What Size Bulbs Does a 1990 Subaru XT 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 1990 Subaru XT Have?
The 1990 Subaru XT features an extensive lighting system with 13 bulb positions. It uses halogen technology with a single 6052 LED dual-filament bulb handling both low and high beams. The XT has been available from 1985 to 1991, and the 1990 model falls in the late-generation years.
Can You Put LED Bulbs in a 1990 Subaru XT?
Upgrading the 1990 Subaru XT to LED headlights is straightforward since it uses a single 6052 LED dual-filament bulb for both low and high beams. You only need one pair of LED bulbs to upgrade both functions. Look for a 6052 LED LED kit that specifically supports dual-filament operation to ensure both beams work correctly. For the fog lights, a LED Fog Light LED bulb provides a clean white output that pairs well with LED headlights.
How to Replace Bulbs on a 1990 Subaru XT
To remove the headlight bulb, disconnect the wiring harness, then twist the bulb counter-clockwise and pull it straight out of the housing. Older model years like the 1990 XT 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 LED Fog Light fog light socket.
Full Upgrade Bundle
Upgrade All 13 Positions at Once
1990 Subaru XT Complete Bulb Size Chart
| Position | Bulb Size | Shop |
|---|---|---|
Low Beam | 6052 LED | Buy 6052 LED |
High Beam | 6052 LED | Buy 6052 LED |
Fog Light | LED Fog Light | Buy LED Fog Light |
Brake Light | 74 | Buy 74 |
Side Marker | 194 LED | Buy 194 LED |
Turn Signal Front | 1156 LED | Buy 1156 LED |
Turn Signal Rear | 1156 LED | Buy 1156 LED |
Reverse Light | 1156 | Buy 1156 |
Dome Light | DE3175 or 67 | Buy DE3175 or 67 |
License Plate | 194 | Buy 194 |
Map Light | 67 | Buy 67 |
Parking Light | 194 | Buy 194 |
Trunk Light | 168 | Buy 168 |
Want to upgrade everything at once?
Shop Complete LED Kit for 1990 Subaru XTHow Long Do 1990 Subaru XT Headlight Bulbs Last?
Standard halogen headlights on the 1990 Subaru XT 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 36 years old, the original bulbs on your XT 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 1990 Subaru XT?
The 6052 low beam bulb on the 1990 Subaru XT is a specific fitment. There are no widely recognized cross-compatible alternatives, so make sure to purchase the exact 6052 size. 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.
1990 Subaru XT Headlight FAQ
Did Subaru XT Bulb Sizes Change Over the Years?
Over its production run from 1985 to 1991, the Subaru XT has seen bulb size changes in the Fog Light, Dome Light and Parking Light positions. The 1990 model uses the newer bulb specification introduced around 1990. Always verify the exact bulb size for your specific 1990 model year using the chart above, as using the wrong size can result in poor fitment or reduced light output.
Other XT Years
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Other Vehicles That Use 6052 LED Bulbs
These vehicles from other makes also use a 6052 LED low beam bulb: