What kind of light bulb for fog lights?
Most fog lights use a halogen bulb of a specific base type—commonly H11, H8, H9, or H16 (also sold as 5202) —matched to the vehicle’s socket. Always verify with the owner's manual or by inspecting the current bulb.
Fog lights are designed to cut through fog and poor weather with a low, wide beam. The exact bulb you need depends on the make, model, and year of your vehicle, as well as the housing and wiring. In addition to standard halogens, there are LED and HID options, but these require careful compatibility checks and, in some regions, may be subject to regulations.
Common fog light bulb base types
The following base types are the most frequently seen in factory fog light assemblies.
- H11 — One of the most common fog light bulbs in North America; 12V halogen with a single filament.
- H8 and H9 — Smaller bases used on several Asian models; H9 variants are higher-power options in some kits.
- H16 (also marketed as 5202) — Widely used in European vehicles and many modern exports; available in halogen and LED/HID variants.
- H1 and H3 — Used in some vehicles with separate fog lamps or distinctive housings.
When replacing, make sure the bulb base matches the socket and that the physical size fits the housing. If you’re unsure, consult the owner’s manual or remove the existing bulb to read the base type.
Choosing between LED, HID, or halogen for fog lights
Besides the standard halogen options, drivers often consider LED or HID upgrades for fog lamps. Each option has its own trade‑offs in brightness, heat management, and legality.
- LED fog bulbs — Typically provide instant full brightness, longer life, and cooler operation; however, not all LEDs are a direct fit for every base, and beam patterns must be correct to avoid glare.
- HID fog kits — Can offer higher brightness and efficiency but require ballasts and proper alignment; glare and wiring concerns mean not every installation is suitable for fog use, and some regions regulate their use.
- OEM-grade LED/HID fog assemblies — Designed to fit a specific base and housing, with appropriate heat management; higher upfront cost but predictable performance.
In practice, many drivers stick with the stock halogen type for reliability and ease of installation, unless a compliant LED/HID upgrade is specifically designed for the vehicle.
Installation tips and safety considerations
Before replacing a fog bulb, ensure the vehicle is off and the lights are cool. Avoid touching the glass with bare fingers; oils can shorten bulb life. Handle bulbs by the base or wear gloves, and confirm the bulb seats correctly to maintain the housing seal and beam pattern. After installation, test the lights and check alignment to prevent glare for oncoming drivers.
What to check before buying
Keep these checks in mind to avoid buying the wrong bulb:
- Vehicle make, model, and year; the correct base type is usually listed in the manual or on the current bulb.
- Socket and housing compatibility; some vehicles use dual-filament setups or require resistors for LED upgrades.
- Wattage/voltage (most fog bulbs are 12V); ensure the replacement stays within the permissible range for your electrical system.
- Beam pattern and local regulations; some upgrades may be restricted or require proper installation to avoid glare.
For many buyers, sticking with the stock base type (for example, H11, H8/H9, or H16) is the simplest and most reliable path. If you want brighter output, seek a compliant LED or HID option that is specifically designed for your vehicle.
Summary
The right fog light bulb is vehicle-specific. Halogen remains the standard for many cars, with common bases including H11, H8/H9, H16, H1, and H3. LED and HID upgrades are available but require careful matching to the bulb base, housing fit, and local rules. Always consult the owner's manual and consider professional help for installation to ensure safe, compliant fog light performance.
