BMW Z3 Headlight Bulb Size

BMW Z3 high beam headlight bulbs measure 9005 in size, while low beam headlight bulbs measure 9006 in size. The replacement chart covers vehicle production spanning 1996 to 1998 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.

High Beam Headlight

Years	US Type	EU Type	Shop
1996-1998	9005	HB3	Check Price

Low Beam Headlight

Years	US Type	EU Type	Shop
1996-1998	9006	HB4	Check Price

Bulb Specifications

Description	Type	Shop
ANSI standard (US & Canada). Single-filament halogen bulb with P20d base. 12V, 65W.	9005	Check Price
ANSI standard (US & Canada). Single-filament halogen bulb with P22d base. 12V, 55W.	9006	Check Price

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Additional Notes

The BMW Z3 uses the 9005 bulb for high beam headlights across the 1996-1998 model years, and the 9006 bulb for low beam headlights across the same span.
Both the 9005 and 9006 are single-filament halogen bulbs operating on a 12-volt system, meaning each bulb handles only one lighting function rather than combining high and low beam in a single unit.
The 9005 is rated at 65 watts, while the 9006 is rated at 55 watts, reflecting the higher output typically associated with high beam applications compared to low beam.
The 9005 uses a P20d base and the 9006 uses a P22d base. These two base types are physically distinct, which prevents cross-installation between the high and low beam positions.
Both bulb types conform to ANSI standards applicable in the United States and Canada, indicating they meet a defined set of performance and dimensional criteria for those markets.
Because the 9005 and 9006 share similar appearances but carry different base configurations and wattage ratings, substituting one for the other is not compatible with the Z3's headlight housings.