Whether you’re chasing the horizon through winding mountain roads or navigating your daily commute during a heavy downpour, your Subaru deserves lighting that can match its go-anywhere attitude. That’s where a lightbar comes in.
A lightbar for your Subaru isn’t just about throwing bright beams across dark trails—it’s about enhancing safety, boosting visibility, and making your vehicle look like the adventure-ready rig it was born to be. With a wide variety of lightbar options available today, there’s something to suit every driving style and every model, from Outbacks to Crosstreks and beyond.
Why a Lightbar is the Perfect Companion for Your Subaru
Subarus are known for their versatility. They’re equally comfortable on dirt trails, snowy roads, and city streets. So it only makes sense to add a lighting upgrade that’s just as flexible.
Here’s why a lightbar is a smart addition to your setup:
1. Increased Visibility in Low-Light Conditions
If you’ve ever driven through remote areas, you know how quickly things can turn pitch black. Standard headlights have a limited range. A lightbar can flood the area ahead and around you, illuminating what your factory lights simply can’t reach.
2. Enhanced Safety
More visibility means quicker reaction times. Whether you’re dodging a fallen branch or avoiding wildlife crossing the road at night, better lighting helps you see dangers sooner—and respond faster.
3. Style Meets Function
Let’s be honest- lightbars just look cool. Adding a sleek, custom-fit lightbar to your Subaru gives it that rugged, ready-for-anything look. You don’t have to go over the top to make a statement.
Different Mounting Styles for Every Subaru Driver
Not all lightbars are created- or mounted- equally. The style and placement of your lightbar can affect both its performance and its appearance.
Roof-Mounted Lightbars
Ideal for serious off-roaders or those frequently driving in rural or mountainous regions. A roof-mounted bar gives you high visibility and a commanding spread of light.
Grille or Bumper-Mounted Lightbars
A great option for drivers who prefer a low-profile look while still benefiting from additional light. These mount points are often easier to install and less likely to get caught on low-hanging branches or obstacles.
Hood/Ditch Light Mounts
Perfect for lighting up the sides of trails or turns ahead, these compact options are subtle but powerful- especially when paired with a main beam.
Features to Look For in a Subaru Lightbar
Choosing the right lightbar for your Subaru depends on how and where you drive. Here are some of the top features to consider:
Beam Pattern: Spot beams are narrow and far-reaching. Flood beams are wide and great for short distances. Combo beams offer the best of both.
Lumens Rating: The higher the lumens, the brighter the light. Aim for a balance that doesn’t blind others but gives you plenty of visibility.
Durability: Look for bars with aluminum housings, polycarbonate lenses, and IP67 or IP68 water/dust resistance.
Ease of Installation: Many Subaru-specific bars are designed to fit existing mounting points- no drilling required.
Switch Control: Opt for setups that include interior switches or remote options to toggle your lightbar when needed.
When and Where to Use a Lightbar
While it may be tempting to turn on your lightbar during any night drive, you should be aware of the laws in your area. Many states and provinces restrict lightbar use to off-road conditions only.
That’s why most setups include an on/off switch so you can activate your Subaru lightbar only when appropriate- on trails, in private lots, or during emergency situations.
That said, the benefits in those settings are undeniable. Here’s when a lightbar really shines:
- Nighttime trail driving
- Camping in remote areas
- Roadside emergencies or breakdowns
- Snowy or foggy mountain roads
- After-dark outdoor hobbies (fishing, hiking, etc.)
How to Install a Subaru Lightbar
Installing a lightbar on your Subaru doesn’t have to be intimidating. Many kits today come with everything you need: mounting brackets, a wiring harness, fuses, relays, and even switch panels.
Here’s a simplified overview of the process:
- Choose Your Mount Location: Consider visibility, aesthetics, and legality.
- Secure the Mounting Brackets: Use factory points when available or carefully drill if needed.
- Wire the Lightbar: Connect it to the battery using the harness. Don’t forget a relay and fuse for safety.
- Mount the Switch: Install it in a convenient interior spot—many drivers use the dash or center console.
- Test the System: Always double-check your connections and aim the lightbar to avoid blinding others.
If you’re not comfortable with wiring, any local 4×4 shop or mechanic can complete the install in a couple of hours.
Choosing the Right Size and Style
Not every Subaru is built the same, and neither is every lightbar. Compact options work great for Crosstreks and Foresters, while larger models like the Ascent can support wider bars.
Look for a Subaru lightbar that complements your model’s body lines without overpowering its design. Many manufacturers now offer vehicle-specific kits that fit perfectly with minimal effort.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re an avid overlander, weekend adventurer, or just want extra lighting during winter months, a lightbar is one of the most practical and visually striking upgrades you can make to your Subaru.
For drivers who want top-quality lightbar options with thoughtful engineering and sleek design, M&R Automotive provides solutions built to match the Subaru lifestyle- rugged, reliable, and ready for adventure.