What Size Bulbs Does a 2017 BMW X3 Use?
Correct headlight, fog light, and tail light bulb sizes. Sourced from OEM catalog data.
Installation Difficulty
Hard (Tight clearances)
Est. Replacement Cost
$15 - $40 (Halogen) / $30+ (LED)
What Lighting System Does the 2017 BMW X3 Have?
The 2017 BMW X3 features an extensive lighting system with 11 bulb positions. It uses halogen technology with a single H7 LED dual-filament bulb handling both low and high beams. The X3 has been available from 2005 to 2019, and the 2017 model falls in the late-generation years. As a BMW vehicle, it uses a CANbus electrical system that monitors bulb status.
LED Flicker Warning
This vehicle (BMW) is known to use a CANbus system that checks for burnt-out bulbs. Installing standard LEDs may cause them to flicker or trigger a dashboard error.
We highly recommend using a CANbus decoder or "Anti-Flicker" resistors.
Can You Put LED Bulbs in a 2017 BMW X3?
Upgrading the 2017 BMW X3 to LED headlights is straightforward since it uses a single H7 LED dual-filament bulb for both low and high beams. You only need one pair of LED bulbs to upgrade both functions. Look for a H7 LED LED kit that specifically supports dual-filament operation to ensure both beams work correctly. Important: BMW vehicles use a CANbus system that detects bulb wattage. Standard LED bulbs may trigger dashboard warnings or flicker. Choose LED kits labeled "CANbus-compatible" or add inline decoder resistors to prevent these issues. For the fog lights, a LED Fog Light LED bulb provides a clean white output that pairs well with LED headlights.
How to Replace Bulbs on a 2017 BMW X3
The H7 bulb uses a spring clip or wire retainer that holds the bulb in the socket. To remove the old bulb, disconnect the wiring harness first, then twist the bulb counter-clockwise and pull it out. BMW vehicles are known for tight engine bay clearances around the headlight assembly. You may need to remove the air intake duct, battery cover, or wheel well liner to access the bulbs. Budget 30 to 45 minutes per side for your first replacement. When installing the new bulb, avoid touching the glass with bare fingers. Skin oils create hot spots that shorten bulb life. Wear clean gloves or handle the bulb by its plastic base only. The fog lights are accessed from underneath the front bumper. You may need to remove a few plastic clips or screws from the fender liner to reach the LED Fog Light fog light socket.
Full Upgrade Bundle
Upgrade All 11 Positions at Once
2017 BMW X3 Complete Bulb Size Chart
| Position | Bulb Size | Shop |
|---|---|---|
Low Beam | H7 LED | Buy H7 LED |
High Beam | H7 LED | Buy H7 LED |
Fog Light | LED Fog Light | Buy LED Fog Light |
Brake Light | LED Bulb | Buy LED Bulb |
Turn Signal Front | 7507 LED | Buy 7507 LED |
Side Marker | LED Bulb | Buy LED Bulb |
Turn Signal Rear | 7506 LED | Buy 7506 LED |
License Plate | LED Bulb | Buy LED Bulb |
Parking Light | 2825 | Buy 2825 |
Reverse Light | 921K | Buy 921K |
Trunk Light | LED Light | Buy LED Light |
Want to upgrade everything at once?
Shop Complete LED Kit for 2017 BMW X3How Long Do 2017 BMW X3 Headlight Bulbs Last?
Standard halogen headlights on the 2017 BMW X3 have an expected lifespan of 500 to 1,000 hours, which works out to roughly 2 to 3 years of normal use. Signs of a failing halogen bulb include noticeably dimmer output, a yellowish tint compared to the other headlight, or intermittent flickering. At 9 years old, the original bulbs on your X3 are likely overdue for replacement. Even if they still illuminate, reduced brightness significantly impacts nighttime safety. When one headlight burns out, replace both sides at the same time. Bulbs from the same batch age at similar rates, and mismatched brightness is distracting to oncoming drivers.
What Bulbs Are Compatible with the 2017 BMW X3?
The H7 low beam bulb on the 2017 BMW X3 is a specific fitment. There are no widely recognized cross-compatible alternatives, so make sure to purchase the exact H7 size. Using the wrong bulb size can cause improper beam patterns that reduce your visibility and blind other drivers. It can also cause overheating inside the headlight housing, potentially warping the plastic lens or reflector. Always verify the bulb number before purchasing.
2017 BMW X3 Headlight FAQ
Did BMW X3 Bulb Sizes Change Over the Years?
Over its production run from 2005 to 2019, the BMW X3 has seen bulb size changes in the Low Beam, High Beam and Fog Light positions. The 2017 model uses the earlier bulb specification that was in place before the change around 2018. Always verify the exact bulb size for your specific 2017 model year using the chart above, as using the wrong size can result in poor fitment or reduced light output.
Other X3 Years
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Other Vehicles That Use H7 LED Bulbs
These vehicles from other makes also use a H7 LED low beam bulb: