Note: This article contains affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support my research and content. Read my full affiliate disclosure here.
If you drive a 2013-2017 Subaru Crosstrek, properly matched fog lights can make a meaningful difference in low-visibility conditions like rain, snow, and nighttime fog. The right fog light upgrades improve short-range illumination without creating glare that blinds oncoming drivers, and they must fit the Crosstrek's factory openings and electrical system.This guide shortlists six top-rated fog lights chosen for fitment, beam pattern, and durability for the 2013-2017 Crosstrek. We evaluate each option for ease of installation, light output and beam cutoff, weather resistance, and compatibility so you can pick the solution that best matches your driving needs. Read on for practical fitment notes and installation considerations before the product list.
Looking for other parts? See all Subaru Crosstrek parts & accessories.
Top Picks at a Glance
1. Prefer Warehouse Pair Front Fog Lights with H11 Halogen Bulbs for Subaru Impreza / XV Crosstrek / Forester
Best Overall Fog Lights
| Light Source | Halogen |
|---|---|
| Voltage | 12 volts |
| Wattage | 55 watts |
| Additional Features | Waterproof |
| Auto Part Position | Front |
These fog light assemblies provide a straightforward replacement for the factory units on compatible Subaru models and come as a matched left/right pair with H11 12V 55W halogen bulbs installed. They are intended for daytime and low-visibility driving where a wide, low beam improves road illumination and makes the vehicle more visible to others. The housings are fully sealed and waterproof with polycarbonate lenses and metal/ABS construction, which helps resist impact, dust, and corrosion for longer life in wet climates. Installation is vehicle-specific, so alignment and plug-and-play fitment are generally straightforward for DIY installers following the factory mounting points, though some trimming or bracket adjustments can be needed depending on previous modifications. DOT/SAE compliance means they are legal for street use. Compared with LED options these are less energy efficient and offer a warmer, less intense beam, but they are easy to swap and inexpensive to maintain with standard H11 bulbs.
Best for: Drivers who want a reliable, factory-style replacement fog light that balances ease of installation, legal road use, and durable weather resistance for everyday and low-visibility driving.
Less Ideal for: Buyers seeking the highest brightness, lowest energy draw, or a long-life LED conversion should consider LED fog units instead.
- Vehicle-specific fit for Subaru Impreza (2012–2019), XV Crosstrek (2013–2019) and Forester (2014–2018) for easier installation
- Includes H11 12V 55W halogen bulbs for immediate use out of the box
- Sealed, waterproof housing and polycarbonate lens resist moisture, dust, and impacts
- DOT/SAE compliant so units are legal for on-road use
- Halogen light output and efficiency lag modern LED options
- May require minor adjustments or hardware changes if prior bumper modifications were made
Verdict: The best all-around fog lights that balance brightness, beam cutoff, durability, and ease of installation for most DIY installers.
2. Prefer Warehouse Pair 9-LED Fog Light Assembly for Subaru Crosstrek/Impreza/Forester
Best Budget Fog Lights
| Light Source | LED |
|---|---|
| Wattage | 36 watts |
| Voltage | 12 volts |
| Auto Part Position | Front |
| Bulb Size | H11 |
These fog light assemblies replace the factory front fog lamps with a pair of sealed 9-LED units that run at 36 watts and 12 volts. They are sold as a direct replacement for compatible Subaru Impreza, Crosstrek, and Forester years and use an H11 bulb interface, so installation is typically plug-and-play when the original part numbers match. The housing is ABS with metal components and the lens has a special coating intended to resist hazing. Because the lights are fully sealed and DOT/SAE compliant, they are suitable for occasional use in fog, rain, and snowy conditions and should hold up against moisture and road debris. Expect noticeably brighter, whiter output than older halogen fog bulbs, but these are best suited to drivers seeking an affordable lighting upgrade rather than professional-grade optics; alignment and beam sharpness may differ from factory units. The product comes as a pair and includes parts for left and right sides but verify compatibility with your vehicle part number before buying.
Best for: Buyers on a tight budget who want a simple, drop-in fog light replacement that improves visibility over aging halogen bulbs and installs without major modification.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking factory-matching beam pattern, professional-grade light output, or heavy daily use in extreme off-road conditions should consider higher-end options instead.
- Vehicle-specific direct replacement design for straightforward installation when original part numbers match
- Sealed ABS and metal housing with anti-haze lens coating for better durability in wet conditions
- DOT/SAE compliance means the lights meet basic street-legal photometric and safety standards
- 9-LED, 36W output offers clearer, whiter illumination than typical halogen fog bulbs
- Not engineered as a high-end performance optic so beam cutoff and focus may be less precise than factory or premium aftermarket units
Verdict: The best budget fog lights for buyers who prioritize low price while still getting acceptable brightness and straightforward installation for occasional use.
3. OCPPMG LED Fog Light Assembly for Subaru Crosstrek & Impreza (3.5" Clear Lens, 6000K) — 4-Piece
Best LED Fog Lights
| Specific Uses For Product | For Subaru Crosstrek 2016-2024 & Impreza 2017-2024 Fog Light |
|---|---|
| Light Source | LED |
| Additional Features | Waterproof |
| Voltage | 12 volts |
| Wattage | 50 watts |
This OCPPMG kit replaces the factory fog light housings with 3.5-inch glass lenses and pairs them with H11 6000K LED bulbs designed for the Crosstrek 2016-2024 and Impreza 2017-2024 fog light openings. It is intended as a direct plug-and-play swap using the H11 connector and includes an extra 9005/5202 adapter for certain variations, so installation can be completed without cutting or drilling when the vehicle wiring matches. The LEDs claim much higher output than stock, producing crisp pure-white illumination that improves short-range visibility in rain and low-light driving. The housings are rated IP68 for water and dust resistance and the seller cites a long 50,000-hour life thanks to heat-resistant glass and quality LED chips. Practical limitations are that fitment is limited to the stated Subaru models and the set only includes two housings and two bulbs per kit, so buyers replacing a full factory assembly should verify which components they need; professional installation is recommended if mounting or connector differences appear.
Best for: Drivers seeking significantly brighter, energy-efficient fog lighting and long service life for a Subaru Crosstrek 2016-2024 or Impreza 2017-2024 who prioritize improved short-range visibility in poor weather.
Less Ideal for: Someone who needs a universal fog solution for multiple vehicle models or a different Crosstrek year range outside 2016-2024 should look for alternatives matched to their specific vehicle.
- High 6000K LED output for brighter, clearer short-range illumination compared with typical factory fog lamps
- IP68 waterproof and dustproof rating suitable for heavy rain and car washes
- Includes H11 bulbs with a 9005/5202 adapter to cover common connector variations
- Glass lens housings advertised as heat and fade resistant for long-term durability
- Kit contains two housings and two bulbs so confirm it matches the exact parts you need for a full replacement
Verdict: The best LED fog lights for users who want superior lumen output, long service life, and energy-efficient performance in varying weather conditions.
4. KarParts360 Fog Light Assembly for Subaru XV Crosstrek (2013–2015), Driver or Passenger Side
Best Halogen Fog Lights
| Light Source | Halogen |
|---|---|
| Additional Features | Waterproof |
| Voltage | 12 volts |
| Auto Part Position | Front |
This KarParts360 fog light assembly replaces the factory fog lamp on Subaru XV Crosstrek models and uses a halogen bulb, making it a familiar fit for drivers who prefer warm, easy-to-replace lighting. It installs with a screw-in attachment and includes a waterproof plastic housing and clear lens, so it is suitable for typical wet or winter conditions. The unit is made to match the OEM part number 84501FJ000 and is marketed as a vehicle-specific replacement without driver assist compatibility. In practice the halogen bulb provides adequate low-angle illumination to cut glare and improve visibility in fog or heavy precipitation while being inexpensive to maintain. Buyers should note this is an aftermarket part rather than a factory unit and it arrives without advanced features like LED performance or built-in leveling sensors, so expect a standard halogen beam and conventional aiming needs. For anyone keeping a stock lighting setup, this is a straightforward, cost-effective swap that restores foglight function with minimal fuss.
Best for: Buyers looking to restore or maintain the stock halogen fog lighting on a 2013–2017 Subaru Crosstrek who value easy bulb replacement and lower initial cost over upgraded lighting technologies.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking higher-output or longer-lived LED or HID upgrades, or those who need fog lights integrated with advanced driver assist systems, should consider other options.
- Direct replacement fit made to match OEM part number for straightforward installation
- Uses halogen bulbs for easy, inexpensive bulb swaps
- Waterproof plastic housing and clear lens suitable for wet and winter driving
- Screw-in attachment mirrors factory mounting for simple retrofit
- Aftermarket unit lacks integrated driver assist sensors or advanced alignment features
Verdict: The best halogen fog lights for buyers who prefer the familiar warm beam, easy bulb swaps, and lower upfront cost compared with newer technologies.
5. Diode Dynamics Elite Series Fog Lamps for Subaru Crosstrek (pair), Yellow 3000K
Best Premium Fog Lights
| Light Source | LED |
|---|---|
| Voltage | 12 volts |
| Wattage | 18 watts |
| Additional Features | Waterproof |
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
These Diode Dynamics Elite Series fog lamps are a premium, direct-replacement LED solution engineered for the Subaru Crosstrek. They use a custom optic and multi-die automotive emitters to produce a very wide 80-degree beam with a sharp cutoff, giving stronger, more uniform amber fog illumination than stock halogen units. Installation is plug-and-play for the main beam so you can swap them in without cutting or modifying harnesses, and the housings are built with polycarbonate lenses and waterproofing for long-term durability in wet conditions. A built-in amber backlight provides an accent function that can be wired to a constant 12V source and will turn off when the main beam activates. Because these meet SAE F3 fog light standards, they are intended for legal on-road use when aimed properly. Expect a higher price versus basic replacements, and note the yellow 3000K tint is optimized for contrast in fog rather than maximum white light for visibility in all conditions.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize professional-grade optics, build quality, and a factory-like, vehicle-specific fit and are willing to pay more for improved fog performance and durability.
Less Ideal for: Shoppers seeking the cheapest replacement or a bright white color temperature for general nighttime illumination should consider less expensive or different-color options instead.
- Vehicle-specific, plug-and-play design for easy installation
- Custom-engineered optic producing a very wide, smooth 80-degree beam with sharp cutoff
- Built to premium standards with multi-die emitters and full-copper circuit boards for durability
- Integrated amber backlight for accent lighting or marker functionality
- Waterproof construction and polycarbonate lens suited for harsh weather
- Higher-cost premium option compared with basic replacement fog lamps
Verdict: The best premium fog lights for buyers willing to pay more for improved build quality, precision optics, enhanced durability, and professional-grade performance.
6. Winjet OEM Series Fog Light Kit with Switch and Wiring for 2012-2014 Impreza / 2012-2015 XV Crosstrek
Best Complete Fog Light Kit
| Light Source | Halogen |
|---|---|
| Voltage | 12 volts |
| Wattage | 80 watts |
| Additional Features | Waterproof |
| Included Components | Left and Right Fog Light, Wiring Kit, Switch |
This Winjet fog light kit supplies a complete, vehicle-specific replacement for Crosstrek owners who need front fog lamps and the wiring to install them. The kit ships with matched left and right glass-lensed fog lights, halogen bulbs, an on/off switch, and a wiring harness so you do not need to source extra parts. It is built for a direct fit with factory-style mounting and a 12 volt, 80 watt halogen light source that improves low-visibility illumination in rain, fog, and snow. The glass lens and waterproofing help durability in wet conditions, and the included switch lets you add control without tapping into the factory cluster. Expect a straightforward installation if you are comfortable with basic automotive wiring, though the lights use halogen rather than brighter LED technology and professional installation is recommended if you lack experience. For DIYers who want a single purchase that covers lamps, wiring, and controls, this kit is a practical bolt-on solution that restores factory-style fog functionality.
Best for: DIY installers who want a single, vehicle-matched fog light kit that includes lamps, switch, and wiring for a bolt-on replacement without hunting for parts separately.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking the highest possible brightness or lower power draw who prefer LED retrofits or professional custom lighting upgrades.
- Complete kit includes both fog lamps, halogen bulbs, wiring harness, and switch for a single purchase install
- Vehicle-specific fit designed to mount like factory parts for a clean, bolt-on replacement
- Waterproof construction and glass lenses improve durability in wet weather
- Standard 12V/80W halogen bulbs provide reliable illumination for low-visibility driving
- Uses halogen bulbs instead of LED, so it will be less bright and less efficient than modern LED kits
Verdict: The best complete fog light kit for DIY installers who want a single purchase that contains everything needed for a full, bolt-on replacement or upgrade.
Choosing the Right 2013-2017 Subaru Crosstrek Fog Lights: Key Factors to Consider
Fitment and Mounting
Correct fitment is the first requirement for any fog light on the 2013-2017 Subaru Crosstrek. Fog housing dimensions, mounting tab locations, and bezel shape vary between model years and trim levels, so a unit that lists Crosstrek 2013-2017 compatibility or matches OEM mounting points reduces the need for brackets or trimming.
Poor fitment can lead to vibration, water ingress, and misaligned beams that scatter light rather than cut through fog. Confirm whether the kit is left/right specific and whether additional clips or screws are included. Also check if the unit fits with the bumper trim or requires removal of the bumper to install. Proper mounting ensures a stable beam angle and long-term reliability in winter and off-road conditions.
Beam Pattern and Optics
Fog lights should produce a wide, low-height beam to illuminate the road surface and edges without creating backscatter in fog or snow. Look for optics designed to flood the immediate area in front of the vehicle with a defined horizontal cutoff to minimize glare for oncoming traffic.
Reflector-style units can be effective, but projector-style optics often deliver a more controlled beam with a sharper cutoff. Consider the driving environments you frequent: tight city streets favor broader side illumination, while open rural roads benefit from slightly longer, more focused spread. Check manufacturer beam diagrams and user reports about real-world performance rather than relying solely on raw lumen numbers.
Light Source Type and Color Temperature
Fog lights are available with halogen, HID, and LED light sources, each with tradeoffs for the Crosstrek. Halogen bulbs are simple to replace and produce a warm color that penetrates certain fog conditions well but have lower luminous efficacy. LEDs offer higher efficiency, longer life, and faster turn-on, but quality varies widely and poor LED optics can cause glare.
Color temperature affects penetration: warmer tones (around 3000K) can reduce backscatter in dense fog, while cooler temperatures (5000K and above) appear brighter but may reflect more from fog and snow particles. When selecting a light source, balance desired longevity, power draw, and the kind of conditions you most often drive in.
Electrical Compatibility and Wiring
Ensuring electrical compatibility with the Crosstrek's factory wiring and switchgear prevents headaches during installation. Some aftermarket fog lights are designed for plug-and-play operation using existing connectors or simple harness adapters that include relays and fuses. Others may require splicing, adding relays, or upgrading switches.
Assess the supplied wiring harness and whether it includes a relay and in-line fuse to protect the vehicle circuit. For LED upgrades, consider whether a resistor or CANbus-compatible driver is needed to avoid flicker or dashboard warnings. Properly routed and secured wiring reduces the chance of corrosion or short circuits in wet conditions.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Fog lights on a Crosstrek will be exposed to road salt, stones, and moisture, so build quality matters for longevity. Look for sealed housings with IP67-level protection or better to guard against dust and temporary submersion. Durable lens materials and impact-resistant bezels help resist cracking from debris on rough roads.
Vent and gasket design affect long-term seal integrity. Units with replaceable seals or serviceable components make maintenance easier. Consider coatings or finishes that resist corrosion on mounting brackets and hardware if you live in regions that use winter road treatments.
Ease of Installation and Adjustability
How hard it is to install fog lights affects whether you can do the job yourself or need a shop. Kits that include vehicle-specific brackets, clear instructions, and hardware reduce installation time and potential errors. For the 2013-2017 Crosstrek, check whether bumper removal is required or if the lights can be accessed through the wheel well or a service panel.
Adjustability is important for setting beam angle after installation. Look for mounting slots or adjustable brackets that allow vertical and horizontal aiming. Proper aim improves effectiveness and keeps you legal, as misaligned beams can dazzle other drivers and reduce road illumination where you need it most.
Understanding Fog Light Types and When to Upgrade
Not all fog lights perform the same, and understanding the differences helps you choose the right upgrade for your Crosstrek. Halogen replacements are straightforward and maintain an OEM-like appearance, while LED retrofits can offer greater brightness and longer service life if paired with appropriate optics. Projector-style fog lights tend to control beam spread better than basic reflectors, reducing glare in wet or foggy conditions.
Consider your driving patterns: frequent highway driving benefits from a slightly longer spread, whereas urban or off-road use favors a broader, lower beam. Upgrading for aesthetics alone is common, but prioritize beam control and compatibility to avoid creating visibility problems for yourself and others.
- Halogen: simple, warm-color, easy to replace
- LED: efficient, long-life, requires good optics
- Projector: sharper cutoff, better glare control
Installation Tips Specific to the 2013-2017 Crosstrek
On the 2013-2017 Crosstrek, some fog light installs are accessible through the wheel well or lower bumper openings, while others may require partial bumper removal depending on the kit. Review the kit instructions and verify whether the package includes Crosstrek-compatible brackets and mounting hardware before you begin.
If a wiring harness is included, route it away from moving suspension parts and hot exhaust components, and secure connectors with zip ties and dielectric grease on electrical contacts to improve corrosion resistance. After installation, adjust the beam aim on a level surface to the recommended height for the vehicle to prevent dazzling oncoming traffic.
- Check whether bumper removal is necessary before starting
- Secure wiring away from heat and moving parts
- Use dielectric grease on connectors to prevent corrosion
- Aim beams on a level surface after installation
Maintaining and Troubleshooting Fog Lights
Regular maintenance extends the life of fog lights on a Crosstrek. Periodically inspect seals and lens clarity, and clean lenses to remove road grime and salt that reduce output. Replace cracked lenses or failing seals promptly to avoid moisture buildup that can damage internal components.
If you experience flicker or intermittent operation after installing aftermarket lights, check the fuse, relay, and ground connections first. For LED setups, confirm the harness is supplying stable voltage and that any drivers or resistors are functioning. Addressing electrical issues early is less costly than repairing corroded connectors or replacing a water-damaged housing.
- Inspect seals and lenses seasonally
- Clean lenses to maintain light output
- Check fuse and relay when troubleshooting flicker
- Confirm solid ground and secured connections
Legal and Practical Considerations
Fog light regulations vary by region and often dictate allowable color, aim, and when the lights can be used. For the Crosstrek, ensure your chosen fog lights produce a legal beam color and are aimed within local guidelines to avoid fines and maintain safety.
Practically, avoid excessively bright, high-mounted driving lights labeled as 'fog' since they can cause glare in fog and reduce visibility. Stick with units engineered for low, wide illumination and that document compliance with common automotive lighting standards.
- Confirm color and aim meet local regulations
- Prefer low, wide beams over high-mounted driving lights
- Check that the unit documentation lists applicable standards or tests
Selecting Accessories and Replacement Parts
Consider purchasing compatible replacement bulbs, seals, and mounting hardware at the time of upgrade to simplify future maintenance. For LED assemblies, check whether individual LEDs or drivers can be serviced or whether the entire housing must be replaced if a component fails.
If you plan to protect the lights from debris, consider clear covers or protective films that do not significantly alter beam output. Replacement parts that match the Crosstrek mounting system will save time and maintain proper alignment during service.
- Keep spare bulbs and seals on hand for quick replacement
- Use protective films or covers designed for fog lights
- Verify availability of service parts before committing to an assembly
Still looking for the perfect fit?
Select your Subaru Crosstrek configuration to see the most relevant Fog Lights recommendations
How We Chose the Best 2013-2017 Subaru Crosstrek Fog Lights
We narrowed candidates based on criteria that matter for 2013-2017 Subaru Crosstrek owners and excluded options that fail to meet basic fitment or durability expectations. Primary evaluation criteria included physical fitment to Crosstrek-specific fog openings and mounting points, ensuring each unit either matched OEM dimensions or documented compatibility for that year range. Beam pattern and cutoff were judged by stated optics type and reported beam spread so the lights provide usable short-range illumination without excessive glare. Electrical compatibility and wiring were assessed to avoid units requiring major vehicle modifications; we prioritized plug-and-play or minimally invasive installations. Durability factors included IP or moisture resistance ratings, serviceable seals, and materials suitable for road debris exposure and winter conditions. Thermal management for high-output LED options was considered to prevent lumen drop and premature failure. Finally, we filtered out products lacking clear installation guidance or that require complex fabrication. Exclusions: items without verified fitment for 2013-2017 Crosstrek, non-waterproof housings, and options that mandate extensive vehicle modification were not considered further.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
FAQ
Can I install aftermarket fog lights on my 2013-2017 Crosstrek myself?
Often you can, especially if the kit is listed as Crosstrek 2013-2017 compatible and includes a wiring harness and mounting hardware. Some installs require bumper removal or access through the wheel well, so basic mechanical skill and tools are usually needed.
Are LED fog lights better than halogen for the Crosstrek?
LEDs offer longer life and efficiency, but only if paired with proper optics and thermal management. Halogen is simpler and provides a warmer color that can work well in dense fog. Choose based on beam control needs and whether the LED kit is designed for fog applications.
How should I aim fog lights on the Crosstrek after installation?
Aim the fog lights low and wide so the beam hits the road surface in front of the vehicle without projecting high into oncoming traffic. Use a level surface, mark the beam pattern against a wall, and adjust vertical and horizontal aim to meet local guidelines.
Will upgrading fog lights require changes to the Crosstrek wiring harness?
Not always. Many kits include a dedicated harness with relay and fuse for plug-and-play installation. Higher-power or non-standard units may require adding a relay or splicing into the vehicle wiring, so verify what is included before starting.
How do I prevent moisture from entering fog light housings?
Use sealed housings rated for water resistance and inspect gaskets and venting regularly. Applying dielectric grease to electrical connectors and ensuring mounting points are properly sealed reduces the chance of moisture ingress.
Do color temperature differences matter for fog light performance?
Yes. Warmer color temperatures around 3000K tend to reduce backscatter in dense fog, while cooler temperatures may appear brighter but can reflect more off water droplets. Match the color temperature to the typical conditions you encounter.
Final Verdict
When choosing fog lights for a 2013-2017 Subaru Crosstrek, prioritize fitment and beam control above raw brightness. A unit that mounts securely, offers a controlled low and wide beam, and resists moisture will provide the best day-to-day improvement in poor visibility. Consider your typical driving conditions, electrical compatibility, and ease of installation when weighing tradeoffs between halogen and LED options.Focus on durable housings with serviceable seals and adjustable aiming hardware so you can maintain proper alignment and long-term function. With those priorities in mind, you can confidently select fog lights that enhance visibility without creating additional glare or installation headaches.
Explore More:
- Check out all Subaru Crosstrek parts & accessories
- Explore Lighting
- Browse all Accessories
