2019 Subaru Crosstrek Bulb Sizes (Headlight, Tail, Fog)

As an ASE-certified master technician, I’ve worked on countless Subarus over the years, and the 2019 Subaru Crosstrek is a frequent visitor to the bay for routine maintenance. Whether you're dealing with a burnt-out brake light or looking to upgrade your dull factory halogens to crisp LEDs, having the right bulb sizes is crucial.

Subaru offered different lighting configurations for the 2019 Crosstrek depending on your trim level. Base and Premium models generally come with traditional halogen reflector headlights, while the Limited and Hybrid trims are equipped with fully integrated LED steering-responsive headlights (SRH).

Here is your complete guide to the 2019 Subaru Crosstrek lighting system.

Quick Reference

(Note: If your Crosstrek Limited or Hybrid has factory LED headlights or fog lights, the diodes are integrated into the housing and cannot be replaced individually like a traditional bulb. You must replace the entire assembly if they fail.)

LED vs Halogen Upgrade Considerations

Upgrading your Base or Premium Crosstrek from halogen to LED is a very common modification. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• DRL / High Beam Shared Bulb: In halogen models, the 9005 bulb acts as both the high beam and the Daytime Running Light (DRL). The DRL functions by running the 9005 bulb at a lower voltage. Many aftermarket LED bulbs do not support this low-voltage dimming and will either flicker, run at full brightness all the time, or fail to turn on in DRL mode. You may need a specific DRL-compatible LED or a CANBUS decoder/anti-flicker harness.
• Turn Signal Hyper-Flashing: If you swap the 7440 turn signal bulbs for LEDs, the vehicle will think the bulb is burnt out due to the low power draw of the LED. This causes "hyper-flashing." To fix this, you must install load resistors or purchase LED bulbs with built-in resistors.
• Housing Glare: The factory halogen reflector housings are designed for the focal point of a halogen filament. When buying aftermarket H11 low beams, choose 1:1 design LEDs that mimic the halogen filament placement to avoid blinding oncoming traffic.

How to Replace Each Bulb

• Low and High Beam (H11/9005): These are easily accessible from under the hood. For the passenger side, you can reach right in. For the driver's side, you may need to remove the air intake duct (held by a few plastic pop-clips) to gain enough clearance. It’s a simple quarter-turn counterclockwise to remove the bulb.
• Fog Lights (H11/H16): Access these from under the front bumper. Turn the steering wheel all the way to one side, remove the plastic push-pins holding the wheel well liner, peel it back, and reach in to twist the bulb out.
• Tail, Brake, and Rear Turn Signals: Open the rear hatch and remove the two 10mm bolts holding the taillight assembly. Carefully pull the assembly straight back to pop it off its retention clips. You will then have access to the twist-lock bulb sockets on the back.
• License Plate (194): Use a small flathead screwdriver to carefully pry the plastic lens covers off above the rear license plate. Pull the wedge bulb straight out.
• Interior Map and Dome Lights: Use a plastic trim pry tool to avoid scratching the housing. Pop the clear plastic lenses off to expose the 194 wedge bulbs (front) and DE3175 festoon bulb (center).

Common Lighting Issues for this Generation

The 2019 Crosstrek is generally highly reliable, but technicians do see a few recurring complaints:

1. Premature Halogen Burnout: If you find yourself replacing H11 low beams frequently, ensure you are not touching the glass of the new bulb with your bare hands. The oils from your skin create hot spots that cause the bulb to shatter or burn out prematurely. Always wear nitrile gloves.
2. Moisture in Taillights: Some owners experience condensation buildup inside the rear taillight assemblies. If the seal on the back of the bulb socket isn't seated correctly during a bulb change, moisture can enter.
3. Steering Responsive Headlight (SRH) Malfunction: For Limited trims, the SRH system relies on steering angle sensors to swivel the headlight beam. Occasionally, a calibration issue or sensor fault will cause the SRH warning light to illuminate on the dash, requiring a scan tool to diagnose.

If you are dealing with persistent electrical issues, blown fuses, or SRH system faults, it’s best to have a professional diagnose the vehicle. Find a trusted shop on Repairius.