Parts for your 2009 Subaru Exiga-Exterior bulbs

2009 Subaru Exiga exterior bulbs: what they do and how to look after them

Exterior bulbs are absolutely used on the 2009 Subaru Exiga, and they’re central to safe, legal driving. This is supported by Subaru’s own technical literature for the YA-series Exiga (Owner’s Manual and Electrical/Lighting sections of the Service Manual), which specify replaceable filament bulbs for headlamps and signal lamps. It also aligns with ADR 13/00 lighting requirements in Australia and equivalent NZ WOF lighting standards, both of which the Exiga meets using conventional exterior bulbs.

On the 2009 Exiga, the exterior bulbs handle everything from seeing the road to letting others know what the driver’s up to—headlights for night vision, indicators for turns and lane changes, brake lights to warn following traffic, and number plate and reverse lamps for visibility. Most AU/NZ-delivered cars of this year use halogen headlamps, some markets offered higher-spec lighting, but the majority stick with serviceable bulb types that can be replaced at home.

During routine servicing, it’s smart to treat exterior bulbs as consumables. If one blows, the other on the same axle is often not far behind, so replacing in pairs helps keep light output even. Under the bonnet, access the headlamp dust covers, and avoid touching the glass of new halogen bulbs—skin oils can shorten their life. After fitting, check beam aim and make sure the dust covers seal properly to keep moisture out. A quick look over connectors for heat discolouration or corrosion, plus a dab of dielectric grease on exposed terminals, goes a long way.

It’s also worth checking lenses and housings. Cloudy headlamp lenses can dull output, a reputable restoration kit can restore clarity. If there’s condensation inside a lamp, inspect seals and vents—trapped moisture will kill bulbs early. And don’t forget the simple stuff: confirm the right fuse if a whole circuit is dead, and test after every replacement.

• Common 2009 Exiga bulb locations and typical types (verify in the Owner’s Manual): low beam (often H11), high beam (often 9005/HB3), front fog (where fitted), front and rear indicators, parkers/position (W5W/T10), stop/tail (7443), reverse (T16), and number plate (W5W).

Stick with quality, ADR/NZ-compliant bulbs, keep spares in the glovebox, and the Exiga will stay bright, visible, and roadworthy.

Popular questions about 2009 Subaru Exiga exterior bulbs

What headlight bulb types does a 2009 Subaru Exiga use?
Many 2009 Exiga variants use H11 for low beam and 9005 (HB3) for high beam, with W5W/T10 parkers. Trims can vary by market, so always confirm in the Owner’s Manual or on the back of the lamp housing before buying. If a previous owner modified the lights, match what’s currently fitted.

Can LED bulbs replace the factory halogens legally in Australia or NZ?
Retrofit LED bulbs in housings designed for halogen can be non-compliant and may fail rego or WOF checks. If upgrading, use components specifically approved for road use in your jurisdiction, and ensure beam pattern and aim remain correct. Keeping to the OEM-specified bulb type is the safest path for legality and performance.

How often should exterior bulbs be replaced on an Exiga?
There’s no fixed interval—replace on failure or if output is noticeably weak or discoloured. As a rule of thumb, check all exterior lights at each service or every few months. Replace bulbs in pairs on the same function (e.g., both low beams) to keep brightness and colour matched.