BMW 3 Series E36 Bulb Sizes (1990–2000)
Quick answer: the BMW 3 Series E36 uses H1 for both the low and the high beam (Bosch headlights), and H1 for the fog lights.
Looking for the right headlight bulb for your BMW 3 Series E36 (1990–2000)? Below you will find the bulb sizes for the low beam, high beam, fog lights and parking lights.
This guide covers: 316i, 318i, 318is, 318tds, 320i, 323i, 325i, 325tds, 328i, M3 · Sedan, Touring, Coupe, Convertible, Compact (ti).
BMW 3 Series E36 bulb sizes
Bosch headlights
Low beam: H1
High beam: H1
Fog lights: H1
Parking / position lights: W5W (T10)
Hella headlights
Low beam: H7
High beam: H1
Fog lights: H1
Parking / position lights: W5W (T10)
Good to know
The E36 was fitted with two different headlight makers, and they use different low beam bulbs. Bosch headlights use H1 for both low and high beam, Hella headlights use H7 for the low beam.
Check the label on the back of your headlight (Bosch or Hella) before ordering – this is the most common reason for ordering the wrong bulb for an E36.
The E36 Compact uses its own headlight design – check the bulb before ordering.
LightsUp LED bulbs for the BMW 3 Series E36
Magic App Control LED bulbs – sizes for this car: H1, H7. colour temperature, brightness and strobe controlled from your phone, built-in CAN bus.
CORE150 LED bulbs – sizes for this car: H1, H7. very bright 6500K white, no app.
Compact 1:1 H7 LED bulbs (6000LM) – sizes for this car: H7. very compact, no external driver – fits tight headlight housings.
T10 / W5W LED bulbs – sizes for this car: W5W / T10. for parking and position lights.
Why upgrade to LED?
Much brighter, clean white light (around 6000K) instead of yellow halogen.
Instant full brightness and a much longer life than halogen bulbs.
Plug-and-play: the same base as your original H1 bulb, no cutting or wiring changes.
Built-in CAN bus on our App Control bulbs – no dashboard warnings on most cars.
FAQ
How do I know if I have Bosch or Hella headlights?
Open the bonnet and look at the back of the headlight housing – the maker's name is printed on it.
Can I mix Bosch and Hella headlights?
Yes, but then the two sides may need different bulbs, so check each side.
Check before you order
Headlights can differ by market (EU/US), trim, xenon or halogen, or because a previous owner fitted different lights. Please check the code printed on the base of your current bulb before ordering. Not sure? Send us a photo of your bulb to info@lightsup.pro and we will confirm the right size for you.
Other car? Use our Bulb Finder – pick your make, model and year and see the right bulbs in seconds.
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