Collection: Bulbs HB3 / HB4

HB3 and HB4: The bases of modern Asian headlights

HB3 (also called 9005) and HB4 (also called 9006) bases originate from the American SAE nomenclature. They are primarily found in Japanese or American vehicles from the 2000-2015 era: Nissan, Toyota, Honda, Ford, Hyundai, Kia, Chrysler, and certain BMW models.

Many buyers know the number (9005 or 9006) found in the manual, but search under "HB3" or "HB4" on French websites — both designations are correct and refer to exactly the same bulbs.

What is the difference between HB3 and HB4?

Essential difference to know:

• HB3 (9005) = 65W — high beams (main headlights). Illuminates only when high beams are activated. Base P20d.
• HB4 (9006) = 55W — low beams (dipped headlights). Illuminates during normal driving. Base P22d.

The two bases have different positioning tabs — they are not physically interchangeable, which prevents incorrect installation. On a headlight equipped with these bases, you often find an HB4 (low beams) + HB3 (high beams) in two separate locations.

HB3 and HB4 in LED — what you need to know

HB3 and HB4 LED kits exist with very convincing results: 5,000-6,500K white light, 2 to 3 times brighter, 5 times longer lifespan. Precautions:

• For low beams (HB4): CE homologation required (marked "E") since 2023 — essential for technical inspection.
• For high beams (HB3): homologation is also recommended.
• Check Canbus compatibility — some Asian vehicles of these generations (Toyota, Honda) may generate OBD errors with non-Canbus LEDs.

Powerful HB3 / HB4 (Rally)

For vehicles used on closed circuits (rally, private track racing), high-power versions exist: HB3 90W or 100W, HB4 90W. These bulbs are forbidden on public roads — reserved for sports or off-road use. Do not install on a vehicle driven on public roads.

How to identify your HB3 or HB4 base

Reliable sources:

• The original bulb — the type is engraved on the base ("HB3" or "9005" / "HB4" or "9006")
• The vehicle manual (bulb chart by light)
• Search sites by license plate (Oscaro, Mister-Auto, AutoDoc)