How do I know what bulbs fit my car?

Knowing what light bulbs fit your car is essential for maintaining proper lighting and ensuring your vehicle is road-legal. Whether you need to replace a headlight, taillight, or interior bulb, there are a few key steps to determine the right fit.

Identify the Bulb Type

The first step is to identify the specific type of bulb your car requires. This information can usually be found in your owner's manual or by consulting an online database that cross-references your vehicle make, model, and year. Common bulb types include H4, H7, 9005, 9006, and various sizes of LED and halogen bulbs.

Check the Bulb Size and Wattage

Once you know the bulb type, you'll need to determine the correct size and wattage. This information is often printed directly on the old bulb or can be found in your owner's manual. Matching the size and wattage is crucial to ensure the new bulb fits properly and functions correctly.

Consider Bulb Compatibility

In addition to size and wattage, you'll also want to ensure the new bulb is compatible with your vehicle's electrical system and lighting fixtures. Some bulbs may require specific sockets or connectors, so double-check that the replacement part will work with your car.

Tips for Purchasing the Right Bulbs

• Consult an online parts catalog: Many auto parts stores and websites offer tools that allow you to enter your vehicle's information and see the exact bulbs that fit.


• Bring the old bulb with you: Taking the old bulb to the store can help ensure you get the correct replacement.


• Consider upgrading to LED: LED bulbs often last longer and are more energy-efficient than traditional halogen or incandescent bulbs.


• Follow installation instructions carefully: Proper installation is crucial to avoid damage to your vehicle's electrical system.

By following these steps, you can confidently identify and purchase the right light bulbs for your car, ensuring your vehicle's lighting functions properly and meets all legal requirements.

How do I know what bulbs should I buy for my car?

Every car is different, and there are a variety of bulbs to fit each make and model. The easiest way to find the right bulbs for your car is to use our handy online tool, where you can input your registration number and find the exact bulbs you need.

How do you know which bulb will fit?

To know if a bulb will fit, check the base type and size by looking at the old bulb or fixture for a code like "E26," which indicates an Edison screw base that's 26mm in diameter. Also, ensure the voltage matches your fixture, as it is dictated by the device itself, and check the maximum wattage listed on the fixture to prevent damage or overheating.
 
Check the bulb's base and shape 

• Find the code: Look on the old bulb, its packaging, or the fixture itself for a base type and size code, such as "E26" for the common Edison screw base in the US. 
• Understand the code: The letter indicates the shape (e.g., 'E' for Edison screw, 'G' for globe, 'C' for candelabra) and the number indicates the diameter in millimeters (e.g., an E12 base is 12mm). 
• Consider the shape: The bulb's shape, like A19, T, or R, also needs to be compatible with the fixture, especially for things like recessed lighting or lamp shades. 

This video explains how to identify the correct base and shape for your light bulb: 59sHunter Fan CompanyYouTube · Nov 23, 2021
Check the wattage and voltage 

• Find the wattage limit: Look on the fixture for a sticker or inscription that specifies the maximum wattage it can handle. 
• Match the wattage: You can often use a bulb with a lower wattage than the maximum, but using a higher one can be a fire hazard or damage the fixture. 
• Match the voltage: The voltage requirement is determined by the fixture. For a standard US home fixture, you will likely need a 120V bulb. 

You can watch this video to learn how to choose the right wattage for your light bulb: 1mLowe's Home ImprovementYouTube · Jan 4, 2023
Other considerations

• Dimmable: If your fixture has a dimmer switch, you will need a bulb specifically labeled as "dimmable". 
• Look for "CANbus" compatibility: If you are replacing a bulb in a vehicle, you may need a "CANbus-compatible" bulb, which has a built-in resistor. 

How do I tell which light bulb I need?

To find the right light bulb, first check the old bulb for its base type (like E26 screw-in) and shape (like A19). Then, look at the fixture's label for the maximum wattage and choose a replacement bulb with the correct base, a compatible wattage (or higher lumens if you want brighter light), and the desired color temperature (measured in Kelvin) and technology (like LED). 
This video explains how to choose the right light bulb based on its characteristics: 58sFeit ElectricYouTube · Sep 29, 2022
1. Identify the base and shape 

• Look at the old bulb: Find markings on the old bulb itself. Common examples include an "E26" for a medium screw base or "B22" for a bayonet cap. 
• Measure the base: If there are no markings, measure the diameter of the base. An E26 base is 26mm, and you can multiply the diameter in inches by 8 to find the number for a corresponding shape code like an A19, notes Techlicious and this YouTube video. 
• Use the fixture's label: Some fixtures have a label with information printed on them, especially older ones, or you can take a photo to show an associate at a hardware store. 

You can watch this video to learn how to measure the base of a light bulb: 53sAMRE SupplyYouTube · Jul 5, 2020
2. Determine the brightness

• Check the fixture's maximum wattage: Look for a label on the fixture itself to find the maximum wattage it can handle. Never use a bulb with a wattage higher than this limit. 
• Use lumens for brightness: With modern bulbs like LEDs, it's better to use lumens, which measure the actual brightness, rather than watts. A higher number of lumens means a brighter bulb. 
• Find the equivalent: Look for a "wattage equivalent" on the packaging of new bulbs, which helps you choose a new LED bulb that has the same brightness as an old incandescent bulb you are replacing. 

This video explains how to choose the right light bulb based on brightness: 59sGE Lighting, a Savant companyYouTube · Jun 30, 2014
3. Choose the technology and color 

• Consider LED: LEDs are the most energy-efficient and long-lasting option. 
• Select the color temperature: The color temperature is measured in Kelvin (K). 
  • Warm White: Lower Kelvin numbers, like 2700K, create a cozy, yellowish light. 
  • Cool White/Daylight: Higher Kelvin numbers, around 5000K or more, produce a bluer, brighter, and more stimulating light. 
• Be consistent: It is best to choose one color temperature and use it consistently throughout a room or even the whole house for a uniform look. 

How do I know which bulb fits my car?

For a bulb installed in your car, you can find the number stamped or printed on the side of the bulb. It's also listed in the service manual and in an auto bulb guide. Only the correct bulb size will fit in the headlamp housing and connect to the factory wiring.