Chevrolet Corvair HVAC Temperature Control Bulb Bulb Size

The Chevrolet Corvair HVAC temperature control bulb utilizes a unique 53 bulb size for illumination within the dashboard assembly. Data for the specified component covers the range from 1960 through 1964.

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 Type	Shop
1960-1964	53	Check Price

Bulb Specifications

Description	Type	Shop
ANSI standard (US & Canada). Single-filament bulb with BA9s base. 12V, 2W.	53	Check Price

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Additional Notes

The ANSI 53 bulb is the specified type for the HVAC temperature control on the Chevrolet Corvair across the 1960-1964 model years.
The 53 bulb operates on a 12-volt electrical system and draws 2 watts, placing it in the low-wattage range typical of instrument and control panel lighting applications.
This bulb uses a BA9s base, which is a miniature bayonet-style single-contact base with a 9mm cap body, commonly found in small indicator and panel lighting roles.
The 53 is a single-filament bulb, meaning it produces one fixed level of illumination with no dual-intensity function.
The ANSI 53 designation confirms the bulb meets a standardized specification recognized in both the United States and Canada, indicating consistent physical and electrical characteristics across manufacturers of this bulb type.
Because the BA9s base is a distinct size, substitution with bulbs using other base types would not result in a compatible physical fit in the Corvair temperature control socket.