1156 and 1157 bulbs are some of the most common automotive lights, used in backup lights, brake lights/tail lights, and DRLs. Are they the same, which one is brighter, and will they fit your vehicle? This guide covers everything you need to know about 1156 and 1157 bulbs—from compatibility and base type to brightness, lifespan, and why upgrading to LEDs can be a smart choice. Let’s dive in!

1156 vs 1157 bulb guide

What Is the Compatibility of 1156 and 1157 Bulbs?

1156 and 1157 bulbs are widely used in vehicles from Honda, Toyota, Lexus, Kia, Subaru, Chrysler, VW, and many others. While they might look similar, these two bulbs are not the same, they have different bases, cross-reference numbers, and compatibility.

The 1156 bulb is cross-referenced with P21W, BA15S, S25, S-25, 1073, 1093, 1129, 1141, 1147, 1159, 1259, 1295, 1383, 1459, 1619, 1651, 1680, 2056, 3496, 5007, 5008, 7008, 7506, 7806, 7527, 1156, 1759, 3497, and 1156-18W.

The 1157 bulb is cross-referenced with 1157, P21/5W, BAY15D, P21/4W, BA15D, PR21/4W, S25, S-25, 1016, 1034, 1130, 1152, 1154, 1157, 1158, 1493, 2057, 2357, 2397, 7528, 3496, and P21/5W.

To make sure you get the right bulb for your vehicle, start by checking your owner’s manual, which usually lists the exact bulb type for each light. You can also look at the existing bulb in your car—its base type and markings usually indicate whether it’s a 1156 or 1157. Online fitment guides and automotive parts websites can also help by letting you search by make, model, and year.

What Is the Base Type of 1156 and 1157 Bulbs?

They are not the same base. Here’s the key difference:

1156 Bulb: Uses a BA15S base, which has a single contact at the bottom and two pins on the side, aligned directly opposite each other (180 degrees apart). It’s a single-filament bulb, typically used for functions like backup or turn signals.

1157 Bulb: Uses a BA15D base, featuring two bottom contacts for its dual filament design. This allows it to perform two functions, such as running and brake lights. The side pins are also 180 degrees apart.

There’s also the BAU15S base, which resembles the BA15S but with one key difference: its side pins are set at a 150-degree angle instead of 180. This makes it incompatible with BA15S sockets.

Important Note:
You can’t swap these bulbs. A bulb with a BAU15S base won’t fit into a BA15S or BA15D socket properly, and vice versa. The alignment of the pins and the number of contact points at the base are what prevent interchangeability.

What Is the Wattage and Voltage of 1156 and 1157 Bulbs?

Stock halogen or incandescent 1156 and 1157 bulbs are designed for standard 12-volt automotive systems:

1156 bulbs: typically 21 watts for single-function lighting

1157 bulbs: usually 21/5 watts for dual-function operation

Quality LED 1156/1157 bulbs draw only 5–10 watts while producing brighter light than their halogen counterparts, making them safer for your wiring and electrical system.

What Is the Lifespan of 1156 and 1157 Bulbs?

Incandescent versions of these bulbs generally last 1,000–2,000 hours under normal conditions. Over time, the filament can weaken, reducing light output and increasing the chance of failure.

High-quality LED 1156/1157 bulbs can last anywhere from 25,000 to 50,000 hours, sometimes even longer. That means fewer replacements, less hassle, and more consistent lighting performance over time.

What Is the Brightness of 1156 and 1157 Bulbs?

Traditional halogen 1156/1157 bulbs usually emit 400–800 lumens.

LED replacements offer up to 3000 lumens depending on quality, brightness angle, and design. The extra brightness is especially helpful for brake lights, turn signals, and reverse lights, enhancing safety and making your vehicle more noticeable on the road.

Are LED 1156 and 1157 Bulbs Worth It?

Absolutely. Upgrading to LED 1156/1157 bulbs offers multiple benefits:

One of the most noticeable benefits is the brightness. LEDs produce a much stronger, cleaner light than traditional incandescent bulbs. This makes your tail lights, brake lights, or turn signals more visible, improving safety and helping other drivers see you sooner. The faster response time of LEDs also gives an extra edge in alerting others, which can help reduce the risk of accidents.

LEDs also draw less power, easing the load on your vehicle’s electrical system, and they tend to last far longer than halogen bulbs. They’re more resistant to vibrations and harsh conditions, making them a reliable long-term choice.

A couple of things to keep in mind: quality LED bulbs do cost more upfront, and some newer vehicles may display a CANbus warning if the bulb draws less power than expected. Choosing CANbus error-free LEDs solves this problem and ensures a simple, plug-and-play installation.

Where to Buy 1156 and 1157 LED Bulbs?

When shopping for 1156 or 1157 LED bulbs, choose a trusted brand for reliable fit, brightness, and long-lasting performance.

SEALIGHT is highly recommended for consistent performance, easy installation, and excellent customer support. Our LEDs are well-engineered for seamless installation, delivering full-range illumination without the guesswork. With several product lines available, finding the right match for your vehicle is easy. From fast shipping to helpful support and a 90-day warranty, SEALIGHT makes the upgrade process smooth and stress-free.

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