2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty Bulb Size Guide

Quick Reference Bulb Size Chart: 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty

LED vs. Halogen Upgrade Considerations

The 2020 F-250 was built during a transition period where both traditional halogen bulbs and modern, integrated LED units were common. This offers a great opportunity for upgrades, but it's crucial to do it right.

• Halogen vs. Factory LED: Base XL and XLT trims typically come with full halogen reflector headlight assemblies. Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum, and Limited trims feature the signature C-clamp style full-LED headlight and tail light assemblies. You cannot simply put an LED "bulb" into a factory LED housing; these are integrated modules that require full replacement of the assembly if they fail.
• CANBUS Errors: The F-250's computer, known as the Body Control Module (BCM), monitors the electrical current drawn by the lighting circuits. Halogen bulbs draw significantly more power than LEDs. When you install an LED bulb, the BCM may think the bulb is burned out due to the low power draw, triggering a "bulb out" warning on your dash and causing the light to flicker or not work at all (hyper-flashing on turn signals). To prevent this, you will need to install CANBUS-compatible or "error-free" LED bulbs, or wire in an appropriate resistor for each bulb you replace.
• Adapters and Fitment: For headlights, ensure your LED upgrade kit is designed for a reflector housing if that's what your truck has. Putting a generic LED bulb into a halogen reflector can create significant glare for oncoming drivers. Fog light upgrades are more straightforward, but always check for proper sealing to prevent moisture intrusion. For turn signals, you may need a specific 7443 or 3157 adapter harness that includes a built-in resistor.

How to Replace Each Bulb

Replacing bulbs on the 2020 F-250 is generally straightforward, requiring basic tools. Always wear gloves to prevent skin oils from touching the new bulb, which can cause premature failure.

• Headlights (Halogen): Access is through the engine bay. The low (H11) and high (9005) beams are behind dust covers on the back of the headlight assembly. Twist the cover off, then twist the bulb socket to remove it. Unclip the bulb and install the new one.
• Fog Lights: Access is usually gained from underneath the front bumper or by partially removing the fender liner. The H10/9145 bulb twists out of its housing.
• Tail Lights, Brake, Turn, and Reverse Lights: This is the easiest job. Lower the tailgate and remove the two 8mm bolts on the inside edge of the truck bed holding the tail light assembly in place. Carefully pull the entire assembly straight back to release the plastic retaining clips. Twist the required bulb socket from the back of the housing to access and replace the bulb.
• License Plate Lights: These small housings are above the license plate. Use a plastic trim tool or a small flathead screwdriver to gently pry the lens housing out. The 168/T10 bulb pulls straight out of the socket.
• Interior Dome/Map Lights: Use a plastic trim removal tool to gently pry down the clear lens cover of the overhead console. The bulbs can then be pulled straight out and replaced. Be gentle, as the plastic tabs can be brittle.

Common Lighting Issues for this Generation

While generally reliable, the 2017-2022 Super Duty generation has a few known lighting quirks:

• DRL Customization: Many owners use FORScan software (a powerful diagnostic tool for Ford vehicles) to customize lighting behavior, such as enabling "parking lights only" as DRLs or disabling the DRL function entirely. Be aware that the previous owner may have made such changes.
• Hyper-Flash: As mentioned, this is the most common issue after an LED upgrade on turn signals. A failed resistor or a non-CANBUS bulb is almost always the cause.
• Moisture in Headlights: Some owners of both halogen and factory LED units have reported moisture or condensation building up inside the headlight assemblies. If still under warranty, this is a dealer issue. Otherwise, the housing may need to be removed, dried out, and resealed.

Proper lighting is key to safety on the road and at the job site. Keeping your 2020 F-250's lights in working order ensures you can see and be seen.

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