Loading

What size bulb for 2013 Subaru XV?

The short answer: for most 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek models, the common bulb sizes are H11 for low-beam headlights, 9005 for high-beam headlights, and H11 for front fog lights if your trim includes them. Other exterior lights typically use standard sizes such as 7440/7443 for turn signals and 3157 for tail/brake lights, with interior and license-plate lights using wedge bulbs like W5W/194. Climate, market, and trim can cause variations, so always verify against your specific vehicle.


Headlights: low-beam and high-beam


Headlight bulbs are the most frequently replaced on the XV Crosstrek. The following sizes cover the common US-spec configuration, though regional variations exist.



  • Low-beam headlight: H11

  • High-beam headlight: 9005


These two sizes are the baseline for standard reflector or LED/HID upgrades. If your vehicle has a different setup or an aftermarket conversion, sizes may differ.


Fog lights


Fog lights are optional on many XV Crosstrek models. When equipped, the typical bulb size is the same as the low-beam headlight in many markets, but regional variations apply.



  • Front fog light: H11 (verify if your trim includes fogs and confirm market-specific options)


If your Crosstrek didn’t come with fogs, this section may not apply. Always double-check the exact spec for your vehicle’s region and trim.


Exterior signaling and rear lighting


Turn signals, tail lamps, and backup lights use common automotive bulb sizes. Sizes can vary by market, but these are typical references for the 2013 XV Crosstrek.



  • Front turn signal: 7440

  • Rear turn signal: 7443 (some markets use 7440 for both front and rear)

  • Tail light / stop light: 3157 (dual-contact bulbs are common for combined taillight/stop functions)

  • Backup light: 921


Because lens colors and circuit design differ by region, it’s wise to confirm with a quick check of the bulb stamp or your owner’s manual before purchasing replacements.


Interior and license-plate lighting


Interior illumination and exterior plate lighting rely on wedge-style bulbs in most trims. These are among the easiest to source and replace, but sizes can vary by market and model year.



  • Dome/map and courtesy lights: W5W (also labeled 194 in some catalogs)

  • License plate light: W5W/194 (depends on market)

  • Trunk or cargo area light: festoon bulbs (typical sizes around 31 mm, but verify)


If your interior lighting seems dim or a lamp is out, start with a quick bulb inspection to confirm the exact type for your car’s trim.


How to confirm the exact bulb size for your vehicle


Because bulb sizes can vary by market, trim level, and whether the car has aftermarket upgrades, use one of these quick methods to be precise:



  • Consult the owner’s manual for the exact bulb specification by location.

  • Remove the failing bulb and read the stamped size on the base.

  • Check Subaru’s official parts catalog or a reputable parts retailer by year/model/trim.

  • Ask a dealership service department to confirm with your VIN if you’re unsure.


Having the correct bulb size helps ensure proper fit, beam pattern, and electrical compatibility, especially for high-heat or high-output bulbs.


Summary


For a 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek, the typical bulb sizes are: low-beam headlights H11, high-beam headlights 9005, front fogs (if equipped) H11, front turn signals 7440, rear turn signals 7443 (or 7440 in some markets), tail/brake 3157, backup 921, and interior/license plate lights in wedge sizes such as W5W/194. Always verify with your specific trim and market using the owner’s manual or a trusted parts source, as regional variations do occur.

Is H7 a high or low beam bulb?


Yes, H7 bulbs can be used for both high and low beams, but they are a single-filament bulb and require a separate bulb for each function. This means if your car uses H7 bulbs, it will have one H7 bulb for the low beam and another, separate H7 bulb for the high beam, as opposed to a dual-filament bulb (like an H4) that does both in a single unit. 
This video shows how to replace H7 bulbs for high and low beams: 48sVagabond BuildsYouTube · Jan 13, 2025

  • Single-filament design: An H7 is a single-filament bulb, meaning it only has one filament and can only perform one function: either high beam or low beam. 
  • Separate bulbs: To have both high and low beams, a vehicle using H7 bulbs must have two separate H7 bulbs in each headlight assembly: one for the low beam and one for the high beam. 
  • Vehicle-specific: While H7 bulbs are common for both functions, it's essential to check your car's owner's manual to confirm if your vehicle uses H7s for both, or if it uses a different type of bulb for one or both beams, such as a dual-filament bulb like an H4. 



What kind of headlight bulbs are in a 2012 Subaru XV?


H11 Bulbs
SUBARU XV Car Bulbs
It looks like your vehicle requires H11 Bulbs for dipped beam and HB3 Bulbs for your main beam application.



What size headlight bulb for 2013 Subaru Crosstrek XV?


H11
2013 Subaru Crosstrek Bulb – Headlight. H11 12 Volt 55 Watt Halogen - 84920YA000 - Genuine Subaru Part.



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. 


Kevin's Auto

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.