Home FAQ

Is H11 used for fog lights?

Yes. H11 is one of the most common bulb bases used for fog lights on many cars, but it is not universal; some vehicles use other bases such as H8, H9, or H16. Always verify the correct base for your vehicle before buying or swapping bulbs.

What is an H11 bulb?

H11 is a halogen automotive bulb with a single filament designed for 12-volt electrical systems. It is widely used in fog-light applications due to its compact form and reliable performance. The H11 base is standardized to fit a range of fog-light housings, allowing relatively straightforward replacement when compatible with the vehicle’s design.

H11 and fog lights: usage across vehicles

H11 is widely used for fog lights in a broad array of makes and models. Its compact size and predictable beam pattern make it a popular choice for fog-light assemblies. However, not every vehicle uses H11—some manufacturers specify different bases such as H8, H9, or H16 for their fog lamps. Always confirm the exact base for your vehicle by consulting the owner’s manual or inspecting the current bulb.

Common fog light bulb bases

There are several base types routinely used for fog light assemblies. The following are among the most prevalent you are likely to encounter:

When shopping for replacements, the key is to match the exact base and connector as stamped in your housing. If in doubt, pull the existing bulb and check the markings, or consult the vehicle’s manual.

Practical considerations: replacement and installation

Installing a new fog light bulb is typically straightforward but can vary by car. Always disconnect power before handling bulbs. Handle halogen bulbs with clean gloves or a cloth to avoid transferring oils to the glass, which can cause hot spots and premature failure. If you plan to upgrade to LED or HID equivalents, ensure the product is designed for your base type and that your vehicle’s wiring and heat management support the change.

Verification steps

Steps to verify the correct bulb type for your vehicle include:

Consult the owner's manual or the vehicle’s service guide for the specified fog light bulb base.

Check the bulb stamping when accessible; the code often indicates the base (for example, H11).

Inspect the fog-light housing opening to see if it matches the bulb base or labeled markings.

Using the correct base reduces the risk of improper fit, beam misalignment, or electrical issues during operation.

LED/HID retrofit cautions

If you’re considering LEDs or HID kits, verify compatibility, including ballast, CANBUS compatibility, and heat management. Not all fog-light housings can safely accommodate higher-intensity modules, and some jurisdictions require specific beam patterns or color temperatures. Always choose products that are clearly labeled for your base type and vehicle.

Regulatory and safety considerations

Color and brightness regulations for fog lights vary by region. Some jurisdictions require amber/yellow fog lights or impose limits on brightness and beam color temperature. Ensure your fog lights comply with local laws and avoid aftermarket configurations that could blind other drivers or fail inspection.

Summary

H11 is a widely used fog-light bulb base, but it is not universal. The correct base depends on the specific vehicle, so always verify with the manual or by examining the existing bulb. If you explore alternatives like LED or HID upgrades, ensure compatibility with your housing and local regulations. With the right match, fog lights deliver safer, clearer visibility in adverse weather conditions.

What are H11 LED bulbs used for?

Headlights: One of the most common uses of the H11 LED bulb is in vehicle headlights, especially for low beam applications. Its bright and clear illumination ensures enhanced visibility during nighttime driving. Fog Lights: For vehicles equipped with separate fog lights, the H11 LED bulb can be an excellent choice.

What type of bulbs are used for fog lights?

Halogen bulbs have been used in vehicle lighting for decades. Most vehicles still come standard with halogen fog lights. Although they're an older technology, there are some advantages to using halogen bulbs rather than LED.

What does a H11 bulb fit?

An H11 bulb fits various vehicles, most commonly for low beam headlights and fog lights. It is a popular and versatile bulb used in many different makes and models, including Toyota, Honda, Ford, Chevrolet, and many others. It's important to always confirm the specific bulb type needed for your vehicle, but an H11 is often compatible with other bulbs like H8 and H9.
Where H11 bulbs are used

Low beam headlights: This is a common application for H11 bulbs, providing the main forward-facing light when driving at night.
Fog lights: H11 bulbs are frequently used in fog light assemblies to improve visibility in poor weather conditions like fog, rain, or snow.
High beams: In some specific vehicles, H11 bulbs can also be used for high beam headlights.

Which vehicles use H11 bulbs

Toyota: Camry, Tacoma, Corolla, RAV4
Honda: Accord, Civic, CR-V, Pilot, Odyssey
Ford: F-150, Explorer, Escape, Mustang, Ranger
Chevrolet: Silverado, Equinox, Malibu
Nissan: Altima, Sentra, Rogue, Pathfinder
Other brands: Jeep, Dodge, Subaru, Mazda, and many more

How to be sure

Consult your owner's manual: This is the most reliable way to confirm the exact bulb type your car requires.
Check the existing bulb: Look at the bulb itself to see if there is a marking like H11.
Look up a compatible parts list: Many websites allow you to enter your car's make, model, and year to find the correct bulb size.

Can you use headlight bulbs for fog lights?

No, you should not use headlight bulbs for fog lights because they have different shapes, brightness levels, and beam patterns, and using them can cause glare, reduce your visibility in fog, and potentially damage your fog light housing or wiring. Fog lights are designed to be low to the ground to cut through fog, while headlights are designed to illuminate the road further ahead.
Why you can't interchange them

Incorrect beam pattern: Fog lights have a short, wide, low-lying beam to get under fog, while headlights project a beam that goes further down the road.
Glare: A headlight bulb in a fog light housing will likely scatter light improperly, blinding other drivers, and may not direct the light where you need it.
Heat and damage: Headlight bulbs, especially brighter halogen ones, can generate more heat, which could melt or warp the plastic housing of your fog lights and their wiring, a report from Royalin-Lighting ®️ notes.
Bulb and connector differences: Even if a bulb appears similar, it may have a different base or connector, which won't be compatible with the fog light housing.

This video explains the difference between fog lights and headlights and why they are not interchangeable: 18sWKMG News 6 ClickOrlandoYouTube · Jan 27, 2022
How to find the correct bulbs

Consult your vehicle's manual: This is the most reliable way to find the exact bulb type for your fog lights.
Check the existing bulb: Remove the current bulb from your fog light and look for the part number printed on it.
Use online bulb finders: Many auto parts websites have a tool where you can enter your vehicle's year, make, and model to find the correct bulb.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.