Land Rover Range Rover License Plate Bulb Size

Additional Notes

• The Land Rover Range Rover license plate position uses two distinct bulb form factors across its model history: festoon-style bulbs with end-cap contacts and wedge-style bulbs with a pin base, reflecting different socket designs used in different production periods.
• The DE3423 is an ANSI-standardized festoon bulb with a 41mm length and end-cap contacts operating at 12V. It is the most frequently specified bulb across the Range Rover license plate fitment data, covering the 2003-2009 and 2015-2016 model years.
• Festoon bulbs make contact through both ends of the cylindrical glass envelope rather than through a base or pins. The 41mm length of the DE3423 is a critical fitment factor, as festoon bulbs of different lengths are not interchangeable even when voltage ratings match.
• The 12961 is a Philips-numbered T10 miniature wedge bulb with a W2.1x9.5d base, rated at 12V and 5W. It is specified for the Range Rover across the 1996-2002 and 2010-2012 model years.
• The 12821 shares the same T10 form factor and W2.1x9.5d wedge base as the 12961, also rated at 12V and 5W. It is specified solely for the 1994 model year, and while the two Philips part numbers differ, their base and voltage specifications are identical.
• The W2.1x9.5d base designation describes a wedge-type connection where the glass pinch at the base of the bulb itself acts as the retaining and contact mechanism, with no separate metal base or bayonet pins involved.
• The 3893 is an ANSI-standardized bulb with a BAY15d bayonet base, specified for the 1987-1988 model years. A BAY15d base features two pins offset at different heights, which prevents incorrect insertion into the socket.
• The 3893 carries a dual-filament construction, which is atypical for a license plate application. This reflects a specialty fitment rather than a standard single-function lamp configuration.
• The BAY15d bayonet base of the 3893 is physically incompatible with the wedge sockets used by the 12961 and 12821, and equally incompatible with the end-cap festoon socket of the DE3423, making cross-substitution between these bulb types impossible without socket modification.
• Although the 12961 and 12821 share the same base type and electrical ratings, they carry different Philips part numbers, and substitution between them should be confirmed against socket and housing fitment for the specific model year before use.