Tried to do this today and thought it would be a simple 30 minute job, but, boy was I wrong. Is it really that difficult to replace the H1 bulbs on these cars!! Looks to me as if the only way to do it with the lack of space available is to remove the headlights altogether. Is this correct??
Can anyone shed some light (lol) on this for me please!!!

 

It can be done in situ but as you say, it is easier to remove the headlamp assy. You would need to do this anyway if you were replacing the sidelight bulbs. The handbook tells you how to do this and it doesn't take too long. I replaced the H1's with Osram Silverstar and the sidelights with Phillips Vision plus.
JohnD

 

Thought as much, but had probs removing them. Are there any hidden bolts??

 

Sorry for the delay - The handbook fails to mention a bolt that has to be removed! Scan around and you will see it. There is also a ball and socket that locates the assy. This can be a bit of a git and may need a good tug so be ready for it! (put a drop of grease on it on re-assy.)
JohnD

 

I replaced my dipped beam bulbs in my MY04 STI without needing to take the lights out.

For the driver side, remove the air intake - 2 bolts and it lifts off - very simple and gives you plenty of room - took me about 3 mins to then replace the bulb.

Other side - I managed it by just removing the bolt that holds the battery down - but to make it even easier just remove the battery.

 

I replaced my main beam bulbs on my MY03 WRX with no issues at all