How to Install WRX Fog Lights? | DIY for Every Generation

Adding fog lights to a Subaru WRX is a rewarding DIY upgrade for better visibility in bad weather and a meaner front end. Each generation has its own quirks, and knowing them before you start saves hours. If you’re still choosing a kit, our recommended WRX fog light picks cover the best options for every year and trim.

What Each WRX Generation Requires

WRX fog light kits are generation-specific. The table below summarizes changes between the three main groups.

How Do the Installation Steps Differ by Model Year?

The install sequence changes with the platform. Here is what each generation requires, based on documented kit procedures.

2008–2014 WRX

This is the most straightforward. Remove the lower and upper covers under the bumper—the bumper can stay on, though some pull it for easier access. Mounting holes sit behind the bumper beam on each side. Route the relay and harness inside the cabin through an existing grommet, then install the fog lamps from the outside. Each lamp must have the writing or label facing up; tabs slide into place before you tighten two bolts per side. Test the lights before reassembling covers and verify the beam pattern is level.

2015–2021 WRX & STI

For 2015–2017 STI Switchback DRL kits and 2018-up bezel-style kits, the approach is similar but requires patience with wiring. Start by removing the OEM fog-lamp bezel—on some trims you may need to cut off the turn-signal cap and trim lining material. Open the wheel-well liner for access behind the bumper fascia, insert the fog lamps from behind, and secure with included screws. If your kit includes new bezels, snap the outer edge first, then the inner edge, to fully lock them. For wiring, lay the harness below the radiator support with the longer lead routed to the passenger side. Connect the black wire to battery negative and the red wire to an ACC 12V positive in the fuse box. The ACC fuse adapter included with many kits has a single pin port, so one pin may need to be bent or cut off. Per the iJDMTOY 2018-up WRX fog light kit guide, route the universal switch through the firewall and mount it under the dashboard. On Switchback models you have two control boxes and two power-harness connections; splice the turn-signal circuit as directed. A successful install means all functions—fog, DRL, and turn-signal where applicable—work without blowing a fuse.

2022+ WRX

The newest WRX requires bumper removal, but kit hardware is thorough: brackets with threaded clips, washers, coarse-thread screws, a lower metal clip, and a plastic anchor with a push pin. Separate brackets and lamps, matching R-labeled bracket to the passenger side and L to the driver side. Attach threaded clips to brackets, secure each fog light with washers and coarse-thread screws, and add the lower metal clip. Route the shorter harness connector to the driver side and the longer lead to the passenger side. Pass the green connector through the clutch-cylinder grommet into the cabin, then install the fog-light button in the dash coin-holder location. Mock up the bumper and test lights before reinstalling fully—catching a misrouted wire now is easier.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Three mistakes show up repeatedly. First, mounting the lamp on the wrong side or with wrong orientation—the label or writing should face up, and sides are clearly marked. Second, misrouting the harness: lead lengths are specific per side, and routing through the correct grommet or below the radiator prevents pinching or chafing. Third, skipping the test-before-reassembly step; once the bumper is fully on, correcting a misaligned lamp means removing it all again. Keep all wiring clear of belt pulleys, steering components, and hot surfaces. Secure loose leads with cable ties before reattaching panels. Verify lamp aim before final bolt-tightening—spec sheets for some kits list 8 in/lbs during assembly and 32 in/lbs after aiming. If one side looks lower, adjust the bracket before tightening to the higher torque value.