What Size Bulbs Does a 2018 Subaru WRX Use?
Correct headlight, fog light, and tail light bulb sizes. Sourced from OEM catalog data.
Installation Difficulty
Moderate (Dust covers often present)
Est. Replacement Cost
$15 - $40 (Halogen) / $30+ (LED)
What Lighting System Does the 2018 Subaru WRX Have?
The 2018 Subaru WRX features an extensive lighting system with 13 bulb positions. It uses halogen technology with H11 LED low beams and 9005 LED high beams in a dual-bulb configuration. The WRX has been available from 2002 to 2018, and the 2018 model falls in the late-generation years.
Can You Put LED Bulbs in a 2018 Subaru WRX?
To upgrade the 2018 Subaru WRX headlights to LED, you will need a H11 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 H16 LED LED bulb provides a clean white output that pairs well with LED headlights.
How to Replace Bulbs on a 2018 Subaru WRX
The H11 bulb uses a quarter-turn bayonet mount that locks with a short twist. To remove the old bulb, disconnect the wiring harness first, then twist the bulb counter-clockwise and pull it out. On the 2018 WRX, you will likely encounter rubber dust covers behind the headlight housing. These pull off by hand or unscrew depending on the design. Allow about 15 to 20 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 H16 LED fog light socket.
Full Upgrade Bundle
Upgrade All 13 Positions at Once
2018 Subaru WRX Complete Bulb Size Chart
| Position | Bulb Size | Shop |
|---|---|---|
Low Beam | H11 LED | Buy H11 LED |
High Beam | 9005 LED | Buy 9005 LED |
Fog Light | H16 LED | Buy H16 LED |
Brake Light | High Mount Brake Light | Buy High Mount Brake Light |
Dome Light | DE3175 | Buy DE3175 |
Side Marker | 168 | Buy 168 |
Turn Signal Front | 7440NA | Buy 7440NA |
License Plate | 168 | Buy 168 |
Map Light | DE3175 | Buy DE3175 |
Parking Light | 168 | Buy 168 |
Turn Signal Rear | 7440NA | Buy 7440NA |
Reverse Light | 921 | Buy 921 |
Trunk Light | 168 | Buy 168 |
Want to upgrade everything at once?
Shop Complete LED Kit for 2018 Subaru WRXHow Long Do 2018 Subaru WRX Headlight Bulbs Last?
Standard halogen headlights on the 2018 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 8 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 2018 Subaru WRX?
The H11 low beam bulb on the 2018 Subaru WRX is cross-compatible with H8, H9, H16 bulbs. These share the same physical base and electrical connection, so they will fit the socket. However, H11 is the recommended size because it is optimized for the wattage and beam pattern designed into your headlight housing. 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.
2018 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 2018 model uses the newer bulb specification introduced around 2007. Always verify the exact bulb size for your specific 2018 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 H11 LED Bulbs
These vehicles from other makes also use a H11 LED low beam bulb: