2014 Subaru Impreza Headlight Guide: Bulbs, Replacement & More

Hey guys! Are you a proud owner of a 2014 Subaru Impreza and finding that your headlights aren't quite as bright as they used to be? Or maybe one has burned out completely? Don't worry, you've come to the right place! This guide is your one-stop resource for everything you need to know about the headlights on your 2014 Impreza. We'll cover the types of bulbs you need, how to replace them, and even some tips for upgrading your headlights for better visibility. Let's dive in!

Understanding Your 2014 Impreza Headlights

So, understanding your 2014 Impreza headlights is the first step. Your Subaru Impreza uses specific types of headlight bulbs, and knowing which ones you need is crucial before heading to the auto parts store. The 2014 Impreza typically uses halogen bulbs for its headlights. Halogen bulbs are a standard type of automotive lighting, known for their decent brightness and relatively low cost. These bulbs work by passing electricity through a tungsten filament, which heats up and produces light. While they aren't the brightest option on the market, they are reliable and easy to find. For the low beams, your Impreza likely uses an H11 bulb. The H11 is a common type of halogen bulb known for its good balance of brightness and lifespan. For the high beams, your car probably uses a 9005 bulb. The 9005 bulb is designed to produce a more focused and intense beam of light, perfect for illuminating the road ahead when you need extra visibility. It's also worth noting that some 2014 Impreza models might have slightly different headlight configurations, especially if they have the optional fog lights. Fog lights usually use an H11 or similar bulb, and they are designed to provide better visibility in foggy or low-visibility conditions. If you're unsure which bulbs your specific Impreza model uses, check your owner's manual. The manual will have a detailed list of all the bulbs used in your car, including the headlights, turn signals, and brake lights. This will save you a lot of guesswork and ensure you buy the correct replacement bulbs. Knowing the right bulb types not only makes replacement easier but also helps you choose the right upgrades if you decide to go with brighter or more efficient options like LED bulbs. Stick around, and we'll talk more about those later!

Choosing the Right Replacement Bulbs

Now, choosing the right replacement bulbs can seem daunting with so many options available, but don't sweat it, it's simpler than you think! When it comes to replacing your 2014 Subaru Impreza's headlight bulbs, you have several choices: halogen, LED, and HID. Each type has its pros and cons, so let's break them down. Halogen bulbs are the standard option and are the most affordable. They provide decent brightness and are easy to find at any auto parts store. Brands like Sylvania and Philips offer reliable halogen bulbs that are a direct replacement for your Impreza's original bulbs. If you're looking for a simple and cost-effective solution, halogen bulbs are a great choice. LED bulbs are a popular upgrade option due to their increased brightness, longer lifespan, and lower energy consumption. LED bulbs produce a brighter, whiter light that can significantly improve visibility at night. They also last much longer than halogen bulbs, meaning you won't have to replace them as often. Brands like Philips, Osram, and Auxbeam offer high-quality LED headlight bulbs that are compatible with the 2014 Impreza. When choosing LED bulbs, make sure they are designed for automotive use and have a proper beam pattern to avoid blinding other drivers. HID (High-Intensity Discharge) bulbs are the brightest option, producing a powerful, intense light. However, they are also the most expensive and require a special ballast to operate. HID bulbs are not a direct replacement for halogen bulbs and usually require a complete headlight conversion kit. While HID bulbs offer superior brightness, they may not be the best option for everyone due to the cost and complexity of installation. When selecting replacement bulbs, consider factors such as brightness, lifespan, color temperature, and price. Brightness is measured in lumens, with higher lumens indicating a brighter bulb. Lifespan is the estimated amount of time the bulb will last, usually measured in hours. Color temperature is measured in Kelvin (K), with lower temperatures (e.g., 3000K) producing a warmer, yellow light and higher temperatures (e.g., 6000K) producing a cooler, white or blue light. Also, check online reviews and forums to see what other 2014 Impreza owners recommend. Real-world feedback can be invaluable in making the right choice.

Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your Headlight Bulbs

Alright, let's get to the nitty-gritty. Replacing your headlight bulbs might sound intimidating, but trust me, it's a task you can totally handle yourself with a few simple tools and a little patience. First things first, safety! Before you even pop the hood, make sure your 2014 Impreza is parked on a level surface, the engine is turned off, and the parking brake is engaged. Let's avoid any rolling mishaps, okay? Next, gather your supplies. You'll need your new headlight bulbs (obviously!), a screwdriver (usually a Phillips head), and maybe some gloves to keep your hands clean. Now, open the hood and locate the headlight assembly. The headlight assembly is usually behind the headlight housing, and you'll need to access it from the engine bay. In most cases, there's a plastic or rubber cover that protects the bulb socket. Remove this cover by twisting it counterclockwise or unclipping it. With the cover off, you'll see the bulb socket. Disconnect the electrical connector from the bulb socket. Be gentle here; you don't want to damage the connector. There's usually a small clip or tab that you need to press or squeeze to release the connector. Once the connector is disconnected, remove the old bulb. Depending on the bulb type, it might be held in place by a wire clip or a retaining ring. Unclip or unfasten the retaining mechanism and carefully pull out the old bulb. Now, take your new headlight bulb and insert it into the socket. Make sure it's properly aligned and securely in place. If there's a retaining clip or ring, reattach it to hold the bulb in place. Reconnect the electrical connector to the bulb socket. Make sure it clicks into place, indicating a secure connection. Reinstall the protective cover over the bulb socket. Twist it clockwise or clip it back on to seal the headlight assembly. Before you button everything up, test the new headlight. Turn on your car's headlights to make sure the new bulb is working correctly. If it doesn't light up, double-check the connections and make sure the bulb is properly installed. Repeat the process for the other headlight if needed. Close the hood, and you're all done! You've successfully replaced your 2014 Subaru Impreza's headlight bulbs. Give yourself a pat on the back!

Tips for Upgrading Your Headlights

Okay, so you've replaced your bulbs, but what if you want more? Let's talk about tips for upgrading your headlights. Upgrading your 2014 Subaru Impreza's headlights can significantly improve visibility and safety, especially if you frequently drive at night or in poor weather conditions. One popular upgrade option is switching to LED headlight bulbs. LED bulbs offer several advantages over halogen bulbs, including increased brightness, longer lifespan, and lower energy consumption. They produce a brighter, whiter light that can make it easier to see the road ahead and spot potential hazards. When upgrading to LED bulbs, choose bulbs that are specifically designed for automotive use and have a proper beam pattern. A good beam pattern ensures that the light is focused on the road and doesn't blind other drivers. Look for LED bulbs with a color temperature of around 5000K to 6000K for a bright, white light that closely resembles daylight. Another upgrade option is installing a headlight relay harness. A headlight relay harness improves the electrical current flow to your headlights, resulting in brighter and more consistent light output. This is especially beneficial if your Impreza's headlights seem dim or flicker. The relay harness provides a direct connection from the battery to the headlights, bypassing the factory wiring and reducing voltage drop. If you're looking for a more comprehensive upgrade, consider replacing the entire headlight assembly with aftermarket projector headlights. Projector headlights use a lens to focus the light beam, resulting in a sharper and more defined beam pattern. This can significantly improve visibility and give your Impreza a more modern look. When choosing aftermarket headlights, make sure they are DOT-approved and comply with all applicable regulations. It's also a good idea to read reviews and compare different brands before making a purchase. No matter which upgrade option you choose, always follow the manufacturer's instructions and take the necessary safety precautions. If you're not comfortable performing the installation yourself, consider having a professional mechanic do it for you. Remember, proper headlight alignment is crucial for optimal visibility and safety. After upgrading your headlights, make sure they are properly aligned to avoid blinding other drivers. You can use a headlight aiming tool or have a professional align them for you.

Troubleshooting Common Headlight Issues

Even with the best bulbs, sometimes things go wrong. Let's troubleshoot common headlight issues. Even after replacing your headlight bulbs, you might encounter some common issues. Don't panic; most of these problems are easy to diagnose and fix. One common issue is a headlight that doesn't turn on at all. If one of your headlights isn't working, the first thing to check is the bulb itself. Even if the bulb is new, it could be defective. Try swapping the bulb with the one from the other headlight to see if the problem follows the bulb. If the bulb is not the issue, check the headlight fuse. The fuse for the headlights is usually located in the fuse box under the hood or inside the cabin. Consult your owner's manual to find the correct fuse and use a fuse tester to see if it's blown. If the fuse is blown, replace it with a new fuse of the same amperage. Another common issue is dim or flickering headlights. Dim headlights can be caused by a variety of factors, including a weak battery, corroded connections, or a faulty headlight switch. Start by checking the battery voltage to make sure it's within the normal range (around 12.6 volts). Clean the battery terminals and check the ground connections to ensure they are secure and free of corrosion. Flickering headlights can also be caused by a loose connection or a faulty headlight relay. Check all the connections in the headlight circuit and make sure they are tight and secure. If the flickering persists, try replacing the headlight relay. If your headlights are aiming too high or too low, you'll need to adjust them. Most headlights have adjustment screws that allow you to raise or lower the beam. Park your car on a level surface and use a screwdriver to adjust the screws until the headlights are properly aligned. You can find detailed instructions on how to align your headlights online or in your owner's manual. Sometimes, moisture can get inside the headlight housing, causing condensation or fogging. This can reduce the brightness of your headlights and potentially damage the bulbs. To remove the moisture, you can try removing the headlight assembly and using a hairdryer to dry it out. Make sure to reseal the headlight housing properly to prevent moisture from getting back in. If you've tried all of these troubleshooting steps and your headlights are still not working properly, it's best to consult a professional mechanic. They can diagnose the problem and recommend the appropriate repairs.

Maintaining Your Headlights for Longevity

Finally, let's ensure those headlights last! Maintaining your headlights is crucial for ensuring optimal visibility and extending their lifespan. Here are some simple tips to keep your 2014 Subaru Impreza's headlights in top condition. Regularly clean your headlight lenses to remove dirt, grime, and oxidation. Dirty headlight lenses can significantly reduce the brightness of your headlights, making it harder to see at night. Use a plastic cleaner and a microfiber cloth to gently clean the lenses. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals, as they can damage the plastic. Protect your headlight lenses from UV damage by applying a UV protectant. UV rays can cause the plastic lenses to become cloudy or yellow over time. Applying a UV protectant can help prevent this damage and keep your headlights looking clear. Regularly inspect your headlight bulbs for signs of wear or damage. If you notice that your headlights are dimming or flickering, it's time to replace the bulbs. Replacing the bulbs before they burn out completely can prevent further damage to the headlight assembly. Check the headlight alignment periodically to ensure that your headlights are properly aimed. Misaligned headlights can reduce visibility and blind other drivers. If you notice that your headlights are aiming too high or too low, adjust them accordingly. Avoid touching the glass part of the headlight bulbs when replacing them. The oils from your skin can damage the bulbs and shorten their lifespan. If you accidentally touch the glass, clean it with a clean cloth and rubbing alcohol. Park your car in a garage or covered area to protect your headlights from the elements. Exposure to sunlight, rain, and snow can damage the headlight lenses and bulbs. Parking your car in a garage or covered area can help prolong the lifespan of your headlights. By following these simple maintenance tips, you can keep your 2014 Subaru Impreza's headlights in top condition and ensure optimal visibility for years to come. Drive safe, guys!