Mercedes-Benz E430 front and rear side marker bulbs utilize 12961 and 12821 bulb sizes respectively. The replacement chart covers 1998 to 2002 model production 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 Mercedes-Benz E430 uses the 12961 bulb for the front side marker position across the 1998-2002 model years.
The rear side marker position across the same 1998-2002 model years calls for the 12821 bulb.
Both the 12961 and 12821 are Philips part numbers belonging to the T10 miniature wedge bulb family, operating at 12 volts and rated at 5 watts.
The T10 designation refers to a tubular bulb with a nominal width of 10/32 of an inch, a form factor widely used in low-intensity automotive lighting such as side markers and courtesy lights.
Both bulbs share the W2.1x9.5d base type, a wedge-style base in which the glass envelope itself acts as the retention mechanism rather than a separate metal shell.
Although the 12961 and 12821 share identical electrical ratings and the same base type, they carry distinct Philips part numbers, indicating they are not confirmed as interchangeable between the front and rear positions on the Mercedes-Benz E430.