What Size Bulbs Does a 2005 Subaru WRX Use?
Correct headlight, fog light, and tail light bulb sizes. Sourced from OEM catalog data.
Installation Difficulty
Easy (Plug and Play)
Est. Replacement Cost
$15 - $40 (Halogen) / $30+ (LED)
What Lighting System Does the 2005 Subaru WRX Have?
The 2005 Subaru WRX features an extensive lighting system with 13 bulb positions. It uses halogen technology with H1 LED low beams and 9005 LED high beams in a dual-bulb configuration. The WRX has been available from 2002 to 2018, and the 2005 model falls in the early-generation years.
Can You Put LED Bulbs in a 2005 Subaru WRX?
To upgrade the 2005 Subaru WRX headlights to LED, you will need a H1 LED LED kit for the low beams and a 9005 LED LED kit for the high beams. Start with the low beams since they are used most often and have the biggest impact on nighttime visibility. For the fog lights, a H3 LED LED bulb provides a clean white output that pairs well with LED headlights.
How to Replace Bulbs on a 2005 Subaru WRX
The H1 bulb uses a wire clip retainer that snaps over the bulb base. To remove the old bulb, disconnect the wiring harness first, then twist the bulb counter-clockwise and pull it out. Older model years like the 2005 WRX typically offer easy access to the headlight bulbs from behind the headlight assembly under the hood. Most owners can complete the swap in under 10 minutes per side. When installing the new bulb, avoid touching the glass with bare fingers. Skin oils create hot spots that shorten bulb life. Wear clean gloves or handle the bulb by its plastic base only. The fog lights are accessed from underneath the front bumper. You may need to remove a few plastic clips or screws from the fender liner to reach the H3 LED fog light socket.
Full Upgrade Bundle
Upgrade All 13 Positions at Once
2005 Subaru WRX Complete Bulb Size Chart
| Position | Bulb Size | Shop |
|---|---|---|
Low Beam | H1 LED | Buy H1 LED |
High Beam | 9005 LED | Buy 9005 LED |
Fog Light | H3 LED | Buy H3 LED |
Brake Light | 921 LED | Buy 921 LED |
Side Marker | 168 LED | Buy 168 LED |
Turn Signal Front | 7440 LED | Buy 7440 LED |
Turn Signal Rear | 7440NA LED | Buy 7440NA LED |
Reverse Light | 7440 | Buy 7440 |
Dome Light | DE3175 | Buy DE3175 |
License Plate | 168 | Buy 168 |
Map Light | DE3175 | Buy DE3175 |
Parking Light | 168 | Buy 168 |
Trunk Light | 921 | Buy 921 |
Want to upgrade everything at once?
Shop Complete LED Kit for 2005 Subaru WRXHow Long Do 2005 Subaru WRX Headlight Bulbs Last?
Standard halogen headlights on the 2005 Subaru WRX have an expected lifespan of 500 to 1,000 hours, which works out to roughly 2 to 3 years of normal use. Signs of a failing halogen bulb include noticeably dimmer output, a yellowish tint compared to the other headlight, or intermittent flickering. At 21 years old, the original bulbs on your WRX are likely overdue for replacement. Even if they still illuminate, reduced brightness significantly impacts nighttime safety. When one headlight burns out, replace both sides at the same time. Bulbs from the same batch age at similar rates, and mismatched brightness is distracting to oncoming drivers.
What Bulbs Are Compatible with the 2005 Subaru WRX?
The H1 low beam bulb on the 2005 Subaru WRX is a specific fitment. There are no widely recognized cross-compatible alternatives, so make sure to purchase the exact H1 size. For the high beams, the 9005 is interchangeable with HB3. Using the wrong bulb size can cause improper beam patterns that reduce your visibility and blind other drivers. It can also cause overheating inside the headlight housing, potentially warping the plastic lens or reflector. Always verify the bulb number before purchasing.
2005 Subaru WRX Headlight FAQ
Did Subaru WRX Bulb Sizes Change Over the Years?
Over its production run from 2002 to 2018, the Subaru WRX has seen bulb size changes in the Low Beam, High Beam and Fog Light positions. The 2005 model uses the earlier bulb specification that was in place before the change around 2007. Always verify the exact bulb size for your specific 2005 model year using the chart above, as using the wrong size can result in poor fitment or reduced light output.
Other WRX Years
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Other Vehicles That Use H1 LED Bulbs
These vehicles from other makes also use a H1 LED low beam bulb: