The Kia Niro front and rear side marker bulb sizes are 12961 and 168, representing the available bulb options for this component. The replacement chart covers 2017 to 2022 model years 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.
The Kia Niro uses two distinct bulb types across its model years for both front and rear side markers: the 168 and the 12961, both of which fall under the T10 miniature wedge form factor.
The 168 is an ANSI-standardized bulb recognized across the US and Canadian markets, operating at 12V and 4.9W with a T10 wedge body.
The 12961 is a Philips part number designation for a T10 miniature wedge bulb fitted with a W2.1x9.5d base, rated at 12V and 5W.
The W2.1x9.5d base on the 12961 is a specific wedge base standard defined by its pin width and contact configuration, which differs from generic T10 wedge bases used on some 168-type bulbs.
The Kia Niro (2017-2020) uses the 168 bulb for both front and rear side marker positions.
The 2021-2022 Niro uses the 12961 bulb in both the front and rear side marker positions, replacing the 168 specification from earlier model years.
Although the 168 and 12961 share the T10 wedge body shape, the base type and wattage differ slightly, and substitution between the two warrants attention to socket compatibility.
The wattage difference between the two bulbs is minimal, with the 168 rated at 4.9W and the 12961 at 5W, both operating on a standard 12V automotive circuit.