Subaru is a popular car produced by the Japanese. In this article, I will discuss Subaru’s automatic headlight problems based on my experience and knowledge.
Common Subaru Automatic Headlight Problems
#1. Subaru Automatic Headlight Sensor Not Working
What Is It?
Subaru automatic headlight problems can arise due to sensor malfunctions. These issues can lead to headlights not turning on or off when necessary, causing safety concerns. Subaru owners need to be aware of these sensor malfunctions and get them fixed up immediately.
What Causes It?
- Loose electrical connection in wiring.
- Faulty light sensor calibration.
How to fix?
Step 1: Check for loose electrical connections in the wiring.
- Turn off the engine and locate the fuse box, usually found under the dashboard or in the engine compartment.
- Remove the cover of the fuse box and visually inspect the wiring connected to the automatic headlights.
- Gently wiggle the wiring harness and connectors to check for any loose connections.
- If you find any loose connections, securely reconnect them, ensuring they are properly seated.
- Test the automatic headlights to see if the issue is resolved. If not, proceed to the next step.
Step 2: Check and calibrate the light sensor.
- Locate the light sensor, which is usually located on the dashboard near the windshield or on the rearview mirror.
- Inspect the light sensor for any physical damage or obstructions. Clean the sensor if necessary using a soft cloth.
- Check if the sensor is properly calibrated by parking the vehicle in an area with varying light levels, such as under a streetlight or in a well-lit parking lot.
- Observe if the automatic headlights adjust accordingly as the light conditions change. If not, the sensor may need to be recalibrated.
- Refer to the vehicle’s owner manual or contact a Subaru dealership for instructions on how to calibrate the light sensor. This process may involve specific button sequences or accessing the vehicle’s settings.
- Follow the calibration instructions carefully to ensure accurate sensor readings.
- After calibration, test the automatic headlights again to see if the problem is resolved. If not, further diagnosis or professional assistance may be required.
If these steps do not resolve the issue, it may be necessary to consult a professional mechanic or Subaru dealership for further diagnosis and repair.
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#2. Subaru Automatic Headlight Software Glitches
What Is It?
Subaru automatic headlight problems can arise due to software glitches, affecting their functionality. These glitches may cause the headlights to flicker, fail to turn on or off properly, or exhibit erratic behavior. These kinds of issues are more on the technical side.
What Causes It?
- Faulty sensor or wiring.
- Inadequate software calibration or programming.
How to fix?
Step 1: Identifying the Faulty Sensor or Wiring
- Start by inspecting the automatic headlight system. Look for any visible signs of damage to the sensors or wiring.
- If you notice any physical damage, such as frayed wires or loose connections, repair or replace the affected parts.
- If the wiring and sensors seem intact, you may need to use a diagnostic tool to check for any error codes related to the automatic headlight system.
- Connect the diagnostic tool to the vehicle’s OBD-II port and scan for any error codes. Note down any codes related to the automatic headlight system.
Step 2: Fixing the Faulty Sensor or Wiring
- Based on the error codes obtained from the diagnostic tool, consult the Subaru repair manual or seek professional assistance to locate the specific sensor or wiring component causing the glitch.
- If it is a faulty sensor, carefully disconnect the sensor from its connector and replace it with a new one. Ensure the new sensor is compatible with your Subaru model.
- If the issue lies with the wiring, carefully trace the wiring harness to locate any damaged sections. Repair or replace the damaged wiring using appropriate connectors and insulation materials.
Step 3: Addressing Inadequate Software Calibration or Programming
- Check for any available software updates or recalls related to the automatic headlight system in your Subaru model. Visit the manufacturer’s website or contact your local Subaru dealership to obtain the necessary updates.
- If there are software updates available, follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer to update the software in your vehicle’s control module. This may involve using a computer or a specialized diagnostic tool.
- In case there are no official software updates available, you may need to consult a Subaru dealership or a professional automotive technician who specializes in Subaru vehicles. They may be able to reprogram or recalibrate the software to resolve the glitch.
If the glitches persist even after following these steps, it is recommended to consult a professional Subaru technician or contact Subaru customer support for further assistance.
#3. Subaru Automatic Headlight High Beam Assist Malfunction
What Is It?
Subaru automatic headlight problems can include a malfunction in high beam assist, which can be a frustrating issue for drivers. This malfunction may result in the high beams not automatically adjusting to oncoming traffic, causing potential safety hazards.
What Causes It?
- Faulty sensor or camera system.
- Electrical wiring or connection issues.
How to fix?
Step 1: Checking the Sensor or Camera System
- Start by inspecting the sensor or camera system responsible for high beam assist in your Subaru’s automatic headlights. The location of the sensor or camera may vary depending on the model and year of your vehicle. Typically, it is located on or near the windshield, around the rearview mirror area.
- Check for any visible damage to the sensor or camera. Look for cracks, dirt, or other obstructions that may be affecting its functionality. Clean the sensor or camera using a soft cloth if necessary.
- If any error codes related to the sensor or camera system appear, it may indicate a faulty component. In such cases, it is advisable to consult a professional Subaru technician or contact Subaru customer support for further assistance.
Step 2: Checking Electrical Wiring or Connection Issues
- Start by checking the fuse box for any blown fuses related to the headlights or high beam assist function. Replace any blown fuses with the appropriate ones.
- Follow the wiring harness from the sensor or camera system and check for any visible damage, loose connections, or corrosion. Repair or replace any damaged wiring or connections.
- It is recommended to use a multimeter to check the continuity and voltage of the electrical connections related to the high beam assist system.
- If all wiring and connections appear to be intact and functioning properly, it is advisable to perform a reset of the high beam assist system. This can be done by disconnecting the battery for a few minutes and then reconnecting it.
- After performing the reset, test the high beam assist system to see if the problem persists. If the issue still exists, it is recommended to seek professional assistance from a Subaru technician who can further diagnose and resolve the problem.
Headlight Problems in other Subaru Models:
- Subaru Automatic Headlight Problems
- Subaru Crosstrek headlight Problems
- Subaru Headlight Problems
- 2015 Subaru Forester Headlight Problems
- Subaru Impreza Headlight Problems
#4. Subaru Automatic Headlights Always On
What Is It?
Subaru automatic headlight problems can be frustrating for owners as they may experience the always-on issue. This glitch causes the headlights to remain illuminated even when the car is turned off, draining the battery.
What Causes It?
- Faulty light sensor or wiring.
- Malfunctioning headlight relay switch.
How to fix?
Step 1: Faulty Light Sensor or Wiring
- Start by inspecting the light sensor located on your vehicle’s dashboard or near the windshield. Check for any visible damages, dirt, or obstructions that may be affecting its functionality. Clean the sensor if necessary.
- If the sensor appears to be in good condition, proceed to check the wiring connected to the sensor. Look for any loose connections, frayed wires, or signs of damage. Make sure all connections are secure and intact.
- If you notice any issues with the sensor or wiring, repair or replace them accordingly. This may involve soldering or replacing damaged wires, connectors, or the sensor itself.
- After repairing or replacing the faulty sensor or wiring, test the automatic headlights to see if the “always on” problem is resolved. If the issue persists, proceed to the next step.
Step 2: Malfunctioning Headlight Relay Switch
- Locate the headlight relay switch, typically located in the fuse box or relay panel under the hood of your Subaru. Consult your vehicle’s manual if you’re unsure about its exact location.
- Inspect the relay switch for any visible signs of damage, such as burnt or melted components. If you notice any issues, replace the relay switch with a new one.
- If the relay switch appears to be in good condition, you can further troubleshoot it using a multimeter. Set the multimeter to the continuity or resistance mode.
- Remove the relay switch from its socket and identify the terminals for the control coil. Touch the multimeter probes to these terminals and check for continuity or resistance within the specified range (refer to your vehicle’s manual for the correct values).
- If the multimeter readings indicate an open circuit or resistance outside the specified range, the relay switch is likely faulty and needs replacement.
- Install the new relay switch into its socket and ensure it is securely seated. Test the automatic headlights to verify if the “always on” problem is resolved.
#5. Subaru Automatic Headlights Battery Voltage Problems
What Is It?
Subaru automatic headlight problems often arise due to battery voltage issues. These problems can result in dim or flickering headlights, affecting visibility and safety.
What Causes It?
- Faulty wiring connection or insulation.
- Malfunctioning headlight control module.
How to fix?
Step 1: Check for Faulty Wiring Connection or Insulation
- Turn off the engine and park the Subaru in a safe location.
- Open the hood and locate the wiring connection for the automatic headlights. This connection is usually found near the headlight assembly or in the engine bay.
- Inspect the wiring connection for any loose or disconnected wires. Ensure that all connections are properly secured.
- Look for any signs of damage or frayed insulation on the wires. If you notice any exposed wires or damaged insulation, it may be causing a short circuit or voltage drop.
- If you find any faulty wiring connections or damaged insulation, carefully repair or replace the affected wiring. Ensure that all connections are properly insulated to prevent future issues.
Step 2: Check for a Malfunctioning Headlight Control Module
- Locate the headlight control module in your Subaru. It is typically found in the engine bay, near the fuse box or other electrical components.
- Inspect the control module for any visible damage or signs of malfunction, such as burnt components or loose connections.
- Use a multimeter to check the voltage output from the control module. Refer to the Subaru service manual or wiring diagram to identify the correct voltage range for the headlights.
- If the voltage output from the control module is outside the specified range or inconsistent, it may indicate a malfunctioning module.
- Replace the headlight control module if it is determined to be faulty. Ensure that the replacement module is compatible with your Subaru model.
#6. Subaru Automatic Headlights Switch Problems
What Is It?
Subaru automatic headlight problems can occur due to faulty switches, resulting in inconsistent operation. These problems may include headlights failing to turn on or off at the appropriate times, or flickering while driving.
What Causes It?
- Faulty headlight switch electrical connection.
- Malfunctioning auto light sensor.
How to fix?
Step 1: Faulty headlight switch electrical connection
- Locate the headlight switch in your Subaru. It is typically located on the dashboard, near the steering wheel.
- Check the electrical connections of the headlight switch. Ensure that they are securely connected and there are no loose or disconnected wires.
- If you notice any loose or disconnected wires, reconnect them properly.
- Test the headlight switch to see if the issue is resolved. Turn the switch on and off to check if the headlights respond accordingly.
Step 2: Malfunctioning auto light sensor
- Locate the auto light sensor in your Subaru. It is usually located on the dashboard, near the windshield or on the rearview mirror.
- Inspect the auto light sensor for any physical damage or debris that may be obstructing its proper functioning.
- Clean the sensor using a soft cloth or a mild cleaning solution if necessary.
- Check the wiring connections of the auto light sensor. Ensure that they are securely connected and there are no loose or disconnected wires.
- If you notice any loose or disconnected wires, reconnect them properly.
- Test the auto light sensor by covering it temporarily with a piece of cloth or your hand. If the headlights turn on, it indicates that the sensor is functioning properly.
- If the auto light sensor is still malfunctioning, it may need to be replaced. Consult a professional mechanic or Subaru dealership for further assistance.
#7. Subaru Automatic Headlights Fuse Problems
What Is It?
Subaru automatic headlight problems can often be traced back to fuse issues. These problems arise when the fuses responsible for controlling the automatic headlights become faulty or blow out.
What Causes It?
- Faulty wiring or electrical connections.
- Burned out or damaged bulb.
How to fix?
Solution For Faulty wiring or electrical connections –
- Start by checking the fuse box located in the engine compartment or under the dashboard. Refer to your vehicle’s manual for the exact location.
- Locate the fuse related to the headlights. It is usually labeled as “Headlight” or “Headlamp” on the fuse box cover or in the manual.
- Carefully remove the fuse using a fuse puller or a pair of needle-nose pliers.
- Inspect the fuse for any signs of damage, such as a broken filament or a discolored appearance. If the fuse appears to be blown, proceed to the next step.
- Replace the blown fuse with a new one of the same amperage rating. The amperage rating should be indicated on the fuse itself or in the manual.
- Ensure that the fuse is securely seated in the fuse box.
- If the new fuse blows immediately or soon after replacement, there may be a short circuit in the wiring. In this case, it is recommended to consult a professional mechanic or an authorized Subaru service center for further diagnosis and repair.
Solution For Burned out or damaged bulb –
- Turn off the ignition and open the hood of your Subaru.
- Locate the headlight assembly that is not functioning properly.
- Depending on the specific Subaru model, you may need to remove a cover or trim piece to access the headlight bulb. Again, refer to the vehicle’s manual for precise instructions.
- Once you have access to the bulb, carefully disconnect the electrical connector by pressing the release tab or twisting it counterclockwise.
- Remove the bulb by either twisting it counterclockwise or pulling it straight out, depending on the bulb type.
- Inspect the bulb for any signs of damage, such as a broken filament or a discolored appearance. If the bulb is visibly damaged or burned out, it needs to be replaced.
- Install a new bulb of the correct type and wattage into the headlight assembly. Ensure that it is securely seated.
- Reconnect the electrical connector to the new bulb.
- Repeat the process for any other bulbs that may be faulty.
- Test the headlights by turning them on to ensure they are functioning properly.
Headlight Problems in Spec-d Tunning Models:
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I turn off the automatic feature and control the headlights manually?
Yes, most Subaru models allow you to switch between automatic and manual control. There is usually a switch or button on the dashboard to disable the automatic function.
Can I adjust the sensitivity of the automatic headlights?
Unfortunately, the sensitivity of Subaru automatic headlights is not adjustable. It is set by the manufacturer to ensure optimal performance in various lighting conditions.
Are Subaru automatic headlights energy-efficient?
Yes, Subaru automatic headlights are designed to be energy-efficient. They are equipped with modern LED or HID bulbs that consume less power compared to traditional halogen bulbs, helping to extend the vehicle’s battery life.
