What kind of headlight does a 2008 Honda Civic take?

Most 2008 Honda Civics sold in the U.S. and Canada—sedan and coupe, including Si and Hybrid—use an H11 halogen bulb for the low beam and a 9005 (HB3) halogen bulb for the high beam. There was no factory HID option for the 2008 model year in North America, and Canadian daytime running lights typically use the 9005 high beam at reduced intensity. If your Civic is a non‑North American hatchback (the European/Japanese market model), bulb types can differ, so verify by market or with your VIN.

Bulb types by function (North America, 2008 Civic)

The following list outlines the standard bulb specifications for the 2008 Honda Civic in the U.S. and Canada. These apply to most trims and body styles unless the headlight assemblies have been replaced with aftermarket units.

• Low beam headlight: H11, 12V 55W halogen
• High beam headlight: 9005 (HB3), 12V 60W halogen
• Daytime running lights (Canada): 9005 (HB3) high beam at reduced power
• Fog lights (if equipped): H11, 12V 55W halogen

These specifications cover the common factory setups. Always confirm by checking the markings on your existing bulb base or the owner’s manual to avoid ordering the wrong part.

Regional differences and exceptions

Depending on where your 2008 Civic was originally sold, the headlight bulb types can vary. This is especially true for the European/Japanese-market Civic hatchback, which uses a different headlamp design from the North American sedan/coupe.

• Europe/Asia (Civic hatchback): Often uses H1 or H7 bulbs (varies by market and trim).
• Aftermarket headlamp assemblies: Some projector or custom housings require different bulb bases (e.g., H1/H7) or include integrated LEDs.
• Previous owner modifications: HID or LED retrofit kits may have changed the required socket type.

If your vehicle is an import or has non-OEM headlights, visually inspect the bulb base or consult the assembly’s documentation to determine the correct type.

Choosing halogen, LED, or HID

While the Civic was designed for halogen bulbs, many owners consider LED or HID upgrades. It’s important to balance brightness, beam pattern, legality, and compatibility with daytime running lights and CANBUS systems.

• Halogen (H11/9005): OEM-correct, reliable beam pattern; options include long-life or higher-output (+% brightness) variants.
• LED retrofit bulbs (H11/9005): Can be brighter and whiter; choose models that maintain proper focus and cutoff in reflector housings and verify street-legality in your area.
• HID kits: Not recommended in halogen reflector housings due to glare; proper HID use requires purpose-built projector housings.
• DRL considerations: Some LED bulbs may flicker in DRL mode or trigger warnings; look for DRL-compatible designs.

For best safety and compliance, use high-quality bulbs that preserve the headlight’s designed beam pattern and meet local regulations.

Replacement tips

Swapping headlight bulbs on a 2008 Civic is a moderate DIY task. The steps below help ensure a clean, safe install and a properly aimed beam.

1. Turn off the car and lights; disconnect the battery negative terminal if desired for safety.
2. Access the bulb from behind the headlight (engine bay access; wheel-well access may help on the passenger side).
3. Unplug the connector, twist the bulb counterclockwise, and remove it.
4. Install the new bulb without touching the glass; align tabs and twist clockwise to lock.
5. Reconnect the plug, test low/high beams, and verify beam aim on a flat surface.

If one bulb has failed, consider replacing bulbs in pairs to keep brightness and color consistent across both headlights.

Specs and part notes

These details can help you choose replacements and avoid common pitfalls when buying online or at a parts store.

• H11 low beam: 12V, 55W; common variants include long-life, whiter color (e.g., 4000–5000K), or higher-output (+% brightness).
• 9005 (HB3) high beam: 12V, 60W; ensure standard base, not 9005XS (straight base) unless specified.
• Brand suggestions: Major makers like Philips, Sylvania, Koito, and Osram provide reliable, DOT-compliant options.
• Avoid touching the glass: Oils can shorten bulb life; use gloves or a clean tissue.

Sticking with reputable brands and correct wattage helps maintain visibility and reduce the risk of melting connectors or housings.

How to verify for your specific car

Although the above fitments are standard for North American 2008 Civics, verifying for your exact vehicle is quick and prevents returns or downtime.

• Owner’s manual: Check the “Bulbs”/“Specifications” section for headlamp bulb types.
• Honda parts catalog or dealer: Provide your VIN to confirm exact fitment.
• Reputable online bulb guides: Cross-check with fitment tools from major bulb manufacturers.
• Visual inspection: Read the bulb type stamped on your current bulb base.

Any of these methods will confirm whether your car uses the standard H11/9005 combo or a different setup due to regional spec or aftermarket parts.

Summary

For a 2008 Honda Civic sold in the U.S. or Canada, the headlight bulbs are H11 for the low beams and 9005 (HB3) for the high beams, with no factory HID option. Canadian DRLs typically use the 9005 at reduced intensity, and fog lights (if equipped) are H11. If your Civic is a non‑North American model or has aftermarket headlamps, verify the bulb type by manual, VIN, or direct inspection.

Does the H11 fit a Honda Civic?

The 9005 high beam H11 low beam H11 fog light halogen headlight bulbs combo kit are fully compatible with Honda Civic 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020.

What kind of headlight bulb does a 2008 Honda Fit take?

The headlight bulbs for a 2008 Honda Fit are H4 (also known as 9003 or HB2). These bulbs are used for both high and low beam functionality.

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.

How to change headlight bulb in 2008 Honda Civic?

Hey it’s Alex from carp parts.com. For great content our best price and fast shipping download the car parts.com.