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What size bulbs does a Ford Transit take?

Bulb sizes on a Ford Transit vary by generation, market, and trim. In practice, you’ll commonly encounter headlights in H4 or H7 bases, fog lights in H11, front indicators in PY21W, tail/stop lights in P21/5W, reverse lights in W16W, and interior lights in T10 or festoon formats. Always verify the exact size for your specific van, year, and region using the manual or Ford’s official parts catalog.


Bulb sizes across Transit generations


Ford has updated the Transit across multiple generations and markets, which means headlamp assemblies and rear-light configurations can shift over time. The following guidance reflects the typical bases you’re likely to encounter, but exact sizes depend on your model year and location.


Common bulb types you may encounter


Below is a field guide to the bulb bases you are most likely to need when replacing a Ford Transit bulb. The sizes are provided for common configurations; always confirm with the specific bulb installed in your vehicle.



  • Headlights: H4 (HB2) or H7, depending on the headlamp design and year.

  • Fog lights: H11 is typical; some markets used H8 or H16 for certain trims.

  • Front indicators: PY21W (amber) is common; some variants use W5W/501 for smaller indicator lamps.

  • Tail and brake lights: P21/5W is common for rear combination lamps; some US-market variants may use 7443 for dual-function tail/brake lamps.

  • Reverse lights: W16W (also sold as W16W or T15 in some regions).

  • Interior lights (dome/map): T10 wedge bulbs or festoon bulbs, typically around 31-42 mm depending on fixture.


Conclusion: These are representative types, but exact sizes depend on year and market. Always verify using your vehicle’s documentation or by inspecting the bulb housing.


How to verify the exact bulb size for your Transit


Because the Transit has evolved and is sold in multiple regions, the only reliable way to confirm your exact bulb size is to check the owner’s manual, the bulb replacement chart, or Ford’s parts catalog for your VIN. Here are practical steps:



  1. Identify your exact model year and market (Europe, North America, etc.).

  2. Consult the owner's manual or the integrated bulb chart in the headlamp assembly or glove box.

  3. Remove the suspected bulb and read the base/type printed on the base or packaging; verify wattage and base (e.g., H4, H7, PY21W, P21/5W).

  4. If in doubt, use Ford’s official parts catalog or contact a dealer with your VIN to pull the exact bulb specification.


With the exact bulb identified, replace in a well-lit area, ensuring you handle bulbs with clean gloves to avoid oil contamination on the glass, and test each function before finishing the job.


Practical tips for replacement and safety


The replacement process is straightforward but requires care to avoid damaging the headlight seals and wiring. These tips help ensure a safe, lasting replacement:



  • Always use the correct wattage and base; using higher wattage can overheat wiring or melt fixtures.

  • Replace in pairs for headlights if one bulb has failed to maintain even illumination (where applicable).

  • Disconnect the battery before replacing bulbs in the headlight cluster to avoid short circuits.

  • Inspect seals around headlamps and tail lights to prevent water ingress after bulb replacement.


Summary


Bulb sizes for the Ford Transit are not universal; they depend on generation, market, and trim. The most common bases you’ll encounter include H4/H7 for headlights, H11 for fogs, PY21W for indicators, P21/5W for tail/brake, W16W for reverses, and T10/festoon for interior lights. To ensure accuracy, verify with the owner's manual, the vehicle’s bulb chart, or Ford’s official parts catalog using your VIN, and follow safe replacement practices.

Are 9005 and H11 bulbs the same?


If you're in a hurry, let us save you some time - H11 and 9005 (HB3) are not the same bulb, you cannot replace one with the other, and neither is better than the other, they simply have different designs and fit on different vehicles and/or different beams.



What size bulb is in the 2014 Ford Transit Connect?


Bulb Size: H11, H9, H8. Usage: High Beam and Low Beam.



What kind of bulbs are in the Ford Transit Custom?


Our data shows that your FORD TRANSIT CUSTOM does not come with Xenon lights directly from the manufacturer but instead uses H7 and H1 headlight bulbs.



What kind of headlight bulb for Ford Transit 250?


9005
OQSNCV Fit for Ford Transit 150 250 350 (2014-2023) Halogen Headlight Bulbs, 9005 High Beam + H11 Low Beam Headlamp Replacement Bulbs Kit, Pack of 4.


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.