Kia Sorento Back Up Light Bulb Size

The Kia Sorento back up light utilizes 1156, 921, and P21W bulb sizes depending on the specific version of the vehicle. Data for the bulb sizes covers the range from 2003 to 2024.

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
2024	1156
2023	921
2021-2022	1156
2020	921
2018	921
2007-2009	921
2003-2006	1156

Bulb Specifications

Description	Bulb Size
ANSI standard (US & Canada). Single-filament bulb with BA15s bayonet base. 12V, 21W.	1156
ANSI standard (US & Canada). Wedge bulb (T15). 12V, 16W.	921

Other Locations

Additional Notes

The Kia Sorento backup light specifications reference two bulb types across all listed model years: the 1156 and the 921.
The 1156 is a single-filament bulb with a BA15s bayonet base, rated at 12V and 21W under the ANSI standard applicable in the US and Canada.
The 921 is a T15 wedge bulb rated at 12V and 16W, also conforming to the ANSI standard for the US and Canada.
The BA15s bayonet base of the 1156 and the wedge base of the 921 are physically incompatible, meaning the two bulb types are not interchangeable without a socket adapter.
The 1156 draws 21W compared to the 921's 16W, reflecting a difference in power consumption that is relevant when considering any substitution between the two types.
The Kia Sorento (2021-2022 and 2024) uses the 1156 bulb for the backup light position, while the 2023 model year uses the 921.
The 2003-2006 Sorento uses the 1156 for backup lights, while the 2007-2009 and 2018 and 2020 model years use the 921.
Because the specified bulb type varies across model years, confirming the exact year before sourcing a replacement is necessary to avoid a base-type mismatch.