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What does a 7443 bulb fit?

The 7443 bulb is a common automotive dual‑filament bulb used in rear lighting systems. It typically powers two functions in one lamp: a dim tail/running light and a brighter brake or turn signal light.


In practice, the exact fit depends on your vehicle. Bulb codes can vary by year, make, and model, and some regional variants use slightly different socket configurations. Always verify with your owner's manual or a trusted parts reference before purchasing replacements.


Where the 7443 is typically used


Because the 7443 is designed with two filaments, it is commonly employed in rear combination lamps that require two lighting circuits in a single socket. The two filaments allow a lower-intensity running light and a higher-intensity signal for braking or signaling turns. Below are the typical roles you may encounter across many vehicles:



  • Tail light / running light (low brightness filament)

  • Brake light or turn signal (high brightness filament) in the same rear lamp

  • In some models, a multi-function rear lamp may use 7443 to support additional signaling within the same assembly


In most cases, the 7443’s dual-filament design is what enables these two functions to operate from a single bulb in the rear lighting assembly.


How to verify compatibility with your vehicle


To ensure you get the correct bulb for your car, follow these steps:



  • Check the existing bulb code printed on the bulb itself, or consult the vehicle’s owner’s manual or an online parts database for your year, make, and model

  • Inspect the lamp socket in the tail/brake/marker light to confirm it accepts a 7443 bulb and to understand whether it uses a bayonet-style base or another mounting method

  • Match the bulb’s dual-filament ratings to the vehicle’s requirements; the two filaments will have their own wattage ratings and brightness levels

  • Consider compatibility with any aftermarket LED replacements, ensuring the vehicle’s electrical and signaling systems support them


Bottom line: compatibility hinges on the specific vehicle and lamp assembly, so always verify with reliable sources or a professional if you’re unsure.


Summary


The 7443 bulb is a common two-filament automotive bulb designed for rear lighting, providing both a dim tail light and a brighter brake or turn signal from the same lamp. Its exact fitting varies by vehicle, so always confirm using the owner's manual or a trusted parts reference. When properly matched, a 7443 replacement restores proper signaling and visibility for safe driving.

Is 7443 a tail light?


Multi-Application - LASFIT 7443 LED bulb red is the upgraded replacement for tail lights, brake lights.



What is a 7443 bulb used for?


A 7443 bulb is a dual-filament, two-brightness bulb used for applications like tail lights that also function as brake lights, or parking and turn signal lights. It is a versatile automotive light used for both dim (parking/tail) and bright (brake/turn signal) functions in vehicles.
 
Common uses for a 7443 bulb

  • Dual-function tail and brake lights: The bulb has two levels of brightness, one for the tail light and a brighter setting for the brake light. 
  • Parking and turn signal lights: It can be used for a combination parking light and a brighter turn signal light. 
  • Daytime Running Lights (DRL): The bulb can be used for DRLs on the front of the vehicle. 
  • Backup/Reverse lights: It can also be used for reverse lights, especially when they are part of a dual-function assembly,. 

7443 vs. 7440
  • 7443: This is a dual-filament bulb that works for applications with two different brightness levels, like brake lights that are also tail lights.
  • 7440: This is a single-filament bulb, used for single-function lights like turn signals or reverse lights. 



Are 7443 and 7440 the same bulb?


No, 7440 and 7443 bulbs are not the same because the 7443 is a dual-filament bulb with two light outputs (like a tail light and a brake light), while the 7440 is a single-filament bulb with only one light output. The bases are physically the same, which can lead to confusion, but a 7443 cannot be used in a socket designed for a 7440 for applications that need only one brightness level, and a 7440 will not have the second filament for dual-function lights.
 
7443 vs. 7440

Feature 7443 Bulb 7440 Bulb
Filaments Dual-filament (two filaments) Single-filament (one filament)
Function Used for dual-function lights (e.g., tail light and brake light) Used for single-function lights (e.g., turn signal, backup light)
Interchangeability A 7443 can be used in a 7440 socket, but it will only function as a single-filament bulb, and the second filament will not work, according to this Facebook post. A 7440 cannot be used in a 7443 socket because it lacks the necessary dual-filament technology for dual-function lights, say Underground Lighting and Reddit users.
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Important considerations
  • Socket compatibility: While the bases look similar, some vehicle sockets are designed for specific circuits, such as CK or Non-CK, which can impact compatibility, according to Lasfit. 
  • LED upgrades: When converting to LED bulbs, it's crucial to use the correct type, as LEDs can draw less power and may require additional resistors to prevent issues like hyper-flashing, note Underground Lighting and Amazon.com. 



What bulb is interchangeable with 7443?


Equivalent bulbs for a 7443 include 7443ST, 7443LL, 7444, and 992, though some, like the 7444, may have slightly higher brightness. The 7443 bulb can often be replaced by a 7440, but the reverse is not true because the 7443 is a dual-filament bulb that functions as both a tail and brake light, while the 7440 is a single-filament bulb. 
Common equivalents

  • 7444NA: A natural amber version often used for turn signals. 
  • 7443ST: A specialty bulb, often used as a direct replacement. 
  • 7443LL: A "long life" version of the 7443 bulb. 
  • 992: Another compatible bulb size that can fit a 7443 socket. 
  • T20, W21/5W: These are European classifications that are often equivalent to the 7443. 

Important considerations
  • Dual vs. single filament: The 7443 is a dual-filament bulb (for tail and brake lights), while the 7440 is a single-filament bulb. You can use a 7443 in a 7440 socket, but a 7440 bulb will not work in a 7443 socket because it lacks the dual-filament capability. 
  • Polarity: Some LED replacements are non-polar, which simplifies installation. 
  • Brightness: Some equivalents, like the 7444, have slightly higher wattage and brightness. 
  • Manufacturer: Check the vehicle's owner's manual or use a vehicle finder tool on a parts website to ensure correct fitment and compatibility. 


Kevin's Auto

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.