The BMW 745Li front inner turn signal uses 3457NA or 3357NA bulb sizes, while front turn signals require 3357NA or 12961 sizes, and rear turn signals use 12496 or P21W sizes. The replacement chart covers 2002 through 2005 model years with corresponding bulb size specifications.
The year-by-year compatibility chart below provides a quick reference to verify the correct bulb size for your vehicle.
The 3357NA and 3457NA are the most frequently specified bulb types across the BMW 745Li turn signal positions. Both follow ANSI standards applicable to the US and Canadian markets and share the T25 wedge form factor with natural amber glass.
The key distinction between the 3357NA and 3457NA is filament count. The 3357NA is a single-filament bulb rated at 27W, while the 3457NA is a dual-filament bulb rated at 27W and 7W. This difference makes the two types non-interchangeable despite their shared housing format.
In the Front Inner Turn Signal position, the BMW 745Li uses the 3457NA for 2002 and 2004-2005, while the 2003 model year uses the 3357NA. The shift from a dual-filament to a single-filament bulb in that position for 2003 reflects a fitment difference that requires attention when sourcing a replacement.
The Front Turn Signal position uses the 3357NA for the front-facing element across all model years from 2002-2005, indicating consistent fitment in that specific location throughout the production run covered by these specifications.
A secondary bulb, the 12961, is specified for the side element of the Front Turn Signal on all model years from 2002-2005. It is a miniature T10 wedge bulb with a W2.1x9.5d base, rated at 12V and 5W, and carries a Philips part number rather than an ANSI designation.
The Rear Turn Signal position shows a split between two different bulb standards. The 2002 and 2005 model years use the 12496, a Philips/Osram halogen bulb for specialty applications rated at 12V, while the 2003-2004 model years use the P21W.
The P21W follows the ECE standard used in European and worldwide markets. It is a single-filament signalling bulb with a BA15s bayonet base, rated at 12V and 21W. Its bayonet base type differs structurally from the wedge bases used by the ANSI-designated bulbs in the same vehicle.
The presence of both ANSI-standard bulbs and ECE-standard bulbs within the same vehicle's specifications reflects the international sourcing and regional variation common in BMW production. The two standards are not cross-compatible due to differences in base type and regulatory classification.