BMW 525i Dome Light Bulb Size

The BMW 525i dome light utilizes 12961 and 6411 bulb sizes for the interior lighting system. Data for the provided bulb specifications covers the range from 1995 through 2007.

The year-by-year compatibility chart below provides a quick reference to verify the correct bulb size for your vehicle.

Bulb Size by Year Range

Years	Bulb Size
2006-2007	12961
2001-2005	6411
1995	12961

Bulb Specifications

Description	Bulb Size
Philips part number. Miniature wedge bulb (T10) with W2.1x9.5d base. 12V, 5W.	12961
ANSI standard (US & Canada). Festoon bulb, 36mm length, SV8.5 base. 12V, 5W.	6411

Other Locations

Additional Notes

The BMW 525i dome light specifications reference two distinct bulb types: the 12961 and the 6411, both rated at 12 volts and 5 watts.
The 12961 is a Philips part number designating a miniature wedge bulb in the T10 form factor, using a W2.1x9.5d base.
The 6411 is an ANSI-standardized designation recognized across the United States and Canada, referring to a festoon-style bulb with a 36mm length and an SV8.5 base.
Festoon bulbs mount by pressing their end caps into spring clips within the fixture, while wedge bulbs insert into a socket by friction contact along the base, making the two types physically incompatible with each other's housings.
The BMW 525i (2001-2005) uses the 6411 festoon bulb for the dome light across that model year range.
The 2006-2007 model years use the 12961 wedge bulb, representing a different fitment from the preceding years.
The 1995 model year also specifies the 12961 wedge bulb, the same type used in 2006-2007.
Despite sharing identical voltage and wattage ratings, the 12961 and 6411 are not interchangeable due to their differing base types and physical mounting configurations.