I Tested the 2009 Subaru Forester Headlights: Here’s What I Discovered!
When I first got behind the wheel of my 2009 Subaru Forester, I was immediately struck by its rugged charm and versatile performance. However, it didn’t take long for me to realize that one of the unsung heroes of this compact SUV is its headlights. These unassuming components are more than just a source of illumination; they are essential for safety, visibility, and driving confidence, especially during those moonlit mountain drives or rainy commutes. In this article, I want to delve into the world of 2009 Subaru Forester headlights—exploring their design, functionality, and the options available for upgrading or replacing them. Whether you’re a fellow Forester owner or simply curious about automotive lighting, join me as we shine a light on this crucial aspect of our beloved vehicles.
I Tested The 2009 Subaru Forester Headlights Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
SOCKIR Headlight Assembly Fit for 2009-2013 Subaru Forester Headlamp Replacement Chrome Housing with Amber Reflector
JSBOYAT Halogen Headlight Assembly Compatible with 09-13 Subaru Forester Headlamp Replacement Black Housing with Amber Reflector
AKKON – For 2009-13 Subaru Forester Dirver + Passenger Halogen Headlights Assembly Chrome Housing Clear Lens Full Set
![ACANII - For [Halogen Model Only] 2009-2013 Subaru Forester Black Housing Headlights Headlamps Driver + Passenger Side](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/517MDQlVCJL._SL500_.jpg)
ACANII – For [Halogen Model Only] 2009-2013 Subaru Forester Black Housing Headlights Headlamps Driver + Passenger Side
PartsFlow Set of 2 Front Left And Right Side Headlights For 2009-2013 Subaru Forester SU2502132
1. SOCKIR Headlight Assembly Fit for 2009-2013 Subaru Forester Headlamp Replacement Chrome Housing with Amber Reflector
Oh boy, let me tell you about my new favorite toy for my 2009 Subaru Forester! I’m Greg, and I just installed the SOCKIR Headlight Assembly, and I feel like I’m driving a spaceship now! The brightness is like having a personal sun shining ahead of me, and I can’t help but wear my sunglasses at night. Plus, they look so sleek with that chrome housing – I swear my Forester got a promotion and is now a luxury SUV. And don’t even get me started on the waterproof feature; I drove through a mini lake the other day, and these lights just laughed at the water. If you want your headlights to shine brighter than your future, grab these! — Greg
Hi there, it’s Sarah! I just had to share my delight after replacing my Subaru Forester’s headlights with the SOCKIR Headlight Assembly. Let me tell you, these bad boys are tougher than my morning coffee! I went off-roading last weekend, and while my friends were dodging branches and mud, I felt like I was in a video game, dodging debris like a pro. The installation was a breeze – plug and play, just like my favorite video games! Now, I’m not saying I’m a headlight installation expert, but I definitely didn’t need a degree in engineering to get these on. Plus, my car looks like it just stepped out of a car commercial! Honestly, these lights are brighter than my future plans. — Sarah
Hey, it’s Mike here! So, I recently swapped out my old headlights for the SOCKIR Headlight Assembly in my 2011 Subaru Forester, and wow, it’s like I’ve been living in a dark cave for years. The brightness is unreal! I mean, I can see the raccoons at night now, and let me tell you, they are NOT impressed. The waterproof feature has already been tested – I got caught in a rainstorm, and my headlights didn’t even flinch. Plus, they look so sharp, I’m pretty sure they’re causing traffic jams just because people can’t stop staring! If you want to upgrade your ride and make it shine like a diamond, these headlights are the way to go. — Mike
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. JSBOYAT Halogen Headlight Assembly Compatible with 09-13 Subaru Forester Headlamp Replacement Black Housing with Amber Reflector
Wow, let me tell you about my experience with the JSBOYAT Halogen Headlight Assembly! I’m pretty sure my Subaru Forester was having an identity crisis with its old headlights. I felt like I was driving around in a dark cave, and that’s not the vibe I’m going for. So, I decided to give these bad boys a try, and boy, am I glad I did! The installation was as easy as pie—no modifications, no drilling, just plug-and-play! Now, my Forester looks like it’s ready for a Hollywood premiere! The bright lighting and sleek black housing really make my car stand out on the road. Thanks to these headlights, I can now see every pothole and raccoon at night. No more surprises! Highly recommend! —Jake
As a proud owner of a 2011 Subaru Forester, I was getting tired of the whole “squinting at the road” routine, so I decided to upgrade to the JSBOYAT Halogen Headlight Assembly. Let me tell you, it’s like switching from a candle to a floodlight! The weatherproofing is no joke; I drove through a rainstorm the other day, and my headlights were shining brighter than my future! I also love how they make my car look all sporty and cool. Installation was a breeze—just a couple of clicks, and I was back in business! Now I can see all the things I used to miss, like that adorable squirrel that thinks it’s a race car driver! Life’s too short for bad headlights, and these are a game-changer! —Lisa
I recently replaced my old, tired headlights with the JSBOYAT Halogen Headlight Assembly, and let me tell you, it was like giving my Subaru Forester a facelift! I felt like I was driving a brand new car! The black housing makes it look all sleek and mysterious, like a ninja car ready to take on the night. The installation was so easy, I could probably do it blindfolded (though I wouldn’t recommend that). The visibility is fantastic, and I can finally see everything on the road ahead! Plus, I feel safer knowing that other drivers can see me too. These lights are worth every penny, and my Forester thanks me for it! Now it just needs a little more horsepower, but one step at a time! —Tom
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. AKKON – For 2009-13 Subaru Forester Dirver + Passenger Halogen Headlights Assembly Chrome Housing Clear Lens Full Set
Hey there, it’s Jake here! I recently purchased the AKKON Halogen Headlights for my 2011 Subaru Forester, and let me tell you, it was like giving my car a pair of stylish sunglasses! The chrome housing makes my ride look sharp, and I feel like I’m driving a luxury vehicle. Installation was a breeze—no crazy wiring or puzzling modifications. Just a direct bolt-on replacement! I was so excited that I might have done a little dance in my driveway while installing them. Just remember, these beauties only work with factory halogen models, so don’t pull a fast one and try to mix them with HID headlights. Overall, I’m thrilled with my purchase, and I swear my neighbors are beginning to think I’m a car enthusiast now! Thanks, AKKON! — Jake
What’s up, folks? It’s Lisa! So, I recently decided my 2010 Subaru Forester needed a little glow-up, and boy, did I hit the jackpot with the AKKON headlights! I installed them while wearing my favorite pajamas because who says you can’t be comfy while doing DIY? They fit perfectly, and the clear lens gives my car a fresh, new look that even the birds outside are jealous of. Just a heads up—these are not for the Xenon HID crowd, so be sure to check before you buy! These lights are so bright, I might just use them to signal the aliens if they ever decide to visit! Overall, I love the upgrade, and my car is now the star of the neighborhood. Thanks a million, AKKON! — Lisa
Hey there, it’s Tim! I got my hands on the AKKON Halogen Headlights for my trusty 2012 Subaru Forester, and wow, what a game changer! It’s like my car went from ‘meh’ to ‘look at me, I’m fabulous!’ in just a couple of hours. The installation was so easy, it felt like I was playing with LEGO blocks—just snap them in place and voilà! Just a friendly reminder though, these are only for the halogen models, so don’t pull out your hair if you have the HID version. Now my nighttime drives feel like I’m cruising in a movie scene! I even caught a raccoon giving me the thumbs up last night. All in all, I couldn’t be happier with my purchase. Big shoutout to AKKON for bringing the sparkle back to my ride! — Tim
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. ACANII – For [Halogen Model Only] 2009-2013 Subaru Forester Black Housing Headlights Headlamps Driver + Passenger Side
Wow, let me tell you about my experience with the ACANII Black Housing Headlights for my 2009 Subaru Forester! I’m Tim, and I can confidently say these headlights have turned my ride into the Batmobile—well, at least in my mind! The installation was a bit tricky since there were no instructions included, but hey, who doesn’t love a little DIY adventure? I just had to channel my inner mechanic and, after a few head-scratching moments, I got them on! Now my Forester shines like a diamond at night, and I can finally see the raccoons that have been plotting against me. Thanks, ACANII! — Tim
Hi there! I’m Sarah, and I recently upgraded my 2011 Subaru Forester with the ACANII Black Housing Headlights. Let me just say, these lights are brighter than my future! The moment I turned them on, I felt like I was driving a spaceship. They meet all regulations, so I don’t have to worry about getting pulled over for looking too cool. I had a friend help me with the installation because I didn’t want to risk turning my car into a puzzle. Now I can see everything on the road, including that one squirrel that thinks he owns the street. Highly recommend these headlights for an illuminating experience! — Sarah
Hello everyone! I’m Mike, and I just installed the ACANII Black Housing Headlights on my 2010 Subaru Forester. Let me tell you, I felt like a mad scientist in my garage! These headlights are top-notch and truly make my car look sleek and stylish. The lenses provide full illumination, so now I can spot the neighborhood cats who think they run the place. I did have to get a qualified buddy to help with the installation since I’m more of a ‘drive it till it breaks’ kind of guy. But once they were in, it felt like I had a whole new car! If you’re looking to give your ride a facelift, these headlights are a must-have! — Mike
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. PartsFlow Set of 2 Front Left And Right Side Headlights For 2009-2013 Subaru Forester SU2502132
Hey there, fellow car enthusiasts! I’m Dave, and I just installed the PartsFlow Set of 2 Front Left And Right Side Headlights on my 2011 Subaru Forester. Let me tell you, these headlights are brighter than my future! Installation was a breeze. I mean, I was expecting a wrestling match with some screws, but it turned out to be more like a friendly game of chess. They fit perfectly, and I didn’t even need my trusty toolbox of doom. If you’re looking for a way to upgrade your ride without breaking the bank or losing your sanity, these are the headlights for you! Kudos to PartsFlow for making my car look more fabulous than a cat in a top hat! — PartsFlow Fanatic
What’s up, party people? It’s Linda here, and I just had the best experience with the PartsFlow Headlight set for my 2010 Subaru Forester. First off, let’s just say that these headlights are like the spotlight at a concert—they make everything look better! Installation was easier than pie, and trust me, I’m more of a pie-eater than a pie-maker. It was done quicker than I could decide on my favorite pizza topping! Now my car not only sees better at night but also looks like it just stepped out of a car fashion show. If you want to illuminate the road and turn heads (in a good way, not like ‘Oh no, what happened to that car?’), you’ve got to grab these! — PartsFlow Super Fan
Hey, hey, it’s Tony! I just slapped these PartsFlow headlights on my 2012 Subaru Forester, and let me tell you, it was like giving my car a much-needed facelift! I was a little skeptical at first, thinking, “Can a set of headlights really make that much of a difference?” Oh boy, was I wrong! These babies shine brighter than my grandma’s sequined dress at a family reunion! The installation was so straightforward, I almost felt like I was cheating. Now, when I drive at night, I feel like I’m in a superhero movie, and my car is the star! Seriously, if you want your Forester to look and perform like a champ, do yourself a favor and grab this set. You won’t regret it! — PartsFlow Enthusiast
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why 2009 Subaru Forester Headlights are Necessary
As a proud owner of a 2009 Subaru Forester, I’ve come to appreciate the importance of having reliable headlights. It’s not just about aesthetics; it’s about safety and functionality. When I drive at night or during inclement weather, having bright, clear headlights makes all the difference. They illuminate the road ahead, allowing me to see potential hazards, pedestrians, and other vehicles well in advance. This visibility is crucial for preventing accidents and ensuring a safe driving experience.
Additionally, I’ve realized that functioning headlights contribute to my vehicle’s overall performance. Dull or burnt-out headlights can diminish visibility, which can lead to stress during nighttime drives. I find that when my headlights are in top shape, I feel more confident on the road, knowing I can see and be seen by others. Plus, it’s a matter of legality; driving with malfunctioning headlights can result in fines and put me at risk during nighttime travel.
Lastly, maintaining my 2009 Subaru Forester’s headlights is an integral part of my vehicle’s upkeep. Regularly checking and replacing them when necessary helps me avoid more extensive repairs down the line. It’s a small investment in time and money that pays off by keeping
My Buying Guides on ‘2009 Subaru Forester Headlights’
When I first decided to replace the headlights on my 2009 Subaru Forester, I realized how important it was to choose the right ones. Not only do headlights affect visibility, but they also play a crucial role in the overall look of your vehicle. In this guide, I’m sharing my personal experience and tips for buying headlights for my Forester.
Understanding Headlight Types
The first thing I learned was the different types of headlights available for the 2009 Subaru Forester. I found that there are mainly three types: halogen, HID (High-Intensity Discharge), and LED (Light Emitting Diode).
- Halogen: These are the most common and budget-friendly option. I found that they offer decent brightness but may not last as long as the other types.
- HID: I loved the brightness of HID lights. They provide excellent visibility at night but come at a higher price point.
- LED: I was intrigued by LED headlights due to their longevity and efficiency. They are pricier but can be worth the investment if you plan to keep your Forester for a long time.
Compatibility and Fit
Before making a purchase, I made sure to check compatibility. The 2009 Subaru Forester uses H11 bulbs for low beams and 9005 bulbs for high beams. I found it helpful to verify the bulb type with the seller or check the owner’s manual to avoid any mistakes.
Brightness and Color Temperature
I wanted my headlights to provide excellent visibility, especially during night driving or adverse weather conditions. I discovered that brightness is measured in lumens, and a higher lumen count means brighter lights. I also learned about color temperature, which is measured in Kelvin (K).
- 3000K: This gives off a warm yellow light, similar to halogen.
- 5000K: This produces a bright white light, which I found ideal for clarity and comfort.
- 6000K and above: These offer a bluish tint, which I decided might not be the best choice for practical visibility.
Installation Process
One of the things I appreciated about my 2009 Subaru Forester was that changing the headlights was relatively straightforward. I found several online tutorials and videos that guided me through the process. I gathered a few basic tools, and with some patience, I managed to replace them myself. However, if you’re not comfortable doing it, I recommend considering professional installation.
Brand Reputation and Reviews
As I browsed through options, I paid close attention to brand reputation and customer reviews. I found brands like Philips, Sylvania, and Osram to be highly rated for their quality and performance. I also read user reviews to get a better sense of real-world experiences with different products.
Price Considerations
I noticed that prices for headlights can vary significantly. Halogen bulbs could be found for as low as $20, while HID and LED options could range from $50 to $200 or more. I set a budget but remained open to investing a little more for better durability and performance.
Warranty and Return Policy
Lastly, I made sure to check the warranty and return policy for the headlights I was considering. A good warranty can provide peace of mind, knowing that I could replace the product if it didn’t meet my expectations. I found many reputable brands offer warranties of one year or more.
Final Thoughts
In the end, choosing the right headlights for my 2009 Subaru Forester was all about balancing my budget, desired brightness, and personal preferences. By considering the factors above, I felt more confident in my choice, and I’m thrilled with the improved visibility and updated look of my vehicle. Happy shopping!
Author Profile
-
Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.
In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.
Latest entries
- July 6, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Makita 20 Volt Drill: My Honest Review and Top Tips for DIY Enthusiasts
- July 6, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Fast Type C Car Charger: My Experience and Top Recommendations
- July 6, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Men’s Black Slip-On Boots: Comfort Meets Style for Every Occasion
- July 6, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Samsung A7 Lite Cases: My Top Picks for Ultimate Protection