What Size Bulbs Does a 1998 Honda Prelude 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 1998 Honda Prelude Have?
The 1998 Honda Prelude features a standard lighting system with 2 bulb positions. It uses halogen technology with a single H1 LED dual-filament bulb handling both low and high beams. The Prelude has been available from 1979 to 2001, and the 1998 model falls in the late-generation years.
Can You Put LED Bulbs in a 1998 Honda Prelude?
Upgrading the 1998 Honda Prelude to LED headlights is straightforward since it uses a single H1 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 H1 LED LED kit that specifically supports dual-filament operation to ensure both beams work correctly.
How to Replace Bulbs on a 1998 Honda Prelude
The H1 bulb uses a wire clip retainer that snaps over the bulb base. 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 1998 Prelude 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.
Full Upgrade Bundle
Upgrade All 2 Positions at Once
1998 Honda Prelude Complete Bulb Size Chart
| Position | Bulb Size | Shop |
|---|---|---|
Low Beam | H1 LED | Buy H1 LED |
High Beam | H1 LED | Buy H1 LED |
Want to upgrade everything at once?
Shop Complete LED Kit for 1998 Honda PreludeHow Long Do 1998 Honda Prelude Headlight Bulbs Last?
Standard halogen headlights on the 1998 Honda Prelude 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 28 years old, the original bulbs on your Prelude 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 1998 Honda Prelude?
The H1 low beam bulb on the 1998 Honda Prelude is a specific fitment. There are no widely recognized cross-compatible alternatives, so make sure to purchase the exact H1 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.
1998 Honda Prelude Headlight FAQ
Did Honda Prelude Bulb Sizes Change Over the Years?
Over its production run from 1979 to 2001, the Honda Prelude has seen bulb size changes in the Low Beam and High Beam positions. The 1998 model uses the newer bulb specification introduced around 1997. Always verify the exact bulb size for your specific 1998 model year using the chart above, as using the wrong size can result in poor fitment or reduced light output.
Other Prelude Years
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Other Vehicles That Use H1 LED Bulbs
These vehicles from other makes also use a H1 LED low beam bulb: