The Dodge Omni tail light requires a 1157 bulb size for proper illumination and function. Data for the specified component covers the period from 1978 through 1984.
The year-by-year compatibility chart below provides a quick reference to verify the correct bulb size for your vehicle.
The Dodge Omni outer tail light uses the 1157 bulb across all model years covered in the specifications, from 1978-1990.
The 1157 is a dual-filament bulb with a BAY15d bayonet base, rated at 12V with a 21W/5W output. The two filaments serve separate functions, with the higher-wattage filament typically handling braking or turn signal duties and the lower-wattage filament handling running light functions.
The BAY15d bayonet base features two offset pins, a design that prevents incorrect installation by ensuring the bulb can only be seated in one orientation.
The Dodge Omni inner tail light position uses the 168 bulb, though only for the 1985-1990 model years, as the inner tail light sub-part does not extend to earlier years in the specifications.
The 168 is a T10 miniature wedge bulb rated at 12V and 4.9W. The wedge base relies on the tension of the socket contacts rather than a locking mechanism to hold the bulb in place.
Both the 168 and 1157 conform to ANSI standards applicable in the United States and Canada, meaning they follow standardized electrical and physical specifications recognized across North American markets.
The 1157 and 168 are not interchangeable. They differ in base type, wattage, filament count, and physical form, making each specific to its designated socket position on the Dodge Omni.
The 1157 operates at a significantly higher wattage than the 168, with its primary filament drawing 21W compared to the 168's 4.9W, reflecting the different functional roles of the outer and inner tail light positions.