Mercedes-Benz Sprinter License Plate Bulb Size

Additional Notes

• The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter uses the 12961 as its license plate bulb across the 2010-2021 and 2023-2025 model years, making it the dominant fitment across this range.
• The 2022 Sprinter uses the 12821 bulb for its license plate position, which differs from the fitment used in surrounding model years.
• Both the 12961 and 12821 are Philips part numbers assigned to miniature wedge bulbs of the T10 type, operating at 12 volts with a 5-watt output.
• The T10 designation refers to a tubular bulb with a nominal width of 10 millimeters, a form factor widely used in low-intensity automotive lighting positions such as license plate lamps.
• Both bulbs share the W2.1x9.5d base type, which is the standard wedge base used across T10 miniature bulbs, where the base width is 2.1 millimeters and the pin spacing is 9.5 millimeters.
• Because the 12961 and 12821 share identical physical dimensions, voltage rating, and wattage, they are functionally interchangeable in the Sprinter's license plate housing despite carrying different Philips part numbers.
• At 5 watts and 12 volts, these bulbs draw approximately 0.42 amperes, which is consistent with the low current demands typical of license plate lamp circuits.