Which bulb is low beam in a Honda Accord?
The short answer is: it depends on the model year and the headlight type. In many older Accords with traditional halogen headlights, the low-beam bulb is typically an H11. On newer Accords with HID or LED headlights, the low beam may be a dedicated HID bulb (not a simple H11) or, in LED-equipped models, a non-replaceable LED module. For precise identification, check your owner’s manual or share your year and trim so I can confirm the exact bulb type for your car.
Headlight configurations in the Honda Accord have evolved across generations, with halogen reflectors, HID projectors, and LED assemblies appearing in different trims and markets. The following guide outlines common configurations and how to verify the exact bulb you need for your specific Accord.
Common headlight configurations you might encounter in a Honda Accord
Halogen headlamps (older generations)
Many older Accords with halogen headlights use a replaceable bulb for the low beam, commonly the H11 type, while the high beam typically uses a 9005 (HB3) bulb. The exact bulb can vary by year and market, so it’s important to verify on your vehicle.
- Low-beam bulb: commonly H11 on many halogen-equipped Accords
- High-beam bulb: commonly 9005
- Accessibility: usually accessible from the engine bay through the headlight cover
Concluding: If your Accord is a halogen model from an earlier generation, there’s a strong chance the low beam is H11, but always verify with your manual or by inspecting the bulb cap.
HID projector headlamps
Some Accord trims and years use HID (xenon) projectors for the low beam. In these systems, the “bulb” is an HID bulb that works with a ballast rather than a standard halogen bulb. The specific HID bulb type can be D2S or D3S, depending on generation and market.
- Low-beam bulb type: often D2S or D3S (HID)
- Requires ballast and proper handling to avoid damage
- Bulb type is usually printed on the bulb base or on the ballast wiring
Concluding: For HID-equipped Accords, the low-beam designation is not a simple H11-type bulb; confirm the exact HID bulb (D2S/D3S) from the manual or a parts guide tailored to your year/trim.
LED headlamps
In newer Accords, some trims use LED low beams. In these cases, there isn’t a replaceable bulb in the traditional sense—the low beam is an LED module within the headlight assembly. If an LED component fails, replacement often involves the entire module or headlight assembly and may require dealership or specialized service.
- Low-beam type: LED module (not a traditional replaceable bulb)
- Replacement often requires service or a full assembly replacement
Concluding: For LED-equipped Accords, you won’t be replacing an H11 or similar bulb; follow manufacturer service guidelines for any headlight issues.
How to identify the exact bulb for your specific Accord
The following steps help you confirm the exact low-beam bulb for your car, regardless of year or trim.
- Check the owner’s manual or the official Honda parts site for your exact year and trim—look for the bulb specification for headlights.
- Inspect the headlight assembly: locate the back of the headlight and examine the cap or label on the bulb socket to read the bulb type (or note the base type for replacement).
- If you’re unsure, compare the base shape and connector with a current replacement bulb at an auto parts store or use the store’s diagnostic guide by entering your year/trim.
- For HID or LED systems, check whether the system uses a ballast or an LED module; this helps determine if it’s a replaceable bulb or a larger component.
Concluding: The most reliable way to know is to reference your manual or confirm with a parts guide for your exact year/trim. If you share your Honda Accord’s year and trim, I can confirm the precise low-beam bulb for your car.
Bulb replacement tips by system
Different headlight systems have different handling requirements. Here are practical tips to keep in mind when replacing a bulb.
- Halogen: handle bulbs by the glass, not the metal base, to avoid oil contamination. Wear gloves if possible.
- HID: never touch the HID bulb glass with bare hands; misalignment or contamination can shorten life. Replacement often requires re-aiming or recalibration after replacement.
- LED: if your low beams are LED modules, replacement may involve the entire module or assembly rather than a single bulb.
Concluding: Always follow the specific service manual for your Accord’s headlight system, and consider professional help for HID/LED replacements to ensure proper alignment and warranty coverage.
Summary
Because Honda Accord headlight configurations vary across generations, the low-beam bulb is not the same for every model. Halogen-equipped Accords commonly use H11 for the low beam, HID-equipped models use a dedicated HID bulb such as D2S or D3S, and LED-equipped models rely on an LED module rather than a replaceable bulb. To be certain, check your owner’s manual or share your exact year and trim and I’ll confirm the precise bulb type for your Accord.
If you’d like, tell me your year and trim, and I’ll provide a precise bulb type and replacement steps tailored to your vehicle.
What bulbs does the Honda Accord use?
Honda Accord (2021) Bulb Size Chart
- 9005 (HB3)
- 9005 (HB3) Reverse Light (Back-Up Light) T15 (912 921) Dome Light. T10 (194 168) Map Light. T10 (194 168) Stepwell Light. T10 (194 168) Turn Signal Light (Front) 7443 (7440) Turn Signal Light (Rear) 7443 (7440) Trunk Light. T10 (194 168)
How to tell which bulb is high beam or low beam?
Each light bulb is labeled with its model and specifications, which are important criteria for distinguishing between high beam and low beam bulbs. For example, H1, H3, H7, etc. are common halogen bulb models, some of which may be designed as high beam bulbs, while others are specifically designed for low beam bulbs.
What light bulb is in low beam 2016 Honda Accord headlights?
2013 to 2017 Honda Accord - Headlight Bulb Sizes (Low & High Beam)
| Position | Bulb | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Low Beam Headlights (dims) | H11 or LED | Halogen |
| High Beam Headlights (brights) | 9005 | Halogen |
Is H11 a low beam or high beam?
An H11 bulb is typically used for low beam headlights and fog lights, while the 9005 (HB3) bulb is commonly used for the high beam. While H11 bulbs are designed for low beams, always check your vehicle's manual to confirm the correct bulb type for your specific car, as some vehicles may use them for high beams as well.
- H11: Primarily used for low beams and fog lights.
- 9005 (HB3): Typically used for high beams, providing higher brightness than H11 bulbs.
- Confirmation: It is essential to consult your car's owner's manual to ensure you have the correct bulb type for your vehicle's application.
