What bulb does a Ford Ranger take?
The short answer is that there isn’t a single bulb type for all Rangers. It depends on the model year, generation, and trim. Newer Rangers may use LED headlights or halogen bulbs such as H11 for low beams and 9005 for high beams, while older models can use different halogens or even sealed-beam units. Always check the owner's manual or the headlight assembly to confirm the exact bulb code.
Generation-by-generation guide
As Ford’s mid-size pickup evolved, so did its lighting hardware. The exact bulb is tied to model year, trim level, and whether the headlights are halogen, HID, or LED. The following outlines typical configurations you’ll encounter, with caveats.
Current-generation Ranger (2019–present)
In the 2019–present Ranger sold in the United States, many trims use projector-style halogen headlights with H11 low-beam bulbs and 9005 high-beam bulbs, while higher trims or packages may feature LED headlights that don’t use standard replaceable bulbs. Fog lights are commonly H11. If your truck has LED headlights, you’ll replace LEDs or modules rather than a traditional bulb.
Older generations (1998–2012) and alternatives
Earlier Rangers could use traditional halogen reflector headlights with separate bulbs, such as H4/H11/9005/9006 depending on the specific headlamp unit. Some early models used sealed-beam units that aren’t replaced by a bulb at all—the entire headlamp assembly is replaced.
How to confirm the exact bulb for your Ranger
To avoid guesswork, verify with the manual, the owner's manual lamp section, or Ford’s parts catalog. The steps below help you identify the correct bulb quickly.
- Check the owner’s manual or the label inside the driver’s door jamb that lists bulb types and wattage for your exact model.
- Inspect the current bulb to read the base code or part number printed on the bulb itself, if accessible.
- Use Ford’s official parts lookup or an auto parts site by entering year, trim, and body style to retrieve the exact bulb type.
- Ask a dealer or auto parts counter for confirmation if you’re unsure; they can verify the correct bulb for your VIN.
Before listing steps, note that the following methods are common ways to identify the correct bulb for your Ranger.
Note: Some Ranger headlights are LED or HID and may not use a simple replaceable bulb. In those cases, replacement often involves the LED module or ballast rather than a conventional bulb.
Tips for replacing and ensuring compatibility
When you’re ready to replace, these guidelines help ensure a safe, long-lasting result.
- Replace bulbs in matched pairs when one fails, to maintain even light output and color.
- Handle halogen bulbs with clean gloves or a tissue to avoid skin oils on the glass, which can shorten bulb life.
- Confirm wattage and base type exactly matches the original; using an incorrect bulb can damage wiring or affect beam alignment.
- If your Ranger has LED headlights, you may need to service or replace the LED module rather than a bulb, which is typically done by a dealer or trained technician.
Replacing the wrong bulb can affect warranty coverage or headlight performance, so when in doubt seek professional help.
Summary
The Ford Ranger does not have a universal bulb type. The correct bulb depends on the model year, generation, and trim, with recent models offering LED headlights and older ones using various halogen bulbs (such as H11 for low beams and 9005 for high beams) plus fog light bulbs. Always verify with the owner’s manual or Ford’s parts catalog, and use the exact bulb type specified for reliable performance.
What size are Ford Ranger headlights?
Ford Ranger (2022-2023) Bulb Size Chart
| Headlights (High Beam)(XL/XLT) | 9005 (HB3) |
|---|---|
| Headlights (Low Beam)(XL/XLT) | H11 (H8 H9) |
| Front Fog Lights | H11 (H8 H9) |
| Reverse Light (Back-Up Light) | 7443 (7440) |
| Cargo Box Light | T15 (912 921) |
What bulbs does the Ford Ranger use?
OQSNCV Fit for Ford Ranger (2019 2020 2021 2022 2023) Halogen Headlight Bulbs, 9005 High Beam+ H11 Low Beam +H11 Fog light Headlamp Replacement Bulbs Kit, Pack of 6.
What bulbs for Ford Ranger 2018?
Description
- H15 for the Main Beam.
- H11 or HIR2 for the Dipped Beam, just pick which you need, if you're not sure it's as simple as popping out your current bulb and reading the markings.
- W5W for Side Lights.
- H8 for Fog Lights, yes even the fog lights, no point in leaving them out!
Are H11 and 9005 the same bulb?
No, H11 and 9005 bulbs are not the same, and they are not interchangeable because they have different bases, wattage, and beam patterns. The H11 is typically a lower-wattage bulb used for low beams and fog lights, while the 9005 is a higher-wattage bulb designed for high beams.
| Feature | H11 | 9005 (HB3) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Use | Low beams, fog lights | High beams |
| Wattage | 55 watts | 65 watts |
| Brightness (Lumens) | ~1350 lumens | ~1700-2100 lumens |
| Base Type | PGJ19-2 | P20d |
| Beam Pattern | Focused, downward-facing light | Brighter, wider beam for longer distance |
| Plug Design | 2 narrow prongs with a specific locking tab | 2 wide prongs with a different locking tab |
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