Loading

What size are Ford Ranger headlights?

The Ford Ranger does not have a single standard headlight size. The correct size and bulb type depend on the model year, the market (for example US vs. Europe), and the headlight design in that generation. The latest generation tends to use LED projector headlights with integrated modules, while older Rangers rely on halogen or sealed-beam assemblies with varying bulb sizes.


To determine the exact size for your specific Ranger, identify the precise model year and market, then consult the owner's manual or Ford's official parts diagrams. This article outlines what to expect across generations and how to verify your vehicle’s exact requirement.


Headlight architecture across Ranger generations


Early Rangers: sealed-beam and early halogen setups


In the earliest generations, US-market Rangers often used sealed-beam or basic halogen headlights. These setups require specific replaceable bulbs or sealed-beam units, and the exact size varies by year and regional version. Always verify using the original owner's manual or a parts catalog for your vehicle’s VIN.


Mid-generation Rangers: halogen reflectors and projectors


As design evolved, mid-generation Rangers moved to halogen reflector or projector headlamps with various bulb types. Sizes differ by trim and market, so check your service manual or parts diagram to identify the correct bulb type for your build date.


Current generation: LED projector headlights


The latest Ranger generation in most markets uses LED projector headlights with integrated modules. For these, there is generally no standard replaceable bulb size; the entire headlight assembly or LED module is replaced when needed. Always confirm with the dealer or parts catalog for your exact vehicle.


How to identify the exact headlight size for your Ranger


Before you purchase replacements, there is a short process to ensure you get the right fit for your specific truck.



  • Check your owner's manual or the sticker inside the headlight housing for bulb size or part numbers.

  • Inspect the back of the headlight bulb or housing; the bulb type is usually printed on the bulb base or packaging labels.

  • Use your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) on FordParts.com or with a Ford dealer to pull the exact bulb or assembly specification for your exact vehicle configuration.

  • If you’re shopping aftermarket, verify compatibility with your year, trim, and market, or bring the old bulb or the headlight assembly to the store to ensure a correct match.


By following these steps, you can avoid ordering the wrong size or an incompatible LED module, especially on the newer Rangers where the headlight is not simply a replaceable bulb.


What to expect when replacing Ranger headlights


If you’re upgrading or replacing components, note that the approach changes by era. Modern LED headlights are typically replaced as a unit, rather than swapping a single bulb. If you have an older Ranger with halogen or sealed-beam headlights, you’ll identify and replace the specific bulb size as indicated by the manual or parts diagram.


Summary


There is no universal headlight size for the Ford Ranger. The correct specification depends on the model year, market, and headlight technology. Older Rangers used replaceable bulbs or sealed beams with various sizes, while the latest generation often uses LED projector headlights with non-replaceable bulbs. Always verify with your manual, VIN-based parts lookup, or a dealer to ensure you source the right part for your vehicle.

What headlight bulbs are in a 2019 Ford Ranger?


  • H11 or HIR2 Bulbs for your Dipped Beam - you pick.
  • HB3 Copperhead for your Main Beam.
  • W5W for your sidelights.
  • H8 for your fog lights.



What size headlight bulb for 2005 Ford Ranger?


The 2005 Ford Ranger uses a 9007 (HB5) bulb for both the high and low beam headlights. For the fog lights, the correct bulb is generally a 9145 (H10), though some STX models might use an H11, so it's best to verify if you have fog lights. 

  • Headlights (High and Low Beam): 9007 (HB5)
  • Fog Lights: 9145 (H10)



Are H11 and 9005 the same bulb?


No, H11 and 9005 bulbs are not the same; they have different base designs, wattages, and intended uses. H11 bulbs are typically 55W and used for low beams or fog lights, while 9005 bulbs are 65W and used for high beams. Their bases are incompatible, so they cannot be directly swapped without modification. 

Feature H11 9005 (HB3)
Primary Use Low beam, fog light High beam
Wattage 55W 65W
Base Type PGJ19-2 P20d
Lumens Around 1350 lm Around 1700-2100 lm
Fitment Not interchangeable due to different base designs Not interchangeable due to different base designs
(function(){
(this||self).Wufxzb=function(c,e,f,l,k){var d=document.getElementById(c);if(d&&(d.offsetWidth!==0||d.offsetHeight!==0)){c=d.querySelector("div");var g=c.scrollWidth-c.offsetWidth,h=Math.min(e?g:0,g);c.scrollLeft=e&&(l||f)?0:h;var a=d.getElementsByTagName("g-left-button")[0],b=d.getElementsByTagName("g-right-button")[0];a&&b&&(e=RegExp("\\btHT0l\\b"),f=RegExp("\\bpQXcHc\\b"),a.className=a.className.replace(e,""),b.className=b.className.replace(e,""),h===0?a.className="pQXcHc "+a.className:(a.className=
a.className.replace(f,""),k&&c.classList.add("pA30Ne")),h===g?b.className="pQXcHc "+b.className:(b.className=b.className.replace(f,""),k&&c.classList.add("FpCCub")),setTimeout(function(){a.className+=" tHT0l";b.className+=" tHT0l"},50))}};}).call(this);(function(){var id='_LdUlacqlHMXY7M8P4ubusAw_165';var rtl=false;var gecko=false;var edge=false;var soh=false;
(this||self).Wufxzb(id,rtl,gecko,edge,soh);})();



What kind of headlight bulb does a Ford Ranger take?


For a modern Ford Ranger (2019-present), the low beam headlight bulb type is H11 and the high beam is 9005 (HB3). Older models, like the 2006-2011 Ranger, use a 9007 (HB5) bulb for both the low and high beams. 
This video demonstrates how to replace the H11 headlight bulbs in a Ford Ranger: 1mClough ReviewsYouTube · Sep 11, 2023

  • Low Beam: H11 (H8/H9)
  • High Beam: 9005 (HB3)
  • Fog Lights: H11 (H8/H9)
  • Older Models (2006-2011): 9007 (HB5) for both low and high beams 


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.