Subaru Outback headlights turn off with key but tail lights and marker lights remain on on Subaru Outback

Submitted by Vehicle Owner · Jun 23, 2025
Published by RepairPal

Problem overview

Some Subaru Outback owners report experiencing issues where the headlights turn off with the key, while the tail lights and marker lights remain on. This common problem can occur even when the headlight switch is off, necessitating the pulling of specific fuses, such as Fuse 20A lightingSW or Fuse 10A Tail/Clearance, to turn off the lights. Additionally, some owners find that the low-beam headlights may activate when the key is inserted into the ignition switch and turn off upon removal, regardless of whether the engine is started. Modifications to the headlight circuit may also contribute to this issue. To properly operate the headlights, owners should ensure that the knob on the turn signal lever is turned to the correct position, which activates the necessary lights. If facing this issue, it is advisable to check these potential causes for effective troubleshooting and resolution.

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