What headlights does a 2004 Honda Civic use?
Most 2004 Honda Civic sedans, coupes, hybrids, and GX models use 9006 (HB4) bulbs for the low beams and 9005 (HB3) bulbs for the high beams. The 2004 Civic Si hatchback uses a single dual‑filament H4 (also labeled 9003/HB2) bulb that serves as both low and high beam. Below is a detailed breakdown and guidance on verifying and replacing the correct bulbs for your specific trim and market.
Contents
Factory bulb types by body style
Honda fitted different headlamp units depending on the Civic’s body style and trim for the 2004 model year (7th generation). Use the following guide to match your car to the correct bulb type.
- Sedan (DX, LX, EX), Coupe (DX, LX, EX), Hybrid, and GX: Low beam 9006 (HB4); High beam 9005 (HB3)
- Si hatchback (EP3): H4 (9003/HB2) dual‑filament for combined low and high beam
- Markets outside North America: Some export sedans/coupes may use H4 dual‑filament; verify locally
These specifications reflect the original halogen reflector headlamp designs Honda used for the 2004 model year. U.S. and Canadian models did not come with factory HID or LED headlights.
Wattage, technology, and compatibility
The 2004 Civic’s factory headlights are halogen. Typical ratings are approximately 55W for 9006 low beams and 65W for 9005 high beams, while H4 dual‑filament bulbs are usually around 55/60W. Daytime running lights (where equipped, e.g., Canada) use the same bulbs through reduced‑voltage operation; they do not change bulb type. Using the specified base types (9006, 9005, or H4) is essential to maintain proper fitment and beam pattern.
How to confirm your exact bulb
If you’re unsure which headlamps your Civic has, a quick check can confirm the correct bulb type before you buy replacements.
- Check the owner’s manual: Look in the “Maintenance” or “Lights” section for headlight bulb specifications.
- Inspect the bulb: The base is usually stamped with 9006, 9005, or H4/9003/HB2.
- Identify your trim and body: Si hatchbacks use a single H4 bulb; sedans/coupes (and Hybrid/GX) typically use separate 9006 low and 9005 high bulbs.
- Look up by VIN: A dealer or reputable parts catalog can confirm bulb type from your vehicle’s VIN.
Confirming beforehand prevents returns and ensures you get the correct parts for your specific headlamp assembly.
Replacement and upgrade options
Direct halogen replacements
For plug‑and‑play swaps that preserve the factory beam pattern and legality, choose high‑quality halogen bulbs in the original base type.
- Long‑life halogens: Last longer, slightly less bright than standard.
- Enhanced‑brightness halogens: Brighter, whiter light; shorter lifespan.
- OEM‑equivalent halogens: Balanced lifespan and output, typically the best value.
Stick to the original wattage to avoid wiring or housing damage and to maintain proper aim and cutoff.
LED/HID conversions: what to know
Aftermarket LED or HID kits exist for 9005/9006/H4 sockets, but they come with important considerations for performance and legality.
- Beam pattern: Many drop‑in kits scatter light or cause glare in halogen reflectors, reducing road safety.
- Legality: Conversions may be restricted or illegal for on‑road use in some regions unless paired with compliant housings.
- Electrical load: Some vehicles may flicker or throw warnings; resistors or drivers can be needed.
- Best practice: If upgrading, use complete, road‑legal headlamp assemblies designed for LED/HID, not just bulbs.
When in doubt, quality halogen replacements provide the most reliable, compliant results for a 2004 Civic’s stock housings.
Basic replacement tips and aiming
Replacing bulbs on a 2004 Civic is straightforward but benefits from a few best practices to ensure longevity and proper visibility.
- Switch off the car and allow the headlamp to cool.
- Access the bulb from behind the headlight; twist the connector counterclockwise to remove.
- Avoid touching the glass; use gloves or a clean tissue when installing.
- Seat the bulb fully and secure the retainer; reconnect the wiring.
- Test both beams; re-aim headlights against a flat wall if needed using the adjusters.
Correct installation and aim help maintain the designed cutoff, reducing glare to oncoming traffic and improving your night visibility.
Frequently confused parts
Headlight components are often mixed up with nearby bulbs. Here’s what’s commonly mistaken on the 2004 Civic.
- Parking/position bulbs: Small wedge bulbs near the headlight; not the main headlight bulbs.
- Front turn signals: Amber bulbs (often 7440/7440A) located in the same headlamp housing.
- Fog lights (if equipped): Separate bulbs and housings; bulb type varies by accessory kit and market.
Knowing which lamp you’re replacing prevents buying the wrong part and ensures the correct beam is restored.
Sources and references
These specifications align with Honda’s documentation and widely referenced parts catalogs for the 2004 Civic lineup.
- Honda owner’s manuals for 2004 Civic trims (sedan/coupe, Hybrid, Si).
- Major bulb fitment guides from OEM and aftermarket suppliers covering 2001–2005 Civics.
- Dealer and VIN-based parts lookup for market-specific variations.
If there’s any uncertainty, your local Honda dealer or a trusted parts retailer can confirm fitment for your exact vehicle and market.
Summary
For a 2004 Honda Civic, most sedans, coupes, Hybrids, and GX models use 9006 (HB4) low-beam and 9005 (HB3) high-beam halogen bulbs, while the Si hatchback uses an H4 (9003/HB2) dual‑filament bulb for both beams. Verify by trim, manual, or VIN before purchasing, and choose quality halogen replacements to maintain safe, legal performance in the stock reflector housings.
What car uses 9006 headlights?
Here are some common car makes and models that use 9006 bulbs: Toyota Camry、Honda Accord、Nissan Altima、Ford Mustang、Chevrolet Silverado、BMW 3 Series、Volkswagen Passat. These are just some examples, in fact there are many other models that also use 9006 bulbs.
What headlights does the Honda Civic have?
For Honda Civic 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 Light Bulbs High Performance Halogen Headlight Bulbs 9005 High Beam+H11 Low Beam, Super Bright Front Light Car Replacement Bulb Combo, 4PCS.
What kind of headlight bulb for 2004 Honda Civic?
Headlight Bulbs Compatible With Honda Civic 2004-2015, 9005 High Beam + 9006 Low Beam Halogen Light Bulbs, Super Bright 6000K White, Plug and Play, Pack of 4.
How to replace a 2004 Honda Civic headlight?
Out. This is happening right there as I bang the camera. And pull it. Out. And then what you want to do is unplug it from the plug.