Mercedes-Benz SL500 License Plate Bulb Size

The Mercedes-Benz SL500 license plate light requires a DE3423 bulb size for proper illumination of the rear vehicle identification area. Available data for the specified component covers the production range from 1994 to 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
1994-2006	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 Mercedes-Benz SL500 uses the DE3423 bulb for the license plate position across all listed model years, spanning 1994-2006.
The DE3423 is a festoon-type bulb, meaning it is cylindrical in shape with metal end-cap contacts at each end rather than a base or pin configuration.
Festoon bulbs are held in place by spring-loaded clips within the housing, with electrical contact made through the metal caps pressed against each end.
The DE3423 has a specified length of 41mm, which is a critical fitment factor, as festoon bulbs must match the socket length to seat correctly and maintain contact.
The bulb operates at 12 volts, consistent with the standard electrical system voltage found in passenger vehicles of this type.
The DE3423 designation follows ANSI standards recognized in both the United States and Canada, indicating the bulb meets regulated performance and dimensional requirements in those markets.
Because the same bulb size applies uniformly across the entire 1994-2006 model year range for the SL500, no year-specific fitment distinctions exist within this span.
Festoon bulbs in the 41mm size are shared across many vehicle makes and models, though substitution with physically similar bulbs of differing lengths risks poor contact or housing damage.