What cars use H11 fog lights?
The H11 bulb is a common choice for fog lights on many car models, especially mid‑size sedans and SUVs. Exact bulb type can vary by year and trim, so the best way to know for a specific vehicle is to check the owner's manual or inspect the bulb itself.
Understanding H11 fog lights
H11 refers to a particular bulb base and size used in many fog lamp assemblies. It is a single-filament halogen bulb that has historically been favored for its compact footprint and easy replacement. While H11 remains widely used, automakers sometimes equip fog lights with different bulb types (such as H8, H9, or H16) or switch to LED modules in newer designs, depending on market and model year.
Common alternatives to H11
Some models or trims may use other bulb types for fog lights. If you are replacing a bulb and cannot find an H11 in your vehicle, the alternative sizes below are among those you might encounter in fog lamp housings.
Brand-wise examples where H11 fog lights are commonly found
Below are brands and representative models where H11 fog lights have appeared in various generations and trims. Be aware that exact bulb type can vary by year, market, and optional packages; always verify for your specific vehicle.
- Toyota: Camry, RAV4, Highlander (in many mid‑2000s to mid‑2010s trims; verify by year and package)
- Honda: CR‑V, Civic, Accord (fog light assemblies in several generations have used H11)
- Subaru: Impreza, Outback, Forester (H11 has been a common choice in multiple generations)
- Ford: Focus, Escape (historically used H11 in several trims, with changes in some newer models)
- Hyundai: Sonata, Elantra (H11 has shown up in numerous mid‑sized and compact models depending on year)
- Kia: Optima (K5), Sorento (certain years) (H11 used in many fog lamp setups)
- Nissan: Altima, Sentra (some trims and years used H11 for fogs)
- Mazda: Mazda6, CX‑5 (older to mid‑2010s models commonly used H11 in fogs; newer trims may use LEDs in fogs)
Note: This list is intended to illustrate typical usages across brands. Exact bulb type is year-, trim-, and market-specific. Always confirm for your particular vehicle before purchasing bulbs.
How to verify for your vehicle
To determine whether your car uses H11 fog lights, follow these steps. This procedure works even if you don’t have the manual handy.
- Park the car on level ground, switch off the engine, and ensure the lights are cool before touching anything.
- Open the hood and locate the fog light assembly behind the front bumper on the side you’ll service.
- Access the fog light bulb by removing the protective cover or the bulb housing according to the vehicle’s design.
- Carefully remove the old bulb or the bulb connector and read the markings on the base. Look for “H11” or the equivalent bulb code.
- If you can’t read the marking, compare the bulb’s base and fitment to a known H11 bulb at a parts store or consult the service manual for your model/year.
- Cross‑check the bulb size in the owner’s manual or on the vehicle’s maintenance site. If the car uses LEDs or a different base, the manual or dealer can confirm.
If you’re unsure after inspection, consult a dealer, a certified mechanic, or a trusted parts retailer. Bring the old bulb or a clear photo to ensure an exact match.
Summary
H11 fog lights are a widespread choice across many brands and generations, especially in mid‑size sedans and SUVs. Because bulb type varies by year, trim, and market, verify with your owner’s manual or by inspecting the bulb directly on your vehicle. When in doubt, seek professional confirmation to ensure you replace the correct bulb and maintain proper fog-light performance.
What vehicles take H11 bulbs?
A wide variety of vehicles use H11 bulbs, including many popular models from brands like Toyota, Honda, Ford, Chevrolet, and Nissan. These bulbs are commonly found in the low beam or fog lights of sedans, SUVs, and trucks. Examples include the Honda Accord, Ford F-150, Toyota Camry, and Chevrolet Silverado.
Examples by manufacturer
- Chevrolet: Silverado, Equinox, Malibu
- Ford: F-150, Explorer, Escape, Fusion
- Honda: Accord, Civic, CR-V, Pilot
- Nissan: Altima, Rogue, Sentra
- Toyota: Camry, Corolla, Tacoma
Important note
- It is always best to verify the bulb type with your vehicle's owner's manual or by checking the existing bulb before purchasing a replacement, as the specific bulb can vary by model year and trim.
What are the cons of H11 bulbs?
H11 LED headlight bulbs offer significant benefits, such as brighter illumination, energy efficiency, and a longer lifespan compared to traditional halogen bulbs. However, they can present common issues, including flickering, compatibility problems, dim or uneven light output, and overheating.
What are H11 bulbs used for?
H11 bulbs are primarily used as low-beam headlights and fog lights in a wide variety of vehicles, including cars, trucks, and motorcycles. Their design emits a focused, downward beam to avoid dazzling other drivers, while also providing a wide pattern for enhanced visibility in fog and other poor weather conditions.
- Low Beams: They are frequently used for the primary low beam setting in headlights due to their focused beam pattern, which is designed to light the road ahead without blinding oncoming traffic.
- Fog Lights: H11 bulbs are also a common choice for fog lights, as their wider beam helps cut through fog, rain, and mist for better visibility.
- Versatility: The bulb's compatibility and stable performance make it a popular option for both halogen and LED upgrades in many different vehicle makes and models.
Can H11 be used for fog lights?
H11 is a type of automotive headlight bulb. It adapts to different lighting technologies, making it a reliable choice for both fog light and low beam needs. This light has an L-shaped socket and a single, efficient filament. It has a standard voltage of 12V, and it fits most vehicles effortlessly.
