Mercedes-Benz E500 License Plate Bulb Size

The Mercedes-Benz E500 license plate light requires a DE3423 bulb size for proper installation and function. Data for the specified lighting component covers the period from 1994 through 2006.

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 Type	Shop
2003-2006	DE3423	Check Price
1994	DE3423	Check Price

Bulb Specifications

Description	Type	Shop
ANSI standard (US & Canada). Festoon bulb, 41mm length, end-cap contacts. 12V.	DE3423	Check Price

Other Locations

Additional Notes

The DE3423 is a festoon-type bulb, meaning it is cylindrical in form and makes electrical contact through metal caps at each end rather than through a base socket.
The DE3423 carries an ANSI designation, indicating it conforms to a standardized specification recognized across the United States and Canada.
The bulb operates at 12 volts, consistent with the standard electrical system voltage found in passenger vehicles.
The DE3423 has a length of 41mm, a physical specification that determines whether the bulb seats correctly within the license plate lamp housing.
The Mercedes-Benz E500 uses the DE3423 across the 2003-2006 model years as well as the 1994 model year for its license plate lighting position.
Because festoon bulbs rely on end-cap contact rather than a keyed base, substitution with another festoon bulb of a different length would result in poor or failed electrical contact, even if the replacement bulb is otherwise similar.
The consistent use of the DE3423 across multiple E500 model years means a single bulb specification covers that range of fitments without variation.