Hey everybody! I filmed this video to show how easy it is to replace the light bulbs in your HVAC (heater & air conditioner controls). I own a 2004 Subaru Forester XT with the automatic climate control package and all the bulbs burnt out. I needed to replace them, but Subaru pricing was waaaaay to high for such cheap bulbs. Rather than go the Radio Shack route, I opted to go with LEDs.
In the video, I didn't comment on the overall brightness when I was finished because, in the daylight, it looked pretty close. At night though, wow, they're bright! I'd say that the middle of each button is about 50% brighter than the rest of the dash, but the lighting on the side of the knobs is about the same. Just FYI.
This video should cover most of the Subaru models, as this unit is pretty darned standard across the product line.
You can disassemble the center dash panel very easily by following these instructions: www.subaruforester.org/vbulletin/f85/diy-hvac-bulb-replacement-2004-forester-51964/
Bulbs purchased were NEOx LED Bulb - High Power Instrument Panel LED - 4mm NEO4-xHP Green: www.superbrightleds.com/moreinfo/instrument-cluster-gauge/neox-led-bulb-high-power-instrument-panel-led/221/#/attributes/15
Grand total cost: $8.84 with shipping
Time to replace: 15-30 minutes depending on skill
Tools: #1 & #2 Philips Screwdriver, Flat head screwdriver or panel removal tool, Glue (optional)
Again, the other Subaru models share componentry, so their disassembly should be extremely similar. I hope this helps some of you in tackling your own DIY projects! Good luck :)