2020 Honda Civic Bulb Sizes (Headlight, Tail, Fog)

Quick reference

The 2020 Honda Civic offers a range of lighting options across its various trim levels, from traditional halogen setups to modern, integrated LED systems. Understanding these differences is crucial when considering replacements or upgrades.

For many trims, especially the LX and Sport, halogen bulbs are standard for low beams (typically H11) and high beams (9005). Higher trims, such as the EX, EX-L, Si, and Touring, often feature integrated LED headlights for both low and high beams. These integrated LED units are not designed for simple bulb replacement; if a component fails, the entire headlight assembly may need to be replaced. Some models may also come with LED fog lights, though H8 or H11 halogen bulbs are also common.

Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) can vary significantly. Some trims use a 7443 halogen bulb, while others feature dedicated LED DRL strips. Front and rear turn signals are typically 7440 or 7443 halogen bulbs, though some premium trims might incorporate LED turn signals as part of the overall LED lighting package. Brake and tail lights commonly use 7443 halogen bulbs on lower trims, with LED versions found on higher trims. Reverse lights generally use a 7440 halogen bulb across most models.

License plate lights are usually 168 or 194 bulbs. Side marker lights, both front and rear, are commonly 194 bulbs. Interior lighting, including the dome light (DE3175) and map lights (175 or 194), typically uses halogen bulbs across all trims.

LED vs halogen upgrade considerations

Upgrading from halogen to LED bulbs in your 2020 Honda Civic can offer numerous benefits, including brighter light, a whiter color temperature, and longer lifespan. However, it's important to be aware of potential challenges.

CANBUS Errors: Modern vehicles like the 2020 Civic use a CANBUS (Controller Area Network Bus) system to monitor various electrical components, including lighting. Halogen bulbs draw more power than most LED alternatives. When you install LED bulbs, the lower power draw can be interpreted by the CANBUS system as a "bulb out" error, leading to flickering, inconsistent operation, or dashboard warning lights. To prevent this, many aftermarket LED bulbs are "CANBUS-ready" and include built-in resistors to mimic the power draw of a halogen bulb. If your chosen LED bulbs are not CANBUS-ready, you may need to purchase and install separate load resistors. These resistors generate heat, so proper placement away from plastic or wiring is essential.

Adapters Needed: While many LED bulbs are designed to be a direct fit, some may require specific adapters, especially for headlight applications, to properly seat the bulb and ensure a secure connection within the housing. Always check the product specifications and any included instructions. For LED low beams or high beams intended to replace halogen H11 or 9005 bulbs, ensure the fan or heatsink on the LED bulb has enough clearance within the headlight assembly.

Beam Pattern: The reflector or projector housing in your Civic's headlights is designed for the specific light output pattern of a halogen bulb. Installing LED bulbs can sometimes disrupt this pattern, leading to glare for oncoming drivers or a less focused beam of light. Choose high-quality LED bulbs that are designed to replicate the focal point of their halogen counterparts to maintain an optimal beam pattern.

How to replace each bulb

• Headlights (Low/High Beam): Access is usually from behind the headlight assembly in the engine bay. Twist and pull the old bulb out, disconnect the electrical connector, and connect the new bulb, ensuring it's properly seated before twisting it back into place. For integrated LED units, replacement is not a DIY task.
• Fog Lights: Often accessed from underneath the front bumper or by removing fender well liners. Twist the old bulb out, disconnect, and replace.
• DRL, Front Turn Signal: Similar to headlights, usually accessed from the engine bay. Twist out the socket, pull the bulb directly out, and push the new one in.
• Rear Turn Signal, Brake, Tail Light, Reverse Light: Access typically requires opening the trunk and removing trim panels or access covers to get to the rear of the tail light assembly. Twist out the socket, replace the bulb, and reinsert.
• License Plate Light: Usually requires removing a few screws from the clear lens cover above the license plate to access the bulb.
• Side Marker Light: Often accessed from inside the wheel well liner or by carefully prying the side marker lens off.
• Dome/Map Lights: Carefully pry off the clear lens cover with a plastic trim tool. The bulbs usually pull straight out or unclip.

Common lighting issues for this generation

Owners of the 2020 Honda Civic, particularly early in its generation, occasionally report common lighting-related issues:

• Premature Halogen Bulb Burnout: Some owners experience shorter lifespans for halogen bulbs, particularly headlights. This can be due to vibrations, voltage fluctuations, or oils from handling. Using high-quality replacement bulbs and avoiding touching the glass can help.
• Condensation in Headlight/Tail Light Assemblies: While minor condensation can be normal and evaporate, excessive moisture or standing water indicates a compromised seal, which can lead to bulb failure or electrical issues. This usually requires replacing the entire assembly.
• LED DRL or Tail Light Segment Failure: For trims with integrated LED lighting, individual segments or entire strips of DRLs or tail lights can sometimes fail. Since these are integrated, it often necessitates replacing the entire fixture.
• Flickering or Intermittent Operation After LED Upgrades: As mentioned, this is often a CANBUS incompatibility issue. Ensuring proper load resistors or CANBUS-ready bulbs are used is key.

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