What Size Bulbs Does a 1996 Mazda MX-6 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 1996 Mazda MX-6 Have?
The 1996 Mazda MX-6 features an extensive lighting system with 13 bulb positions. It uses halogen technology with a single 9004 LED dual-filament bulb handling both low and high beams. The MX-6 has been available from 1988 to 1997, and the 1996 model falls in the late-generation years.
Can You Put LED Bulbs in a 1996 Mazda MX-6?
Upgrading the 1996 Mazda MX-6 to LED headlights is straightforward since it uses a single 9004 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 9004 LED LED kit that specifically supports dual-filament operation to ensure both beams work correctly. For the fog lights, a H3 LED LED bulb provides a clean white output that pairs well with LED headlights.
How to Replace Bulbs on a 1996 Mazda MX-6
To remove the headlight bulb, disconnect the wiring harness, then twist the bulb counter-clockwise and pull it straight out of the housing. Older model years like the 1996 MX-6 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 H3 LED fog light socket.
Full Upgrade Bundle
Upgrade All 13 Positions at Once
1996 Mazda MX-6 Complete Bulb Size Chart
| Position | Bulb Size | Shop |
|---|---|---|
Low Beam | 9004 LED | Buy 9004 LED |
High Beam | 9004 LED | Buy 9004 LED |
Fog Light | H3 LED | Buy H3 LED |
Brake Light | 921 LED | Buy 921 LED |
Side Marker | 194 LED | Buy 194 LED |
Turn Signal Front | 1157NA LED | Buy 1157NA LED |
Turn Signal Rear | 1156 LED | Buy 1156 LED |
Dome Light | 194 or DE3175 | Buy 194 or DE3175 |
License Plate | 168 | Buy 168 |
Map Light | 168 or 194 | Buy 168 or 194 |
Parking Light | 1157NA | Buy 1157NA |
Reverse Light | 1156 | Buy 1156 |
Trunk Light | 194 or 168 | Buy 194 or 168 |
Want to upgrade everything at once?
Shop Complete LED Kit for 1996 Mazda MX-6How Long Do 1996 Mazda MX-6 Headlight Bulbs Last?
Standard halogen headlights on the 1996 Mazda MX-6 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 30 years old, the original bulbs on your MX-6 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 1996 Mazda MX-6?
The 9004 low beam bulb on the 1996 Mazda MX-6 is a specific fitment. There are no widely recognized cross-compatible alternatives, so make sure to purchase the exact 9004 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.
1996 Mazda MX-6 Headlight FAQ
Did Mazda MX-6 Bulb Sizes Change Over the Years?
Over its production run from 1988 to 1997, the Mazda MX-6 has seen bulb size changes in the High Beam, Fog Light and Brake Light positions. The 1996 model uses the newer bulb specification introduced around 1993. Always verify the exact bulb size for your specific 1996 model year using the chart above, as using the wrong size can result in poor fitment or reduced light output.
Other MX-6 Years
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Other Vehicles That Use 9004 LED Bulbs
These vehicles from other makes also use a 9004 LED low beam bulb: