Home FAQ

What kind of bulbs are in a 2010 Ford Focus?

The 2010 Ford Focus generally uses halogen bulbs for exterior lighting, with the exact bulb codes varying by market and trim. In North American models, headlights typically use H11 for low beams and 9005 for high beams, with fog lights often using H11 and front turn signals using amber bulbs such as 3157. European trims commonly use different bulbs, such as H7 for low beams and H1 for high beams, with fog lights potentially using H3. Some models may have optional HID headlights, but halogen setups are the most common. Always verify with the owner's manual or by inspecting the bulb markings on your car.

This article explains the typical bulb configurations you may encounter on a 2010 Focus, how to confirm the exact bulb type for your vehicle, and practical steps for replacement and verification.

Headlights and Their Bulbs

Headlight configurations on the 2010 Focus vary by region and trim, so the exact bulb codes you’ll find can differ. The following outlines cover the two most common patterns you’re likely to encounter.

North American models: low-beam bulbs are commonly H11, high-beam bulbs are 9005 (HB3); fog lights, if equipped, often use H11; front turn signals typically use amber bulbs such as 3157; parking lights are typically small wedge bulbs (W5W/194), depending on trim.

European/other markets: low-beam bulbs are commonly H7, high-beam bulbs are H1; fog lights, if present, may use H3; other exterior bulbs follow the same general roles but may use different part codes based on regional packaging.

These patterns reflect typical configurations observed on 2010 Focus models, but exact bulb types can vary by year, trim level, and regional specifications. When replacing bulbs, always confirm the precise type for your vehicle.

Other Exterior Bulbs and Indicators

Beyond the headlights, the 2010 Focus uses several other exterior bulbs for signaling and illumination. The exact types can vary, but these are the common patterns you’ll encounter.

Front turn signals: amber bulbs (commonly 3157 or similar), depending on trim and market.

Parking lights: small wedge bulbs such as W5W (also sold as 194) in some trims.

Fog lights (if equipped): typically H11 in North American configurations or H3 in some European trims.

As with headlights, confirm the exact bulb codes for your car by checking the manual, inspecting the bulb itself, or consulting a parts diagram for your VIN.

How to Confirm the Exact Bulb for Your Car

Because bulb configurations vary by region and trim, use these steps to identify the correct replacements for your specific vehicle.

Consult the owner's manual for the bulb specifications by trim and market.

Remove a bulb from the socket and read the markings on the base or glass stem (e.g., H11, H7, 9005, etc.).

Inspect the bulb socket or connector for any codes or shape cues that indicate the bulb type.

Check Ford’s official parts diagrams or contact a dealer with your VIN for precise replacement bulbs.

When replacing, consider replacing bulbs in pairs to maintain even lighting on the road.

Following these steps will help ensure you buy the correct bulbs for your 2010 Focus and avoid mismatches that could affect performance or legality.

Summary

In short, a 2010 Ford Focus mostly relies on halogen bulbs for its standard exterior lighting, with common configurations including H11 low beams and 9005 high beams in North America, and H7 low beams with H1 high beams in some European trims. Fog lights, turn signals, and parking lights have their own typical bulb types, but exact specifications depend on regional market and trim. Always verify with the owner's manual or by checking the bulb marking or parts diagrams for your specific vehicle. If in doubt, consult a dealer or an auto parts professional to ensure you get the correct replacement bulb.

What bulbs does a 2010 Ford Focus take?

Xenon HID Kits

Application	Bulb Size
Dipped Beam	H7	See Bulbs
Main Beam	H1	See Bulbs
Front Fog	H11	See Bulbs
Sidelight	501	See Bulbs

What bulbs does a Ford Focus take?

Bulb H4 VALEO Essential. VALEO - 032006.
Bulb H7. BOSCH - 1 987 301 012.
Bulb H7 VALEO Life x2. VALEO - 032516.
Bulb H7. HELLA - 8GH 007 157-121.
Set of 2 bulbs W5W Premium. PHILIPS - 12961B2.
Glühlampe H7 ULTRA LIFE. OSRAM - 64210ULT.
Bulb- headlight H1. HELLA - 8GH 002 089-133.
Front light bulb. PHILIPS - 12342RGTS2.

What years of Ford Focus to stay away from?

The Ford Focus years to avoid are 2012-2016, due to major issues with the automatic PowerShift transmission. Other years to avoid include 2007 and 2008 for electrical and steering problems, and 2017–2018, which had lingering transmission and other issues, although fewer than previous years.
You can watch this video to learn about the common problems in the 3rd generation Ford Focus: 1m1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics KnowYouTube · Apr 13, 2022
Problematic model years

2007–2008: These models are associated with faulty electrical systems, door handle failures, and frequent issues with steering and suspension.
2012–2016: This range is considered the most problematic, primarily due to the PowerShift dual-clutch automatic transmission, which frequently failed and is expensive to repair. Problems included hesitation, jerking, and complete failure, often before 100,000 miles. Some models in this period also had issues with power steering and electrical glitches.
2017–2018: While improved, these years still saw some lingering transmission problems and sporadic electrical issues.

What to look for in other model years

Manual transmission: The problematic issues mainly affected the automatic versions of the third-generation Focus (2012-2018). Models with a manual transmission from this period are generally considered more reliable.
Earlier models (pre-2012): While not entirely trouble-free, models before 2012, especially around 2011, are often seen as more reliable than their successors due to simpler transmissions.
Later models (post-2016): The 2018 and 2019 models are often praised for improved reliability and handling.

You can watch this video to learn about common problems with Ford Focus models: 1mCarAraCYouTube · Nov 13, 2023

Are H11 and H7 bulbs the same?

No, H7 and H11 bulbs are not the same and cannot be used interchangeably because they have different base designs, socket types, and dimensions. The primary differences are their base configuration and the type of application they are designed for; H7 bulbs are often used for both low and high beams, while H11 bulbs are typically for low beams or fog lights.
Key differences between H7 and H11 bulbs

Feature	H7	H11
Base/Socket Design	PX26d base with two bare prongs	PGJ19-2 base with two encased prongs
Application	Low and high beams	Low beams and fog lights
Dimensions	Larger diameter (~26 mm)	Smaller diameter (~19 mm)
Interchangeability	Not interchangeable with H11	Not interchangeable with H7

Check your owner's manual: This is the most reliable source for the correct bulb type for your vehicle.
Examine the existing bulb: Take out the old bulb and look for the bulb number printed on its base.
Use an online bulb finder: Many automotive parts websites have tools that can look up the correct bulb for your specific vehicle.

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.