H11 vs. 9005: Which Headlight Bulb Do You Need?

You need the bulb that matches your vehicle’s socket and lighting function: most low-beam or fog light applications use H11, while most high-beam/DRL applications use 9005 (also labeled HB3). They are not interchangeable. Confirm by checking your owner’s manual, the code printed on the existing bulb, or a VIN-based fitment lookup.

What These Codes Mean

H11 and 9005 are standardized automotive bulb types with different bases, connectors, and intended uses. H11 is commonly specified for low beams and fog lights, whereas 9005 (HB3) is typically used for high beams and, in many vehicles, daytime running lights (DRLs). Because the bases and pinouts differ, installing the wrong type generally won’t fit and can compromise safety and legality.

Key Differences at a Glance

The following points explain how H11 and 9005 differ in function, fitment, and performance so you can match the bulb to your vehicle’s requirements.

• Intended use: H11 is usually low beam or fog; 9005 (HB3) is usually high beam and sometimes DRL.
• Base/connector: H11 uses a PGJ19-2 base with a two-pin L-shaped connector; 9005 uses a P20d base with a 90-degree HB3 connector. They do not plug into each other.
• Power/output (typical halogen): H11 ≈ 12V 55W, ~1250 lm; 9005 ≈ 12V 60W, ~1700 lm. Exact figures vary by brand and “+output” variants.
• Beam pattern: Each bulb/housing pair is engineered for a specific beam pattern; using the wrong bulb can scatter light and reduce visibility.
• Cross-labels: 9005 is also labeled HB3. H11 remains H11; related family types include H8/H9/H16 with similar but not identical bases.
• Interchangeability: Not interchangeable without unsafe modifications. Choose exactly what your vehicle specifies.
• Single-beam only: Both are single-beam types. If your vehicle uses one bulb for both high and low, you likely need a dual-filament bulb (e.g., H4/9003 or 9007), not H11 or 9005.

In short, the bulb type is tied to the housing and connector your car was designed for, so matching the exact specification is essential for proper fit and performance.

How to Confirm What Your Car Uses

Use these checks to be certain before you buy or install a bulb.

1. Owner’s manual: Look up the bulb type for low beam, high beam, fog light, and DRL; many cars specify H11 for low/fog and 9005 for high.
2. Read the existing bulb: Remove the bulb and look for “H11” or “9005/HB3” printed on the base.
3. VIN lookup: Use a reputable parts catalog or the automaker’s site to check fitment by VIN or exact year/make/model/trim.
4. Connector shape: Compare the socket and locking tabs; H11 and 9005 shapes are visibly different.
5. Know your system: If your car uses one bulb for high/low, you need a dual-filament type (e.g., H4/9003, 9007, H13), not H11/9005.
6. Projector vs. reflector: Stick to the factory-specified bulb type for your housing; swapping types can distort the beam.
7. Electrical rating: Ensure the wattage/thermal load matches what the circuit and housing are designed to handle.

Completing these checks will confirm the correct bulb, prevent returns, and help you avoid lighting or electrical problems.

Legal and Safety Notes (2025)

Before choosing halogen or LED replacements, consider the following compliance and safety factors.

• Do not force-fit or use adapters to make one type fit another; this can damage wiring and mis-aim the beam.
• LED retrofits: In the U.S., most LED “bulb-only” replacements for halogen headlamp housings are not street-legal under federal rules unless the entire assembly is certified; they may be marked “for off-road use only.”
• Europe and other regions: Some ECE-approved LED retrofits exist for specific bulb types and vehicles, but legality varies by country—verify local regulations.
• CAN bus/DRL considerations: Vehicles with bulb-out detection or PWM DRLs may need CAN bus-compatible bulbs or additional modules to prevent flicker or warnings.
• Aim and glare: After any headlamp service, check and adjust aim per the manual to avoid glare and ensure visibility.
• Heat management: Higher-output halogens or some LEDs can increase heat; ensure your housing supports the thermal load.

Following these guidelines helps maintain road legality, avoid dashboard errors, and ensure safe night driving.

Common Real-World Scenarios

These examples illustrate how the two bulb types are typically used across vehicles.

• Separate low and high beams: Many cars use H11 for low beams and 9005 for high beams in separate housings.
• High beam as DRL: Some models run the 9005 high beam at reduced power for DRL; replacement must be compatible with PWM control.
• Fog lights: H11 is common in fogs; check your manual—some trims use H16 or H8 instead.
• Combo kits labeled “H11/9005”: Marketing shorthand doesn’t mean they’re interchangeable; each side must match its socket.

If your situation matches one of these, you likely need H11 for low/fog and 9005 for high/DRL, but always verify against your specific vehicle data.

Quick Reference Specs

These typical specs can help you compare, though exact values vary by brand and model.

• H11: Single-beam; base PGJ19-2; ~12V 55W; around 1250 lm (standard halogen); commonly low beam/fog.
• 9005 (HB3): Single-beam; base P20d; ~12V 60W; around 1700 lm (standard halogen); commonly high beam/DRL.

Use these benchmarks as general guidance, and rely on your vehicle specification for the final decision.

Bottom Line

If you’re replacing a low-beam or fog light on most vehicles, you likely need H11; for a high beam/DRL, you likely need 9005 (HB3). They are different, not interchangeable, and must match your car’s exact specification. Confirm via the owner’s manual, the marking on the existing bulb, or a VIN-based fitment tool to be sure.

Summary

H11 and 9005 serve different roles and use different connectors. H11 is typically for low beams and fog lights; 9005 (HB3) is typically for high beams and DRLs. They are not interchangeable. Verify the correct type through your manual, bulb markings, or a trusted fitment lookup, and be mindful of legal and safety considerations if choosing LED replacements.

Can you use 9005 instead of H11?

No, you cannot use a 9005 bulb instead of an H11, or vice versa, because they have fundamentally different electrical connectors and bases, making them physically incompatible. The 9005 (also known as HB3) bulb is typically used for high beams and has a P20d base, while the H11 is commonly used for low beams or fog lights and has a different PGJ19-2 base with smaller tabs. Attempting to force one into the other’s socket will result in improper fitting and potential damage. 
Key Differences

• Base Design: The most significant difference is the design of the bulb’s base and electrical connector. H11 uses a PGJ19-2 base, while 9005 uses a P20d base. 
• Application: 9005 bulbs are designed for high beams, providing more powerful illumination for long distances, whereas H11 bulbs are used for low beams or fog lights, offering adequate light for general driving without dazzling other drivers. 
• Wattage: Standard 9005 bulbs have a slightly higher wattage (65W) compared to standard H11 bulbs (55W). 
• Electrical Connector: The tabs on an H11 connector are smaller than those on a 9005 (HB3) connector. 

Can you use H11 for high beams?

No, H11 bulbs are not generally used for high beams. They are typically designed for low beam or fog light applications due to their beam pattern, which is optimized for illuminating the road ahead without causing glare for oncoming traffic. High beams, on the other hand, require a more powerful and focused light to illuminate a wider area at a greater distance. 
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

• H11 Bulbs: H11 bulbs are designed for low beam or fog light use, providing a wide, focused beam of light. They are commonly used in the low beam or fog light positions of many vehicles. 
• High Beam Bulbs: High beam bulbs, like the 9005 (HB3) or 9006 (HB4), are designed to project light further and wider than low beam bulbs, providing maximum visibility for nighttime driving. 
• Beam Pattern: H11 bulbs have a specific beam pattern that is intended to illuminate the road in front of the vehicle without causing excessive glare to other drivers. High beam bulbs have a different pattern designed to throw light further down the road. 
• Wattage and Brightness: While H11 and 9005/HB3 bulbs may have similar wattage (e.g., 55W), the higher intensity and focus of the 9005/HB3 bulb make it more suitable for high beam applications, according to XenonPro. 
• Compatibility: H11 and 9005/HB3 bulbs have different base types and connectors, making them incompatible with each other. Attempting to use an H11 bulb in a high beam socket designed for a 9005/HB3 bulb is not recommended. 

Can I use 9005 instead of H11 on Reddit?

Your car uses both, the H11 is the low beam bulb, and 9005 is the high beam bulb.

Do H11 and 9005 have the same connector?

You cannot fit a 9005 (HB3) into an H11 headlight. You also cannot fit an H11 into a 9005 (HB3) headlight. As explained in previous sections, each bulb has its unique locking tabs, plugs, and size which make them incompatible and not interchangeable.