What Size Bulbs Does a 2004 Nissan Xterra 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 2004 Nissan Xterra Have?
The 2004 Nissan Xterra features an extensive lighting system with 13 bulb positions. It uses halogen technology with a single 9007 LED dual-filament bulb handling both low and high beams. The Xterra has been available from 2000 to 2015, and the 2004 model falls in the mid-generation years.
Can You Put LED Bulbs in a 2004 Nissan Xterra?
Upgrading the 2004 Nissan Xterra to LED headlights is straightforward since it uses a single 9007 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 9007 LED LED kit that specifically supports dual-filament operation to ensure both beams work correctly. For the fog lights, a 899 LED LED bulb provides a clean white output that pairs well with LED headlights.
How to Replace Bulbs on a 2004 Nissan Xterra
The 9007 bulb uses a twist-lock base with a keyed tab for alignment identical to H13. 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 2004 Xterra 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 899 LED fog light socket.
Full Upgrade Bundle
Upgrade All 13 Positions at Once
2004 Nissan Xterra Complete Bulb Size Chart
| Position | Bulb Size | Shop |
|---|---|---|
Low Beam | 9007 LED | Buy 9007 LED |
High Beam | 9007 LED | Buy 9007 LED |
Fog Light | 899 LED | Buy 899 LED |
Brake Light | 912 LED | Buy 912 LED |
Side Marker | 168 LED | Buy 168 LED |
Turn Signal Front | 3457AK LED | Buy 3457AK LED |
Turn Signal Rear | 3157NA LED | Buy 3157NA LED |
Dome Light | DE3175 | Buy DE3175 |
License Plate | 168 | Buy 168 |
Map Light | 168 | Buy 168 |
Parking Light | 168 or 3457AK | Buy 168 or 3457AK |
Reverse Light | 921 | Buy 921 |
Trunk Light | LED Light | Buy LED Light |
Want to upgrade everything at once?
Shop Complete LED Kit for 2004 Nissan XterraHow Long Do 2004 Nissan Xterra Headlight Bulbs Last?
Standard halogen headlights on the 2004 Nissan Xterra 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 22 years old, the original bulbs on your Xterra 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 2004 Nissan Xterra?
The 9007 low beam bulb on the 2004 Nissan Xterra is cross-compatible with HB5 bulbs. These share the same physical base and electrical connection, so they will fit the socket. However, 9007 is the recommended size because it is optimized for the wattage and beam pattern designed into your headlight housing. The 9007 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.
2004 Nissan Xterra Headlight FAQ
Did Nissan Xterra Bulb Sizes Change Over the Years?
Over its production run from 2000 to 2015, the Nissan Xterra has seen bulb size changes in the Low Beam, High Beam and Fog Light positions. The 2004 model uses the earlier bulb specification that was in place before the change around 2005. Always verify the exact bulb size for your specific 2004 model year using the chart above, as using the wrong size can result in poor fitment or reduced light output.
Other Xterra Years
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Other Vehicles That Use 9007 LED Bulbs
These vehicles from other makes also use a 9007 LED low beam bulb: