What bulb is the dipped beam?
Dipped beam refers to the low-beam headlight used for regular nighttime driving; the bulb type varies by vehicle. Common options include halogen H7, H11, H4; HID xenon D1S, D2S, D3S, D4S; and LED assemblies. To know the exact bulb for your car, consult the manual or inspect the current bulb.
What dipped beam means in today’s cars
Dipped beam, also called low beam, is the headlight setting designed to illuminate the road ahead without dazzling oncoming drivers. It is distinct from high beam (main beam) and is required in poor visibility conditions, on country roads, and at night. The bulb used for dipped beam depends on the vehicle’s headlight design and market regulations.
Common bulb types used for dipped beam
This list covers the most frequent bulb types you’ll encounter for dipped beams across aftermarket, European, and North American vehicles. The exact bulb in your car may be one of these or a built-in LED module.
- H7 – A popular halogen low-beam bulb found in many European and Asian cars; typically single filament with separate high beam bulb in some configurations.
- H11 – Common in many modern halogen headlights for low beam or fog lights; sometimes used in projector-style housings.
- H1 and H4 – Older or budget setups; H4 is a dual-filament bulb (low and high beam in one bulb) used in some vehicles; H1 is often used for dedicated low-beam in some models.
- D1S, D2S, D3S, D4S – Xenon/HID bulbs used in high-intensity discharge headlamps; require ballast and may be factory installed or aftermarket; D1S/D2S/D3S for classic HID, D4S for some newer systems.
- LED modules – Increasingly common in newer vehicles; replacement involves the entire headlight unit or a dedicated LED module rather than a traditional bulb.
Because vehicle headlight technology varies, there is no universal bulb for dipped beam. Always verify with your model year and trim configuration.
How to identify your car’s dipped-beam bulb
The following steps help you determine the exact bulb type for your car, enabling you to purchase the correct replacement.
- Check the owner’s manual or the specifications section for the headlight bulb type and part number.
- Inspect the existing bulb and socket: remove the dust cover, turn off the vehicle, and carefully disconnect wires to read the bulb base markings or part number.
- Look for the bulb’s base code on the base itself (often printed on the metal collar) or the packaging if you have the original box.
- Match the base shape and connector to a parts catalog or online database by entering your vehicle’s make, model, year, and trim.
- If your car uses HID or LED headlights, confirm whether it relies on a ballast (HID) or a dedicated LED module, which affects replacement requirements.
If you’re unsure, consult a professional or a dealer to avoid purchasing the wrong bulb, which could lead to poor lighting or electrical issues.
What to know about replacing dipped-beam bulbs
When replacing a dipped-beam bulb, consider replacing a pair to ensure even brightness and color temperature across the front lights, especially if the other bulb is aging. Wear gloves to avoid skin oils on halogen bulbs, which can shorten life, and dispose of old bulbs according to local regulations.
Summary
Dipped beam refers to the low-beam headlight. The bulb type varies by vehicle and market, with common options including halogen H7, H11, H4; HID D1S/D2S/D3S/D4S; and LED assemblies. To identify the exact bulb for your car, consult the owner’s manual, inspect the existing bulb, or use a reliable parts catalog. Replacing bulbs safely and matching pair brightness helps maintain road visibility and safety.
How to fix dipped beam setting in Mercedes?
So I'll show you how to stop. It. But I would recommend you get your car double checked at your local dealership just in case there is any underlying. Issues on the infotainment.
How to tell which bulb is high beam or low beam?
Each light bulb is labeled with its model and specifications, which are important criteria for distinguishing between high beam and low beam bulbs. For example, H1, H3, H7, etc. are common halogen bulb models, some of which may be designed as high beam bulbs, while others are specifically designed for low beam bulbs.
Is dipped beam the same as headlight?
Dipped headlights are the most commonly used headlights; brighter than sidelights, but not as bright as full beam headlights. They get their name as they are angled downwards, towards the road.
Which bulb is low beam, 9005 or 9006?
The 9005 bulb is mainly used for high beams, offering brighter and more direct light. On the other hand, the 9006 bulb is primarily used for low beams, providing wider and less intense illumination.
