How to Replace 2018+ Subaru Crosstrek Taillight Bulbs Easily • Cars Simplified Quick Tips
Replacing the taillight bulb on a 2018, 2019, 2020, or 2021 Subaru Crosstrek is pretty straightforward, so let's get to it! This taillight assembly is held in place by two bolts/screws behind plastic covers that can be removed with a flathead screwdriver. I tried to use a plastic trim panel removal tool on it, and it did not budge. Remove the bolts with either a phillips screwdriver (not recommended) or a 10mm socket/ratchet. The housing will slide out towards the back end of the car, revealing the wiring harness. The taillight socket is roughly in the middle of the back of the housing, and rotates only slightly to unlock. The bulb is a small 5W5 bulb (same shape as a 194, 168, etc.) and came out easily for me, but be sure to wear rubber gloves in case a mistake is made and the glass is broken. Remove the old bulb and insert the new one carefully, and if it's an LED bulb, test the polarity out before putting everything back together.
To reassemble, put the taillight socket back into the housing, and slide the assembly back onto the pins, with a gentle final push to make sure it is seated on the metal peg. If it is lined up properly, put the bolts back into place (not too tight, you may crack the lens housing) and cover them with the plastic circles that snap into place.
Nicely done!
This is the LASFIT bulb pair that was used in this video:
We have used their white variant as well in trunk spaces and plate light bulbs, and have had good results, and have also used their fog light and reverse light offerings; also a good design!
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