Home » FAQ » Honda » What kind of bulb does a Honda Fit headlight take?

What kind of bulb does a Honda Fit headlight take?

It depends on the model year and market: most U.S.-market Honda Fits from 2007–2014 use a single 9003/H4 (HB2) dual‑filament halogen bulb per headlight, while 2015–2020 models use H11 for the low beam and 9005 (HB3) for the high beam. Some non-U.S. or later Jazz/Fit trims offer factory LED headlamps with no user-replaceable bulb, requiring replacement of the headlamp assembly if the light fails. Below is a detailed breakdown and tips to ensure you get the correct part.

Bulb types by model year (U.S.-market)

The following guide summarizes the standard headlight bulb types fitted to U.S.-spec Honda Fit models by generation. Always verify against your vehicle’s owner’s manual or VIN, because trim differences and regional equipment can change the specification.

  • 2007–2014: 9003 / H4 / HB2 (dual-filament halogen). One bulb per side serves both low and high beams.
  • 2015–2020: Low beam H11 (halogen), High beam 9005 / HB3 (halogen). Daytime running lights typically use the high-beam circuit at reduced intensity.
  • Select non-U.S. Honda Jazz/Fit trims (varies by market and year): Factory LED headlamps with integrated LED modules; no separate “bulb” to replace.

If your vehicle has aftermarket headlamp housings or regional equipment differences, the bulb type may differ from the above, so confirm before purchasing.

How to confirm your bulb type

Because headlamp equipment can vary with trim, region, or prior modifications, use the steps below to verify the exact bulb your car requires.

  • Check the owner’s manual under “Lights” or “Specifications” for the headlight bulb codes.
  • Look at the back of the headlamp: many housings or connectors are labeled with the bulb type (e.g., H11, 9005, H4).
  • Use a parts catalog or dealership lookup with your VIN to confirm the factory specification.
  • Compare the removed bulb’s base and connector keying to the replacement; bulb families are not always interchangeable.

Verifying before purchase helps avoid returns and ensures proper fit, beam pattern, and safety.

Installation notes and safety tips

Proper handling and installation extend bulb life and maintain headlight performance. Keep the following best practices in mind.

  • Avoid touching the glass of halogen bulbs; skin oils can cause hot spots and early failure. Use gloves or the bulb’s packaging.
  • Replace bulbs in pairs for consistent brightness and color temperature across both headlights.
  • Ensure the rubber dust cap/seal is properly seated to prevent moisture intrusion.
  • After installation, check and adjust headlight aim as needed to preserve visibility and avoid glare to other drivers.
  • Be cautious with LED/HID retrofit kits in halogen housings; many are not road-legal and can produce unsafe glare or poor beam focus.

Taking a few extra minutes during installation can preserve safety and prolong the life of your lighting components.

Common part numbers and equivalents

Bulb naming can vary by brand and catalog. These equivalency notes can help you find compatible parts when shopping.

  • 9003, H4, and HB2 refer to the same dual‑filament halogen bulb type used on many 2007–2014 Fits.
  • 9005 and HB3 are equivalent high-beam bulbs used on 2015–2020 Fits.
  • H11 is the common low-beam bulb for 2015–2020 Fits; H8 and H9 are related but are not direct substitutes without modifications and may not be legal.

Match the exact code specified for your vehicle to ensure proper fitment, legality, and light output.

Summary

For most U.S. Honda Fits, headlight bulbs are 9003/H4 (2007–2014, dual‑filament) or H11 low beam and 9005 high beam (2015–2020). Some non-U.S. Jazz/Fit models use integrated LED headlamps with no replaceable bulb. Always confirm with your owner’s manual or VIN to account for trim and regional differences.

Is a H11 bulb high or low beam?

An H11 bulb is primarily a low beam and fog light bulb, not a high beam bulb. H11 bulbs provide a focused beam pattern for visibility without dazzling oncoming drivers. While H11 bulbs are not designed for high-beam sockets, some vehicles may use H11 bulbs for both low and high beams, though high-beam specific bulbs like the 9005 (HB3) or H9 offer higher brightness for high-beam use.
 
Key characteristics of H11 bulbs: 

  • Purpose: Low-beam headlights and fog lights.
  • Beam Pattern: Creates a wide, balanced beam for improved visibility.
  • Brightness: Produces around 1350-1450 lumens (for halogen).
  • Wattage (Halogen): Typically 55 watts.

Why H11s are for low beams:

  • Their design provides a focused, controlled beam to avoid blinding other drivers. 
  • They are often used in conjunction with a different, brighter bulb for high beams. 

High beam alternatives:

  • For high beams, bulbs like the 9005 (HB3) or H9 offer higher brightness levels. 
  • While H11s are not high beams, some vehicles can be equipped with H11 bulbs for both functions, so always check your vehicle’s manual. 

What kind of headlight bulb does a 2017 Honda Fit take?

H4, 9003, dual beam.

What does a 7443 bulb fit?

A 7443 bulb is compatible with sockets designed for 7443 and 7440 bulbs, though a 7440 bulb will not work in a 7443 socket. However, compatibility isn’t guaranteed and can be affected by factors like the specific vehicle’s socket design (standard or CK) or the presence of a lighting control module, requiring a check of the owner’s manual before purchasing. Common compatible bulb numbers include 7443LL, 7440, 992, T20, W21W, and WY21W, though some are single-filament and will only work in the 7440 function of a dual-filament 7443 socket. 
Key Considerations for 7443 Compatibility

  • Dual vs. Single Filament: The 7443 is a dual-filament bulb that serves two functions, such as parking and brake lights or turn and parking lights. A 7440 is a single-filament bulb. 
  • Socket Compatibility: While the 7443 and 7440 have the same physical size, their electrical functions differ. A 7443 bulb can work in a 7440 socket, but a 7440 bulb cannot function in a 7443 socket. 
  • Socket Type (Standard vs. CK): Some vehicles use CK sockets, which are a different design that can affect compatibility. Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual to determine the correct socket type before purchasing. 
  • CANBUS and Control Modules: Some vehicles have CANBUS (Controller Area Network Bus) systems that monitor bulb function. If your car has a lighting control module that uses the same bulb for multiple functions (like a turn signal and brake light), a standard LED bulb may not work correctly. 
  • Cross-Reference Numbers: Look for bulbs with cross-reference numbers such as 7443LL, 7440, 992, T20, W21W, and WY21W, but always verify they are dual-filament if your application requires it. 

How to Ensure Compatibility

  1. 1. Check Your Owner’s Manual: Your vehicle’s owner’s manual is the best source for identifying the correct bulb type and specifications. 
  2. 2. Inspect the Socket: Examine your vehicle’s bulb socket to confirm its design. 
  3. 3. Understand Your Application: Determine if the socket uses a single- or dual-filament bulb and how many functions it controls. 
  4. 4. Consider Adapters: If you’re installing LED bulbs and encounter issues like hyperflashing or error messages, you may need to use aftermarket resistors or adapters. 

How much is a headlight bulb for a Honda Fit?

The average cost for a Honda Fit Headlight Bulb Replacement is between $65 and $81. Labor costs are estimated between $33 and $49 while parts are typically priced around $32.

T P Auto Repair

Serving San Diego since 1984, T P Auto Repair is an ASE-certified NAPA AutoCare Center and Star Smog Check Station. Known for honest service and quality repairs, we help drivers with everything from routine maintenance to advanced diagnostics.

Leave a Comment