Headlights problems of the 2012 Subaru Outback

Ten problems related to headlights have been reported for the 2012 Subaru Outback. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2012 Subaru Outback based on all problems reported for the 2012 Outback.

1 Headlights problem

Failure Date: 05/15/2020

Tl the contact owns a 2012 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that the bulbs in the headlamps needed to be replaced quite frequently. The vehicle was taken to miller Subaru (1592 NJ-38, lumberton, NJ 08048) however, the contact was unsure if a diagnostic test was performed. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 175,000.

2 Headlights problem

Failure Date: 07/01/2017

Both low beam headlights went out simultaneously while driving on a dark rural road. We were told the recall did not include our auto which was made the same year as other recalled automobiles of the same make and model. However it appears the problem was not corrected properly.

3 Headlights problem

Failure Date: 03/10/2017

The low beam headlights both burned out. Subaru said the issue only affected some of the Outbacks but obviously it affects mine and was not covered.

4 Headlights problem

Failure Date: 02/25/2017

In less than a year of ownership, we've had to replace four different directional/running/head lights. This is excessive, expensive, and awkward to do. (the front headlights require removal of the front tires to reach the access panel!) I know there is a class action lawsuit for this exact issue with earlier year's of Outbacks.

5 Headlights problem

Failure Date: 01/20/2017

High and low beam bulbs constantly burning out. I have had this car for 4 years and I replace a light build in the headlamps every 4-6 months. Usually when one goes out another will follow. Example I replaced high beam then 4 days later the low beam. Great vehicle but I have replaced more bulbs for the headlights of this car than the last 4 past owned vehicles combined. Bulbs usually burn out when going from low to high or vice versus. Dealer claims everyone with same model spanning different years have the same problem. They claim it does not matter brand of bulb. I purchased expensive bulbs with a 1 yr warranty free replacement if they burn out knowing I will only get a few months out of them. I will still have the hassle of replacing them but atleast I'm done buying them. Subaru should recall these vehicles and fix this problem. With all the airbag recalls I doubt they really care about headlights. Nhtsa please help us dealers should fix these vehicles before reselling these faulty vehicles!'.

6 Headlights problem

Failure Date: 12/30/2016

My headlights on my Outback are constantly going out. I purchased this vehicle in October of 2015 and I have replaced my headlights 9 times. I live in alaska with very little day light and it is important to always have my headlights on, regardless of where I live. I have been fortunate enough to not have been pulled over for this yet but I can see it happening in the near future. Please help.

7 Headlights problem

Failure Date: 11/09/2016

The low beam headlamps are constantly burning out on my 2012 Subaru Outback. I have replaced the bulbs several times in the past two years, approximately every 3-6 months or 3,000-6,000 miles. One side burns out right after the other. I cannot say if the headlight bulbs burn out while driving or stationary; I drive mostly in daylight then notice the outage at night. Replacing the bulb involves removing the tire and having a mechanic or dealership perform the work. What should be an infrequent simple task is getting very expensive! I am primarily concerned about safety as the bulbs could easily both burn out while driving at night.

8 Headlights problem

Failure Date: 01/02/2016

In less than 4 years, I have had to replace a headlight 4 times. On the 4 cars I owned/leased prior to this vehicle, I have never had to replace a headlight ever.

9 Headlights problem

Failure Date: 10/01/2012

The contact owns a 2012 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that the low beam headlight projector bulb was not shielded. When the light was illuminated, the beam appeared to be vertical which caused the driver¿s vision to be obscured. The vehicle was taken to the dealer for diagnosis. They were unable to so and the contact was driving around with duct tape over the light to prevent glare. The manufacturer was contacted and they offered no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 4,000. The current mileage was approximately 6,000.

10 Headlights problem

Failure Date: 02/01/2012

The headlights of my Outback have burned out at least 4 times. The dealer claims there is no issue with the electrical system.


Other Exterior Lighting related problems of the 2012 Subaru Outback


Safety Ratings of Outback Cars
Fuel Economy of Outback Vehicles
Outback Service Bulletins
Outback Safety Recalls
Outback Defect Investigations