Parts for your 1999 Subaru Forester-Tail lights

1999 Subaru Forester tail-lights

Tail-lights are absolutely fitted to the 1999 Subaru Forester (SF series). This is confirmed by the Subaru Forester Owner’s Manual for the era (lighting section), Subaru’s genuine parts catalogue for MY1999 SF models which lists rear combination lamp assemblies, and road-legality requirements such as Australian Design Rule 13/00 (installation of lighting) and New Zealand’s Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Lighting 2004, both of which require rear position lamps on passenger vehicles. So, yes—this Forester runs conventional rear combination lamps with tail, stop, indicator and reverse functions.

On a 1999 Forester, the tail-lights serve a simple purpose: make the vehicle clearly visible from behind at night and in poor weather, and ramp up in brightness when braking so following drivers get the message. They’re integrated into the rear combination assembly and typically use a dual‑filament globe for stop/tail. When they’re dull, pinkish, intermittently out, or one side is dead, visibility drops and it’s a quick path to a defect notice or failed WOF/roadworthy.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to check the tail-lights every few months—or before a big trip. Make sure both sides glow evenly with the parkers on, then press the brake (or ask a mate) to confirm the brighter stop function works. If a globe’s out, the job’s straightforward: open the tailgate, remove the trim/access cover inside the quarter panel, twist the bulb holder anti‑clockwise, swap the globe, and refit. Most AU/NZ SF Foresters run a dual‑filament 21/5W globe (Bay15d) for stop/tail, but always match what’s fitted or follow the Owner’s Manual. Avoid touching halogen glass with bare fingers, and if upgrading to LED, choose CANbus‑friendly units and ensure the light output and colour comply with ADR/NZ rules.

Keep an eye on the lens and seals. Hairline cracks or a tired gasket can let moisture in, fogging the lens and corroding the contacts. If you see condensation, pull the bulb holder, dry the assembly gently, clean the contacts, and renew the seal. A dab of dielectric grease on the socket terminals helps fend off corrosion. Also check the earth (ground) point for the lamp, a weak earth can make the tail dim and the indicator misbehave. If the lens is badly crazed or the reflector’s dull, a new rear combination lamp assembly is the tidy fix and keeps the old Forester looking sharp and road‑legal.

• Service tip: test lights at dusk, it’s easier to spot a weak globe.
• Compliance: red tail, brighter red stop, amber indicator—meet ADR/NZ colour rules.
• Tools: Phillips screwdriver, gloves, clean rag, correct replacement globe.

Popular questions about 1999 Subaru Forester tail-lights

What globe type does the 1999 Forester use for the tail/stop light?
Most AU/NZ SF‑series Foresters use a dual‑filament 21/5W Bay15d globe for the combined stop/tail function. Because trims and markets vary, it’s best to confirm by checking the existing globe base or the Owner’s Manual. If switching to LED, match the base type and ensure legal colour and brightness.

How does someone replace a tail-light globe on this model?
Open the tailgate, remove the small interior access cover behind the lamp, twist the bulb holder anti‑clockwise, and pull it out. Swap the globe (avoid touching the glass), test the light, then refit the holder and cover. If the whole lamp needs removal, undo the mounting screws and gently ease the assembly straight back to avoid breaking the locating pins.

Why is there condensation in the tail-light and is it a fail?
Light misting can happen with temperature changes, but persistent moisture points to a cracked lens or a perished seal. That can corrode contacts and dim the light—and can fail a WOF/roadworthy. Dry the unit, clean contacts, and replace the seal or the lamp if the lens or reflector is damaged.