INFINITI M45 License Plate Bulb Size

The INFINITI M45 license plate light uses 12961 and 168 bulb sizes for the exterior illumination of the rear registration area. Data for the specific components covers the period from 2003 through 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
2009-2010	12961
2006-2008	168
2003-2004	168

Bulb Specifications

Description	Bulb Size
Philips part number. Miniature wedge bulb (T10) with W2.1x9.5d base. 12V, 5W.	12961
ANSI standard (US & Canada). Miniature wedge bulb (T10). 12V, 4.9W.	168

Other Locations

Additional Notes

The INFINITI M45 license plate bulb specification splits across two bulb types depending on the model year, with the 168 covering 2003-2004 and 2006-2008, and the 12961 covering 2009-2010.
Both bulb types share the T10 miniature wedge form factor, meaning they occupy the same physical envelope within the license plate lamp housing.
Despite the shared T10 body shape, the two bulbs differ in their base designation. The 168 follows the ANSI standard used across the United States and Canada, while the 12961 carries a W2.1x9.5d base designation under the Philips part numbering system.
The wattage between the two types is not identical. The 168 operates at 4.9W, while the 12961 operates at 5W, both on a 12V circuit.
The 12961 is a Philips-designated part number rather than an ANSI or SAE industry-standard code, which is a relevant distinction when sourcing replacements from non-Philips suppliers.
The W2.1x9.5d base on the 12961 is a metric wedge base specification defined under IEC and ECE standards, commonly found on European-market vehicles and components.
Because the 168 is an ANSI-standardized bulb, it is produced by multiple manufacturers and is widely available as a direct replacement for the applicable INFINITI M45 model years.
The physical similarity between the T10 168 and T10 12961 does not confirm interchangeability, as base construction differences between ANSI and W2.1x9.5d standards can affect socket fit depending on the lamp assembly design.