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2011-2015 Ford Explorer | Bulb Size Chart (Headlights, Fogs & More)

 

Last updated: November 2, 2022

In this guide, we'll help you quickly and easily find the replacement bulb size(s) you need for your 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2015 Ford Explorer (5th Generation). From the headlights to the brake lights and everything in between.

This guide covers all sub-models and trims (Base, Limited, Sport, and XLT). During these 4 years, the Explorer came with a standard halogen and an upgraded HID option for the headlights. We make the distinction below.

We organized all the bulbs into 5 lighting categories with easy-to-read charts. Select any of the categories below to jump right to the bulb size chart you're looking for:

💡 TIP: Did you know that you can upgrade your headlight and fog light bulbs on your Ford Explorer? Get up to 300% more light with LED or HID bulbs. Learn more below the size charts!️⭐ NOTE: This guide only applies to 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2015 Explorer with the original factory (OEM) assemblies. If you have aftermarket headlights, fog lights, brake lights, etc. you will need different bulb sizes as per the manufacturer's specifications.🎯 ACCURACY: If you notice any inaccuracies or missing information, please let us know so we can update the guide. Providing accurate and complete information is important to us and our readers. 🚧 IMPORTANT: Automotive light bulbs are vehicle-specific! Follow this guide, review your owner's manual or contact your dealership to make sure you're buying the right bulbs to avoid fitment issues.

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2011 to 2015 Ford Explorer - Headlight Bulb Sizes (Low & High Beam)

Position Bulb Type Upgrade Avail.
Low + Beam Headlights 9005 Halogen Yes
Low + Beam Headlights D3S* HID No
  • Year Range 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2015.
  • Not sure about the difference between headlight low beams and high beams? Learn More.

*For models with factory HID headlights

2011 to 2015 Ford Explorer - Fog Light Bulb Sizes

Position Bulb Type Upgrade Avail.
Fog Light H11 Halogen Yes
  • Year Range 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2015.

2011 to 2015 Ford Explorer - Brake & Tail Lights Bulb Sizes

Position Bulb Type Upgrade Avail.
Brake Light (Rear) LED LED No
Brake Light (High-Mounted) LED LED No
Reverse Light 7440 (7443) Halogen Yes
Tail Light LED LED No
  • Year Range 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2015.
  • Factory LED lights cannot be changed or upgraded. Please visit an authorized dealer for service.

2011 to 2015 Ford Explorer - Turn Signal & Marker Bulb Sizes

Position Bulb Type Upgrade Avail.
Turn Signal Bulb (Front) 3156 (3157) Halogen Yes
Turn Signal Bulb (Rear) 7440 (7443) Halogen Yes
Parking Light 3156 (3157) Halogen Yes
Side Marker (Front) 194 (168) Halogen Yes
Side Marker (rear) LED LED No
  • Year Range 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2015.
  • Factory LED lights cannot be changed or upgraded. Please visit an authorized dealer for service.

2011 to 2015 Ford Explorer - All Other Bulb Sizes

Position Bulb Type Upgrade Avail.
Dome Light LED LED No
Courtesy Light 194 (168) Halogen Yes
License Plate Light 194 (168) Halogen Yes
Map Light 194 (168) Halogen Yes
Trunk/Cargo Light LED LED No
  • Year Range 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2015.
  • Factory LED lights cannot be changed or upgraded. Please visit an authorized dealer for service.

Ford Explorer LED/HID Bulb Size Summary

Year Range 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015
Low + Beam Headlights 9005 (HB3)
Low + Beam Headlights* D3s (D3)
Fog Light H11 (H8/H9)
Reverse Light 7440 (7443)
Turn Signal Bulb (Front) 3156 (3157)
Turn Signal Bulb (Rear) 7440 (7443)
Parking Light 3156 (3157)
Side Marker (Front) 194 (168)
Courtesy Light 194 (168)
License Plate Light 194 (168)
Map Light 194 (168)
  • All trims: Base, Limited, Sport, and XLT.

*For models with factory HID headlights

Upgrade Your Headlight Bulbs On Your 2011-2015 Ford Explorer

Looking to improve the lights on your 2011 to 2015 Ford Explorer with better, brighter, and more durable lighting? At XenonPro.com, we developed LED and HID bulbs that fit right into your vehicle. With the same design and plugs, our bulbs are incredibly easy to install and will improve your light output by up to 300%.Ford Explorer with Halogen

Ford Explorer with HID

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Headlight Bulb Replacement Video - 2011-2015 Ford Explorer (5th Generation)

Check out this super helpful video on how to change your headlamp bulbs on your 2011 to 2015 Ford Explorer. You won't need any special tools, just a pair of latex gloves.

Headlight Assembly Replacement Video - 2011-2015 Ford Explorer (5th Generation)

Check out this super helpful video on how to change your headlamp assemblies on your 2011 to 2015 Ford Explorer. The process is the same for the model with factory HID headlights. You'll need the following tools:

  • Phillips head screwdriver
  • Flathead screwdriver
  • Trim removal tool
  • 5mm, 8mm, and 10mm socket, ratchet, and extension (or a drill)


Owner Manuals 2011 to 2015 Ford Explorer

Need more information about bulb sizes, how to change the bulbs, or simply need the owner's manual? Find it below:

FAQ

Can this guide be applied to a 2012, 2013, or 2014 Ford Explorer?

Yes. This guide applies to all sub-models and trims (Base, Limited, Sport, and XLT) for the 2011-2015 Ford Explorer.

What type of bulbs do you recommend for my 2011-2015 Ford Explorer?

If you do a lot of nighttime driving or have difficulty seeing at night, we recommend upgrading from halogen to either LED or HID bulbs. They will produce more light and last longer than replacement bulbs.Discover how you can put LED or HID bulbs in your factory headlights

Can I change the bulbs on my 2011-2015 Explorer myself?

Yes, so long as they are halogens. Changing halogen bulbs is quite easy for the most part. We strongly advise finding How-To videos online for the specific bulb(s) you wish to change and consult the Owner's Manual for additional help.If your vehicle has factory LEDs, you will need to visit your dealership to have them changed.

I purchased aftermarket assemblies for my Explorer, can I use this guide?

No. Aftermarket assemblies typically use different bulb sizes. Consult with the assembly manufacturer for the right bulb size(s).

Sources:

Disclaimer: The information contained on this page is provided free of charge to our visitors. It was prepared to the best of our abilities and with all the information available to us at the time of writing. We reserve the right to change, remove or update any information contained on this page at any time and without notice to improve its accuracy. The most reliable method to determine the bulb size is by pulling your actual bulb(s) and reading the part number indicated directly on the bulb. The information compiled on this page comes with no guarantees or warranties.

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