How to Check the Model and Specifications of Car Bulbs?
4 Answers
To check the model and specifications of car bulbs, follow these methods: 1. Examine the bulb removed from the vehicle, as the specific model number is usually marked at the base of the bulb. The headlight assembly also indicates the exact bulb model; 2. Refer to the vehicle maintenance manual and look for the consumable parts list. The replacement method for car bulbs is as follows: 1. Open the engine hood and locate the headlight cover behind the headlight assembly; 2. Unscrew the headlight cover; 3. Remove the lamp holder with the power cord, ensuring to hold the bulb with your hand during removal to prevent damage; 4. Release the retaining clip of the lamp holder to take out the bulb, then install the new bulb. When reinstalling the headlight cover, make sure it is tightly secured to protect the headlight from rain and dust, which could affect its lifespan.
Having driven for over a decade, I always check the markings on the original bulb when replacing them—model numbers like H4 or H7 are directly embossed on the metal or glass part. If the bulb is too old and the markings are illegible, I refer to the maintenance section in the last few pages of the owner's manual, which usually lists all bulb specifications for the vehicle. Bulb types vary significantly by location—for example, headlights and trunk lights may use completely different models, so never assume they're the same. If the manual is missing, you can look up the parts list for your car's make and year online or take a photo of the bulb socket and send it to the seller for confirmation. I often advise friends to unplug the power connector before replacing a bulb and to clean any rust from the socket to prevent poor contact. Lastly, when purchasing, remember that halogen and LED bulbs are not interchangeable, as mixing them can cause circuit damage.
We car enthusiasts usually use our phones to check bulb models for modifications. First, take a photo of the VIN, then scan it directly in the auto parts sections of JD.com or Tmall—the system automatically matches and recommends the right model. Alternatively, use the vehicle search function on the Osram official website by entering the brand, year, and engine displacement, and the original specifications pop up in three seconds. I always photograph the base code before removing the old bulb—for example, H11 bases have triangular marks, while 9005 bases feature a slotted design, easily distinguishable by eye. When shopping online, don’t just rely on product titles; click into the details page to verify voltage and wattage for accuracy. Last time I upgraded fog lights, I found the same H3 bulb came in 35W and 55W variants—wrong wattage can melt the socket. Remember, car lights fall into three categories: halogen, xenon, and LED, and their connectors are not interchangeable.
Last time my parking light went out, I simply flipped to the bulb specifications page in the owner's manual - straightforward and clear. If the manual isn't available, I'd call the 4S dealership, provide the vehicle model and year, and the customer service would find the bulb type within two minutes. Actually, you don't need to be car-savvy - just drive to an auto repair shop for bulb replacement and remember to ask the mechanic to show you the model code on the packaging. As a novice car owner like me, I discovered that bulbs for different positions have completely different specifications - for instance, the map light uses T10 while the brake light might be 1157. Now during every maintenance service, I ask the technician to check all vehicle bulbs and record their model numbers in my phone's memo app. When shopping online, I prioritize vehicle-specific series from major brands like Philips - this approach rarely leads to mistakes.
