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What Kind of Headlight Bulb a 2004 Honda CR‑V Uses

The 2004 Honda CR‑V uses 9006 (HB4) bulbs for the low beams and 9005 (HB3) bulbs for the high beams. These are standard halogen types on North American models. While this fitment covers the vast majority of 2004 CR‑V vehicles, owners should verify in the glovebox manual or on the back of the headlamp housing, especially if the vehicle has aftermarket headlights or is from a different market.

Fitment Details and Specifications

For most 2004 Honda CR‑V models sold in the U.S. and Canada, the headlight system uses separate bulbs for low and high beams. Below are the common specs you can expect.

  • Low beam: 9006 (HB4), typically 12V 55W, halogen
  • High beam: 9005 (HB3), typically 12V 65W, halogen

These bulb codes refer to the base and socket type, ensuring proper fit and beam pattern. If your CR‑V was imported or has European/Japanese domestic market headlamps, the bulb types could differ; always cross-check before purchasing.

How to Confirm Your Bulb Size

Even with standard fitment, verification helps avoid returns and ensures safe performance. Here are reliable ways to confirm the correct bulbs for your vehicle.

  • Check the owner’s manual under “Lights” or “Maintenance” for bulb specifications.
  • Look at the rear of the headlamp assembly; many housings have the bulb type molded or labeled near the socket.
  • Use reputable online parts lookups (by year/make/model) from brands like Sylvania or Philips, or your dealer’s parts catalog.
  • If your vehicle has aftermarket or projector housings, consult the manufacturer’s documentation—fitment may differ from OEM.

Confirming the size before purchasing ensures compatibility, proper beam aim, and legal compliance.

Replacement Tips

Swapping bulbs on the 2004 CR‑V is straightforward, but a few best practices will help you do it safely and correctly.

  • Turn off the engine and lights, and let the bulbs cool before handling.
  • Access the headlamp from the engine bay; twist the bulb socket counterclockwise to remove.
  • Avoid touching the glass of halogen bulbs with bare fingers; oils can shorten bulb life.
  • Replace bulbs in pairs to maintain even brightness and color.
  • After installation, check headlight aim and verify both low and high beams operate correctly.

Following these steps helps maximize bulb lifespan and ensures optimal visibility at night.

Upgrade Options and Legal Considerations

Many owners consider upgrades for better brightness or longevity. Keep these points in mind when choosing alternatives.

  • Premium halogen (e.g., +30/+60/+100) bulbs can increase perceived brightness but may have shorter lifespans.
  • LED retrofit bulbs exist for 9005/9006 sockets; performance depends on headlamp design. Some housings scatter light with LEDs, reducing road visibility and potentially causing glare.
  • HID conversions are generally not recommended for reflector housings and may be illegal without compliant projectors.
  • In Canada, DRLs may use the high-beam circuit at reduced voltage; LED retrofits can interfere with DRL function unless specifically designed for it.

Choose upgrades that preserve a sharp cutoff and compliant aim, and verify local regulations before switching from halogen to LED or HID.

When to Suspect a Different Bulb Type

Certain situations can indicate nonstandard bulb fitment in a 2004 CR‑V.

  • Aftermarket headlight assemblies or projector conversions installed by a previous owner
  • Imported vehicles or trims designed for non-North American markets
  • Evidence of rewiring or adapters behind the headlamp housing

If any of these apply, visually inspect the bulb base and consult the housing manufacturer to avoid incorrect purchases.

Bottom Line

For a 2004 Honda CR‑V with original North American-spec headlights, use 9006 (HB4) for low beams and 9005 (HB3) for high beams. Verify your setup if you have aftermarket housings or a non-U.S./Canada model to ensure safe, legal, and effective lighting.

Summary

The 2004 Honda CR‑V typically takes 9006 (HB4) low-beam and 9005 (HB3) high-beam halogen bulbs. Confirm via the owner’s manual or headlamp labeling, replace bulbs in pairs, avoid touching the glass, and be cautious with LED/HID retrofits due to beam pattern and legal issues, especially on vehicles with DRL systems.

What type of headlights does the Honda CRV have?

All CR-V trims feature light-emitting diode (LED) headlights.

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.

What headlights does a 2004 Honda CRV take?

H4, 9003, dual beam.

What headlights does a 2004 Honda Civic use?

2004 & 2005 Honda Civic – Headlight Bulb Sizes (Low & High Beam)

Position Bulb Type
Low Beam Headlights (dims) 9006 Halogen
High Beam Headlights (brights) 9005 Halogen

Sep 28, 2022

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