When it comes to car light bulbs, choosing the right one can make a significant difference in your driving experience. Two popular bulb types that often cause confusion are H4 and 9003. While they may look similar, there are key differences between the two that car owners should be aware of.
H4 Bulb: What is it Used For?
The H4 bulb was initially designed for racecars and became popular in Europe. However, due to regulations requiring sealed headlamps, it was illegal to use in cars in the United States. Instead, H4 bulbs found widespread use in motorcycles. One of the unique features of the H4 bulb is that it has double filaments, which can cause blinding in traffic if not used correctly.
9003 Bulb: What is it Used For?
To address the restrictions on H4 bulbs, the 9003 or HB4 bulb was introduced. It is almost identical to the H4 bulb but has a more controlled output, making it legal for use in car headlamps. While some dealers may use the terms H4 and 9003 interchangeably, it is essential to understand the differences between the two bulbs.
H4 vs. 9003: Key Differences
While the H4 and 9003 bulbs may look similar, there are some critical differences between the two. The most noticeable difference is the base of the bulbs. Both bulb types have three prongs on their base, but the 9003 has equal-sized tabs, while the H4 has one of the bottom tabs shorter. This means that an H4 bulb will fit in both H4 and 9003 housings, but a 9003 bulb may not fit in an H4 housing.
Another difference between the two bulbs is their brightness. While both bulbs have a similar brightness level, some users report that the H4 bulb is slightly brighter than the 9003 bulb. Additionally, the price of the two bulbs may vary depending on where you buy them.
Related Queries:
- Is H4 and 9006 the same?
No, H4 and 9006 are not the same type of bulb. The H4 bulb has a double filament and three prongs, while the 9006 has a single filament and an L-shaped base.
- Are 9003 and H11 the same?
No, 9003 and H11 are not the same type of bulb. The 9003 bulb has a pronged base with three prongs, while the H11 has an L-shaped base.
- What is a 9003 headlight bulb?
The 9003 light bulb is a double filament bulb suitable for car headlights. It came into the market due to restrictions against the H4 bulb use in vehicles. Among its definitive features are a double filament and three-prong base.
- What does H4 mean in headlights?
H4 refers to a double filament bulb, which debuted in the 1970s, finding immense use in Europe, mostly on race cars. In the US, it is mostly used for motorcycles.
- Is 9004 the same as H4?
No, the 9004 bulb is not the same as H4. The main difference between the two is the base. The 9004 bulb has a different base than the H4 bulb, making them incompatible.
