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Forward Lighting
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Exterior Lighting
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Interior Lighting
2018 Subaru Outback Headlight Bulb Size
Celebrating fifty years of Subaru in the U.S. market, the 2018 Outback arrived with a 50th Anniversary Edition and expanded standard safety across the lineup, and the 2018 Subaru Outback headlight bulb size remains H11 for the low beams, 9005 for the high beams, and H16 for the fog lights. EyeSight became standard on most trims for 2018, reinforcing Subaru's commitment to active safety. Halogen headlights come on the base 2.5i, while Premium, Limited, and Touring trims offer factory LED units. Swapping in 2018 Subaru Outback LED headlights gives halogen-equipped models the same modern white output that higher trims enjoy from the factory.
The 50th Anniversary Edition added unique badging and interior accents, but the headlight configuration remained unchanged from the rest of the fifth-generation range. Whether you drive the commemorative package or a standard trim, brighter headlights pair naturally with the EyeSight system to extend your usable field of vision at night. HID Nation ships every upgrade kit free with a lifetime warranty included.
LED and HID Kits for the 2018 Subaru Outback
LED conversion kits for the 2018 Outback replace the factory H11 halogen with a direct-fit LED bulb that locks into the same socket and connector. The output jumps from the dim yellow halogen to a bright 6000K white, and because LED bulbs produce less heat, the headlight housing and wiring run cooler than before. Installation takes about 20 minutes for both sides with no tools beyond what most people already own.
HID xenon kits are the alternative for owners who prioritize maximum beam distance. The 2018 Outback's engine bay offers enough room to mount a slim ballast near each headlight, and the xenon arc produces a focused beam that throws light further than LED at the same power draw. The trade-off is a brief warm-up period and a slightly longer installation.
All HID Nation kits come with free shipping and a lifetime warranty. If a component ever fails, we replace it at no cost to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 2018 Subaru Outback headlight bulb size?
The 2018 Subaru Outback headlight bulb size is H11 for the low beams, 9005 for the high beams, and H16 for the fog lights. The base 2.5i comes with halogen headlights, while Premium, Limited, and Touring trims may include factory LED low beams. Both the 2.5i and 3.6R engines use the same bulb sizes.
Does the 2018 Outback 50th Anniversary Edition use different headlight bulbs?
No. The 2018 Subaru Outback 50th Anniversary Edition uses the same H11 low beam, 9005 high beam, and H16 fog light bulbs as every other 2018 Outback trim. The anniversary package added cosmetic and interior upgrades but did not change the headlight housing or bulb configuration. Any LED or HID kit designed for the 2018 Outback will fit the commemorative model.
Will LED headlights work with EyeSight on the 2018 Outback?
Yes. The EyeSight system on the 2018 Subaru Outback operates through stereo cameras mounted near the rearview mirror, completely independent of the headlight bulb type. Replacing the halogen H11 with an LED or HID bulb does not interfere with adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, or lane departure warning. Many owners upgrade specifically because brighter headlights complement the safety features they are already relying on.
How do I replace the low beam headlight on a 2018 Subaru Outback?
Open the hood and locate the back of the headlight assembly. Disconnect the wiring harness from the H11 bulb by pressing the release tab. Twist the bulb retainer counterclockwise and pull the old bulb out. Insert the LED or halogen replacement, lock the retainer clockwise, and reconnect the harness. Repeat on the passenger side. The entire process takes about 20 minutes with no special tools required.
Can I upgrade the fog lights and headlights at the same time?
Absolutely. The 2018 Outback uses H16 fog light bulbs and H11 headlight bulbs, and both can be upgraded to LED in a single session. Doing both at once ensures a consistent white color temperature across all front lighting positions, which looks far better than mixing LED headlights with halogen fog lights. HID Nation sells both H11 and H16 LED kits, so you can order everything in one go.