BMW M5 License Plate Bulb Size

The BMW M5 license plate light uses a DE3423 bulb size for the illumination of the rear registration area. Information provided covers a span of time starting in 1988 and ending in 2010.

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
2006-2010	DE3423
2000-2003	DE3423
1991-1993	DE3423
1988	DE3423

Bulb Specifications

Description	Bulb Size
ANSI standard (US & Canada). Festoon bulb, 41mm length, end-cap contacts. 12V.	DE3423

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Additional Notes

The DE3423 is the sole license plate bulb size listed across all model years of the BMW M5 covered in these specifications, spanning from 1988 through 2010.
The DE3423 is a festoon-type bulb, meaning it is cylindrical in shape and makes electrical contact through metal caps at each end rather than through a base socket or pins.
The DE3423 operates at 12 volts, which is consistent with the standard electrical system voltage found in passenger vehicles.
At 41mm in length, the DE3423 falls within the mid-range of common festoon bulb sizes, which typically span from around 28mm to 44mm depending on application.
The DE3423 designation follows ANSI standards applicable to the United States and Canada, indicating the bulb conforms to a defined set of performance and dimensional criteria recognized in North American markets.
Because the DE3423 uses end-cap contacts, the housing that receives it must support a festoon-style fitment; it is not interchangeable with wedge-base or bayonet-base bulb types even if voltage ratings match.
The BMW M5 (1988-2010) consistently uses the same DE3423 specification across all listed years, meaning the license plate bulb housing design remained compatible throughout this range of production.