Mercedes-Benz S400 License Plate Bulb Size

The Mercedes-Benz S400 license plate requires a bulb with the unique size 12961 for proper illumination. Data for the specified lighting component covers the range from 2010 to 2013.

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
2010-2013	12961	Check Price

Bulb Specifications

Description	Type	Shop
Philips part number. Miniature wedge bulb (T10) with W2.1x9.5d base. 12V, 5W.	12961	Check Price

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Additional Notes

The Mercedes-Benz S400 uses the 12961 bulb for its license plate lights across the 2010-2013 model years.
The 12961 is a Philips part number designating a miniature wedge bulb in the T10 form factor, which is one of the most widely used bulb types in automotive interior and exterior accent lighting applications.
The bulb operates at 12 volts and draws 5 watts, which is consistent with the low power demands typical of license plate illumination circuits.
The W2.1x9.5d base type is a wedge-style connection, meaning the bulb is held in place by tension from the socket rather than by a bayonet or screw mechanism.
The T10 designation refers to the tubular envelope width of the bulb, expressed in tenths of an inch, placing it among the smaller wedge bulbs used in automotive applications.
Because the 12961 is a manufacturer-specific part number from Philips, equivalent bulbs from other manufacturers must share the same T10 form factor, W2.1x9.5d base, 12V rating, and 5W output to be considered interchangeable.