2015 Toyota Highlander — Bulb Sizes (Headlight, Tail, Fog)

Quick reference

Notes and trim differences:

• 2015 Highlander (LE, LE Plus, XLE, Limited) uses projector-style halogen H11 low beams and 9005 high beams. No OEM HID or full LED headlamps were offered in the US for 2015. Some trims feature an LED accent DRL strip within the headlamp; that accent is part of the assembly and not a replaceable bulb.
• Fog lights were standard on most trims above base; LE base may have blank fog bezels. Toyota lists H16 (low-wattage H11 type) for the fogs.
• Always confirm against your owner’s manual and the lamp base stamping on your vehicle, especially for Canada/overseas models which may vary.

LED vs halogen upgrade considerations

• Headlights (H11/9005): Drop-in LED bulbs can reduce power draw and increase perceived brightness, but beam pattern in a halogen projector/reflector may scatter and cause glare. Quality LED kits with proper focal position help, yet legality varies by state. HID retrofits are not recommended without projector swaps.
• DRL/high beam (9005): Because the 9005 also runs at reduced power as a DRL, some LED 9005s may flicker in DRL mode or throw warnings. Choose dual-intensity or DRL-compatible 9005 LEDs.
• Turn signals (7444NA front, 7440 rear): Converting to LED will usually cause hyperflash. The 2015 Highlander’s flasher is integrated in the body module, so you’ll need 6-ohm load resistors (one per turn circuit) or CANBUS anti-hyperflash LED bulbs. Mount resistors to metal away from plastic.
• Fog lights (H16): Use H16-specific LEDs (lower wattage/heat). Over-wattage H11 bulbs in H16 fog housings can overheat and discolor lenses.
• Interior/marker/license (194/168, DE3175): These typically accept LED replacements without errors. Pick warm-white for cabin comfort and ensure festoon length (31mm) matches.

How to replace each bulb

• Low beam (H11): Turn the wheel inward, remove a few clips from the fender liner for access, twist the H11 counterclockwise and pull out. Don’t touch halogen glass.
• High beam/DRL (9005): Access from behind the headlamp in the engine bay; twist counterclockwise. If upgrading to LED, secure drivers/heat-sinks away from moving parts.
• Fog light (H16): From underneath or by turning the wheel and pulling the liner back. Twist the bulb out of the fog housing. Verify O-ring seats properly to keep moisture out.
• Front turn (7444NA) and front side marker (194): Access at the rear of the headlamp; remove the socket, then pull the wedge bulb straight out.
• Rear turn (7440), brake/tail (7443), rear side marker (194): Open the liftgate, remove the two lamp screws, and pull the tail lamp straight rearward to release the body clips. Rotate the sockets to remove; replace bulbs as marked on the socket.
• Reverse (921): With the tail lamp off the vehicle, twist the reverse socket and replace the 921 wedge.
• License plate (194/168): Open the liftgate; from outside, gently pry the lens or access the socket from inside the garnish depending on sub-trim. Replace the wedge bulb and check seal.
• Interior map (194): Carefully pry the map light lens, pull the wedge bulb, and insert the new one. Test before reinstalling the lens.
• Interior dome (DE3175): Pry the lens at the notch, release the 31mm festoon, and install the new bulb observing polarity for LEDs.

Common lighting issues for this generation

• Condensation in headlamp or fog housings: Minor fogging after a wash can be normal; persistent moisture suggests a compromised seal or rear cap. Reseat caps and inspect vent tubes.
• Hyperflash after LED swaps: Normal when turn signal load drops. Add resistors or purpose-built anti-hyperflash LEDs.
• Heat discoloration of 9005 sockets/reflectors: Extended DRL/high-beam use with higher-wattage bulbs can brown the socket. Stick with OE wattage and quality parts.
• Fog light lens hazing/melt: Installing standard H11 high-watt bulbs into H16-rated fogs can overheat the lens. Use H16-specific or low-heat LEDs.
• Tailgate garnish moisture affecting license plate bulbs: The rear garnish can let moisture in, corroding 194 sockets. Replace the gasket or garnish and clean terminals.

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