What Size Bulbs Does a 2003 GMC Sonoma Use?
Correct headlight, fog light, and tail light bulb sizes. Sourced from OEM catalog data.
Installation Difficulty
Easy (Plug and Play)
Est. Replacement Cost
$15 - $40 (Halogen) / $30+ (LED)
What Lighting System Does the 2003 GMC Sonoma Have?
The 2003 GMC Sonoma features an extensive lighting system with 13 bulb positions. It uses halogen technology with 9006 LED low beams and 9005 LED high beams in a dual-bulb configuration. The Sonoma has been available from 1995 to 2004, and the 2003 model falls in the late-generation years.
Can You Put LED Bulbs in a 2003 GMC Sonoma?
To upgrade the 2003 GMC Sonoma headlights to LED, you will need a 9006 LED LED kit for the low beams and a 9005 LED LED kit for the high beams. Start with the low beams since they are used most often and have the biggest impact on nighttime visibility. For the fog lights, a 881 LED LED bulb provides a clean white output that pairs well with LED headlights.
How to Replace Bulbs on a 2003 GMC Sonoma
The 9006 bulb uses a push-and-twist L-shaped bayonet lock. To remove the old bulb, disconnect the wiring harness first, then twist the bulb counter-clockwise and pull it out. Older model years like the 2003 Sonoma typically offer easy access to the headlight bulbs from behind the headlight assembly under the hood. Most owners can complete the swap in under 10 minutes per side. 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 881 LED fog light socket.
Full Upgrade Bundle
Upgrade All 13 Positions at Once
2003 GMC Sonoma Complete Bulb Size Chart
| Position | Bulb Size | Shop |
|---|---|---|
Low Beam | 9006 LED | Buy 9006 LED |
High Beam | 9005 LED | Buy 9005 LED |
Fog Light | 881 LED | Buy 881 LED |
Brake Light | 211-2 LED | Buy 211-2 LED |
Side Marker | 194 LED | Buy 194 LED |
Turn Signal Front | 3157K LED | Buy 3157K LED |
Turn Signal Rear | 3057 LED | Buy 3057 LED |
Reverse Light | 3057 | Buy 3057 |
Dome Light | 562 | Buy 562 |
License Plate | 192 | Buy 192 |
Map Light | 212-2 | Buy 212-2 |
Parking Light | 3157K | Buy 3157K |
Trunk Light | 211-2 | Buy 211-2 |
Want to upgrade everything at once?
Shop Complete LED Kit for 2003 GMC SonomaHow Long Do 2003 GMC Sonoma Headlight Bulbs Last?
Standard halogen headlights on the 2003 GMC Sonoma 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 23 years old, the original bulbs on your Sonoma 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 2003 GMC Sonoma?
The 9006 low beam bulb on the 2003 GMC Sonoma is cross-compatible with HB4 bulbs. These share the same physical base and electrical connection, so they will fit the socket. However, 9006 is the recommended size because it is optimized for the wattage and beam pattern designed into your headlight housing. For the high beams, the 9005 is interchangeable with HB3. 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.
2003 GMC Sonoma Headlight FAQ
Did GMC Sonoma Bulb Sizes Change Over the Years?
Over its production run from 1995 to 2004, the GMC Sonoma has seen bulb size changes in the Low Beam, High Beam and Fog Light positions. The 2003 model uses the newer bulb specification introduced around 2002. Always verify the exact bulb size for your specific 2003 model year using the chart above, as using the wrong size can result in poor fitment or reduced light output.
Other Sonoma Years
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Other Vehicles That Use 9006 LED Bulbs
These vehicles from other makes also use a 9006 LED low beam bulb: