Lincoln MKS License Plate Bulb Size

The Lincoln MKS license plate light uses DE3423 and 168 bulb sizes for the exterior illumination components. Available data for the specified lighting covers the range from 2009 through 2016.

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
2013-2016	DE3423
2009-2012	168

Bulb Specifications

Description	Bulb Size
ANSI standard (US & Canada). Festoon bulb, 41mm length, end-cap contacts. 12V.	DE3423
ANSI standard (US & Canada). Miniature wedge bulb (T10). 12V, 4.9W.	168

Other Locations

Additional Notes

The Lincoln MKS license plate bulb specification changed between the 2012 and 2013 model years, with the DE3423 replacing the 168 from 2013 onward through 2016.
The DE3423 is a festoon-type bulb measuring 41mm in length with end-cap contacts, operating at 12V. This contact style requires the bulb to be held in place by pressure against both ends rather than a socket.
The 168 is a T10 miniature wedge bulb rated at 12V and 4.9W. The wedge base is formed by the glass envelope itself, which is pinched flat at the base to grip the socket directly.
Both the DE3423 and 168 conform to ANSI standards applicable in the United States and Canada, meaning both types follow standardized sizing and electrical specifications within those markets.
The Lincoln MKS (2009-2012) uses the 168 bulb for the license plate position. The wedge base of the 168 is not interchangeable with the end-cap festoon design of the DE3423.
The Lincoln MKS (2013-2016) uses the DE3423 festoon bulb for the license plate position. Installing a wedge-base 168 in a festoon housing would result in an improper fit due to the incompatible contact types.
The 41mm length is a defining fitment factor for the DE3423. Festoon bulbs of differing lengths, such as 36mm or 44mm variants, would not seat correctly in the same housing.