What Size Bulbs Does a 2018 Honda HR-V Use?
Correct headlight, fog light, and tail light bulb sizes. Sourced from OEM catalog data.
Installation Difficulty
Moderate (Dust covers often present)
Est. Replacement Cost
$15 - $40 (Halogen) / $30+ (LED)
What Lighting System Does the 2018 Honda HR-V Have?
The 2018 Honda HR-V features a standard lighting system with 2 bulb positions. It uses halogen technology with a single 9003 LED dual-filament bulb handling both low and high beams. The HR-V has been available from 2016 to 2019, and the 2018 model falls in the mid-generation years.
Can You Put LED Bulbs in a 2018 Honda HR-V?
Upgrading the 2018 Honda HR-V to LED headlights is straightforward since it uses a single 9003 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 9003 LED LED kit that specifically supports dual-filament operation to ensure both beams work correctly.
How to Replace Bulbs on a 2018 Honda HR-V
The 9003 bulb uses a spring clip retainer with a three-prong base identical to H4. To remove the old bulb, disconnect the wiring harness first, then twist the bulb counter-clockwise and pull it out. On the 2018 HR-V, you will likely encounter rubber dust covers behind the headlight housing. These pull off by hand or unscrew depending on the design. Allow about 15 to 20 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.
Full Upgrade Bundle
Upgrade All 2 Positions at Once
2018 Honda HR-V Complete Bulb Size Chart
| Position | Bulb Size | Shop |
|---|---|---|
Low Beam | 9003 LED | Buy 9003 LED |
High Beam | 9003 LED | Buy 9003 LED |
Want to upgrade everything at once?
Shop Complete LED Kit for 2018 Honda HR-VHow Long Do 2018 Honda HR-V Headlight Bulbs Last?
Standard halogen headlights on the 2018 Honda HR-V 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 8 years old, the original bulbs on your HR-V 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 2018 Honda HR-V?
The 9003 low beam bulb on the 2018 Honda HR-V is cross-compatible with H4, HB2 bulbs. These share the same physical base and electrical connection, so they will fit the socket. However, 9003 is the recommended size because it is optimized for the wattage and beam pattern designed into your headlight housing. The 9003 is a dual-filament bulb, meaning one bulb contains two separate filaments for low and high beams. This is a different design from single-filament bulbs like H11 or 9005. Make sure any LED replacement is specifically designed for dual-filament operation. 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.
2018 Honda HR-V Headlight FAQ
Did Honda HR-V Bulb Sizes Change Over the Years?
Over its production run from 2016 to 2019, the Honda HR-V has seen bulb size changes in the Low Beam and High Beam positions. The 2018 model uses the newer bulb specification introduced around 2018. Always verify the exact bulb size for your specific 2018 model year using the chart above, as using the wrong size can result in poor fitment or reduced light output.
Other HR-V Years
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Other Vehicles That Use 9003 LED Bulbs
These vehicles from other makes also use a 9003 LED low beam bulb: