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What bulbs does a Subaru Impreza use?

The bulb types for a Subaru Impreza vary by year and trim, but most generations rely on halogen headlights with standard upgrade paths such as H11 low beams and 9005 high beams, while newer models may use LED or HID headlamps. Exact requirements depend on your exact vehicle.

To determine the precise bulb types for your specific Impreza, you’ll need to reference the owner’s manual, inspect the bulb or headlight housing, or consult Subaru’s official parts diagrams. This article provides a practical overview and steps to verify the correct bulbs for your car.

Understanding variability by year and trim

Subaru updated headlight technology over the years, moving from traditional halogen configurations toward projector-style headlights, and in some trims toward LED or HID setups. Because bulb types are tied to the headlight design, the exact replacement can differ from one Gen i to another, and between base and higher-end trims.

Common bulb configurations you might encounter

These are representative configurations you may see when servicing a Subaru Impreza. Use them as a quick reference, but confirm on your specific year/model.

Headlights with separate high and low beams using standard halogen bulbs, often H11 for the low beam and 9005 for the high beam; fog lights commonly use H11 or H16; some older models used H4 or H7 in halogen headlight assemblies.

Headlights built with projector-style housings on some trims using H11 low beams and 9005 high beams, with fog lights as H11 or, less commonly, H16 depending on year.

Hybrid or LED headlights in newer trims (late-2010s to present) where the headlight module may be LED-based and not serviceable as a replaceable bulb; fog lights still often use halogen bulbs (H11/H16) if equipped.

Turn signals and parking lights typically use separate bulbs such as 3157 or 7440/7443 variants, varying by year and region; reverse and interior bulbs differ by function.

In practice, the exact bulb stamping in the socket or the packaging from the dealership will confirm the precise type for your car. If in doubt, consult the owner’s manual or Subaru’s parts diagrams for your VIN.

How to verify the exact bulb in your Impreza

Follow these steps to confirm the precise bulb type for your specific vehicle:

Check the owner's manual or the maintenance section for the bulb specification page for headlights, fog lights, and signals.

Open the hood and carefully remove the headlight bulb by releasing the retaining clip or twist-lock, then read the bulb's imprint (e.g., H11, 9005) to identify the type.

Inspect the light assemblies for any marking or part numbers on the back of the bulb or on the headlight housing itself; cross-check with Subaru's parts diagrams online or at a dealership.

Use the vehicle identification number (VIN) to pull up the exact parts catalog for your trim; many online catalogs let you search by VIN and will show bulb types.

Consider replacing bulbs in pairs when upgrading or replacing for uniform brightness, particularly for headlights that appear dim or mismatched.

If you prefer professional help, contact a Subaru dealer or a trusted shop with your year, trim, and location to confirm the correct bulb type and avoid mistakes.

Verifying using multiple sources helps ensure you purchase the correct bulb and avoid issues such as incorrect voltage, wattage, or fitment.

Special considerations: LED and HID headlights

When your Impreza uses LED or HID modules

On higher trims and newer generations, the headlamps may rely on LED or HID technology with different maintenance needs. In many cases, you won't replace a bulb; you replace the entire LED module or ballast assembly, or you replace HID bulbs with manufacturer-approved parts. Always follow Subaru's guidance for your specific year and trim to ensure proper color temperature and optical alignment.

Fog lights and other auxiliary bulbs

Fog lights are commonly halogen in many Impreza models, but some trims use LED fogs or different bulb types. If your fog lights fail, verify the exact bulb type and consider practical upgrades only with compatible hardware and proper fitment.

Summary

Bulb types for the Subaru Impreza vary across generations and trims, with common halogen configurations including H11 for low-beam headlights, 9005 for high beams, and H11/H16 for fog lights. Newer models may use LED or HID headlamps, which can involve different replacement practices. Confirm the exact bulb type for your car using the owner’s manual, bulb markings, or Subaru’s official parts diagrams, and replace bulbs in pairs when appropriate for even lighting and safety.

Are H11 and 9005 the same bulb?

No, H11 and 9005 bulbs are not the same, and they are not interchangeable because they have different bases, wattage, and beam patterns. The H11 is typically a lower-wattage bulb used for low beams and fog lights, while the 9005 is a higher-wattage bulb designed for high beams.

Feature	H11	9005 (HB3)
Primary Use	Low beams, fog lights	High beams
Wattage	55 watts	65 watts
Brightness (Lumens)	~1350 lumens	~1700-2100 lumens
Base Type	PGJ19-2	P20d
Beam Pattern	Focused, downward-facing light	Brighter, wider beam for longer distance
Plug Design	2 narrow prongs with a specific locking tab	2 wide prongs with a different locking tab

What kind of bulbs are in Subaru headlights?

The Subaru headlight bulb type varies by model and year, but common sizes include H11 for low beams and 9005 (HB3) for high beams on many models, such as the 2015-2019 Outback and 2017-2018 Impreza. Other models may use different bulbs, like the H7 on some older Outbacks. Always check your owner's manual or use a vehicle-specific compatibility tool to confirm the correct type for your car.
Common Subaru headlight bulb types by model

2015-2019 Subaru Outback:
- Low Beam: H11
- High Beam: 9005 (HB3)
2017-2018 Subaru Impreza:
- Headlight (Low Beam): H11
2009-2012 Subaru Outback:
- Low Beam: H7

Important considerations

Check your specific vehicle: Bulb types can differ even within the same model year depending on the trim level. The best way to be sure is to check your owner's manual or use an online bulb finder tool from a parts retailer.
Replace bulbs in pairs: It's recommended to replace both headlight bulbs at the same time to ensure even brightness and performance.
Avoid touching the glass: When handling new bulbs, avoid touching the glass with your bare hands. Oils from your skin can cause the bulb to overheat and fail prematurely.

What kind of headlight bulb does a 2006 Subaru Impreza take?

The 2006 Subaru Impreza uses an H7 bulb for the low beam and a 9005 (HB3) bulb for the high beam. An H7 bulb is also sometimes specified for the low and high beams depending on the model sub-variant. Fog lights for this model are typically H3 bulbs.

Low Beam: H7
High Beam: 9005 (HB3)
Fog Light: H3

Always check your owner's manual or consult a professional to ensure you have the correct bulb type for your specific vehicle model and trim before purchasing.

What kind of bulb does a Subaru Impreza headlight take?

The Subaru Impreza headlight bulb type depends on the model year, but for many recent models, the low beam is an H11 and the high beam is a 9005 (HB3). Older models may have different bulb types, such as D2R for the low beam in certain HID equipped vehicles.

Low Beam: H11 (common for most models)
High Beam: 9005 (HB3)
HID Low Beam (in select models): D2R
Fog Lights: Varies, but often 9006 (HB4) or PSX24W

Always confirm the specific bulb type for your Impreza's model year and trim to ensure correct replacement.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.