
How to get an accurate quote
To obtain a precise price, contact both Subaru dealers and independent shops with your Forester’s year, trim, and whether you need a bulb or a full assembly. Ask for part numbers, confirm whether labor is included, and inquire about warranties on parts and workmanship. Some retailers also offer DIY-friendly bulbs that save money if you’re comfortable replacing bulbs yourself.
Summary
Replacing a headlight on a Subaru Forester can be as affordable as a simple bulb swap or as costly as a full OEM headlight replacement. Expect roughly $50–$150 for a bulb-only service, and roughly $650–$1,200+ for a full headlight assembly, with OEM parts generally at the higher end. Costs vary by year, generation, lighting type, and labor rates. Obtaining multiple quotes from different shops is a practical way to ensure you get the best value.
