2015 Tesla Model X Bulb Size Guide: Headlight, Tail, Fog, and Interior

When discussing the 2015 Tesla Model X (often referred to as the 2016 model year, as deliveries began in late 2015), it is important to understand that Tesla revolutionized automotive lighting by ditching traditional incandescent and halogen bulbs almost entirely. As an ASE-certified master technician, I frequently get questions from Tesla owners looking for replacement bulb sizes. The short answer? The Model X uses integrated LED technology for virtually all of its exterior and interior lighting.

If a light goes out on your Model X, you are generally looking at replacing the entire housing or assembly rather than a single bulb. Below is the breakdown of the lighting systems on the 2015 Tesla Model X.

Quick reference

Note: Because the Model X was designed as a premium, high-tech EV, there are no halogen or HID/projector trim-level variations. All 2015/2016 Model X vehicles come standard with full LED lighting.

LED vs halogen upgrade considerations

Usually, this section covers the complications of upgrading from halogen to LED, such as CANBUS errors, hyper-flashing, or the need for resistor adapters. However, because the 2015 Tesla Model X is fully LED straight from the factory, you will not need to worry about traditional upgrades.

If you are looking to customize your Model X's lighting (such as upgrading the puddle lights to project the Tesla logo, or adding brighter LED strips to the trunk/frunk), you must ensure that the aftermarket lights are compatible with Tesla’s 12V system. Tesla's onboard computer is highly sensitive to voltage changes. If an aftermarket LED draws too much or too little power, the vehicle's computer may cut power to that circuit to protect the system, resulting in a light that fails to turn on. Always source plug-and-play accessories specifically designed for the Model X to avoid tripping the vehicle's electronic fuses (eFuses).

How to replace each bulb

Since most of the lighting on the Model X consists of integrated LED assemblies, "replacing a bulb" usually means replacing the entire housing.

• Headlights (Low, High, DRL, Front Turn): If the headlight fails, you must replace the entire headlight assembly. This involves removing the front bumper cover. Due to the high voltage systems nearby and the calibration required for the auto-leveling systems, this is generally a job for a professional.
• Tail Lights, Brake, and Rear Turn Signals: These are also integrated into the rear body and liftgate housings. To replace a faulty rear light, the interior trunk trim must be removed to access the mounting nuts for the tail light assembly.
• Fog Lights: Located in the lower front bumper, these require removing the aerodynamic under-trays or the front bumper for access. Replace the whole LED pod if it fails.
• Interior Dome/Map Lights: The interior overhead lights are soldered into the roof control panels and are not serviceable as individual bulbs.
• Footwell, Puddle, Trunk, and Frunk Lights: These are the only truly "swappable" lights on the Model X. They are small rectangular LED modules that can be popped out with a plastic trim tool. Unplug the harness, plug in the new LED module, and snap it back into place.

Common lighting issues for this generation

While LEDs are designed to last the lifetime of the vehicle, the 2015/2016 Tesla Model X has a few well-documented lighting quirks:

1. Signature DRL Yellowing: Early Model X (and Model S) vehicles are notorious for the daytime running lights burning out or turning a yellowish-green color. This is caused by the LED chips overheating and degrading the plastic light guide. The only fix is to replace the entire headlight assembly.
2. Condensation in Tail Lights: It is very common to see water droplets and fog building up inside the rear tail light assemblies. While Tesla claims a certain amount of condensation is normal and will vent out, excessive water pooling can short out the LED board, necessitating a complete replacement.
3. Flickering Puddle Lights: The door puddle lights are exposed to the elements when the Falcon Wing doors and front doors open. Moisture can cause these small LED modules to flicker or fail completely. Fortunately, these are inexpensive and easy to replace.

Whether you need a full headlight assembly replaced and calibrated, or you're dealing with electrical issues related to your lighting, it's best to rely on experienced professionals who understand EV architecture. Find a trusted shop on Repairius.