Peter Banks As a car owner, it is important to know how to change a headlight, as it is crucial to have functioning headlights for safe driving, especially at night or in bad weather conditions. Although this specific tutorial is for 2014 Subaru Outback headlights, the process is similar for most cars. Follow these simple steps to replace your headlight easily and safely.
Tools Required
The tools required for this task are:
- New headlight bulb (Buy it from the Subaru Dealership or an auto parts shop)
- Screwdriver or pliers
- Clean cloth or gloves (for protection)
Safety Precautions
Before replacing the headlight bulb, you will need to follow some safety precautions.
- Make sure the engine is turned off
- Ensure that the headlight bulb has not been used for a while and in a rested condition
- Use clean gloves or a cloth to protect the hands from oil residue or dirt.
Instructions to Change the Headlight
Step 1: Open the Hood
Release the Subaru hood lock latch found at the bottom edge of the hood and lift the hood. The latch is located on the lower-left corner of the driver’s seat.
Step 2: Access the Bulb
Identify the headlight assembly located on the back of the headlight. You will see two bulbs; the bulb on the interior side is the high beam light, while the exterior one is the low beam light.
Step 3: Remove the Bulb
Press down on the metal clamp which holds the headlight bulb in place. Gently pull the clamp away then remove the bulb’s electrical connector. You can then remove the bulb by pulling it out of the headlight assembly. Be careful not to squeeze the bulb too tightly as it can crack or break.
Step 4: Install the New Bulb
Insert the new bulb into the headlight by carefully aligning the lugs on the base of the bulb to the slots in the headlight assembly. Push the bulb in gently to secure it in place. To plug in the electrical connector, gently push until it clicks into position.
Step 5: Test the Light
Turn on the headlights to test if the new bulb is working correctly. Repeat the same process for the other headlight if needed.
Troubleshooting Tips
Here are some potential troubleshooting tips to follow if you encounter issues with your new headlight bulb or the headlight still does not function correctly:
- Check for any broken wires or loose connections in the wiring harness
- Look for any visible damage in the headlight assembly or the wiring
- Check that the fuses are intact or if there is any corrosion.
FAQ
Q: How long will it take to replace a headlight bulb?
A: Replacing a headlight bulb on a 2014 Subaru Outback should take approximately 15-20 minutes.
Q: Should I replace both headlights, or can I only replace the faulty one?
A: It is recommended to replace both headlights at the same time, even if only one is faulty, as the other bulb could also fail soon.
Q: What kind of headlight bulb should I use for a 2014 Subaru Outback?
A: You should use an H11 halogen bulb for a 2014 Subaru Outback low-beam headlight and 9005 for high-beam headlights.
In conclusion, changing the headlight bulb on a 2014 Subaru Outback is a task that requires minimal effort and can be done easily at home. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a new headlight installed in no time! Remember to take safety precautions and check the troubleshooting tips if your newly installed headlight doesn’t work correctly.
