Collection: Classic & Collectible Cars > Yellow (Retro) Bulbs

Yellow Headlights: A French Peculiarity

A Brief History: From 1936 to 1993, France was the only country in the world to mandate yellow headlights for all vehicles registered on its territory. This unique decree in Europe, introduced on the eve of World War II, initially aimed to distinguish French vehicles from foreign ones in case of conflict. Over the decades, yellow became a strong identifying marker of vintage French cars.

The obligation was abolished in 1993 during European harmonization — all new vehicles have since been equipped with white headlights. However, for collector vehicles, many owners wish to retain yellow bulbs to preserve period authenticity. This is perfectly legal for vehicles manufactured before 1993.

Selective Yellow Bulb vs. Yellow Filter

Two methods to achieve yellow lighting:

• Original Selective Yellow Bulb — the bulb's glass is directly tinted yellow. Clean optical filtration, authentic appearance, lifespan identical to a standard bulb. This is the best choice for a faithful restoration.
• Yellow Filter (colored film) — an adhesive plastic film placed on the headlight glass. Visually less clean, increased light loss, limited lifespan (plastic yellows or peels over time). To be avoided for serious restoration.

For vintage vehicle enthusiasts, the original yellow bulb is undoubtedly the right choice — true to the factory look and durable.

Compatibility and Available Bases

Selective yellow bulbs are available in the most common bases used on collector vehicles:

• Yellow H4 (P43t, 60/55W) — for collector cars equipped with H4 (from 1971). Renault 5, Peugeot 305, Citroën Visa, etc.
• Yellow H1 (P14.5s, 55W) — for high beams and old fog lights.
• Yellow H7 (PX26d, 55W) — for vehicles from the end of the yellow period (1990-1993).
• Yellow R2 (European Code) — for French vehicles before approximately 1985 (2CV, Renault 4, 4CV, Aronde…).

All these bulbs are standard halogens with yellow tinted glass — direct replacement installation, without modification to the headlight or socket.