The Mini Cooper front and rear side marker bulb size is 12961, with both positions utilizing an identical bulb size. The replacement chart contains specifications covering vehicle production years from 2002 to 2024.
The year-by-year compatibility chart below provides a quick reference to verify the correct bulb size for your vehicle.
The Mini Cooper uses the 12961 bulb for both front and rear side markers across all model years from 2002-2024.
The 12961 is a Philips part number designating a T10 miniature wedge bulb with a W2.1x9.5d base, rated at 12 volts and 5 watts.
The T10 designation refers to the bulb's tubular shape, with the number indicating its width in tenths of an inch, making it one of the most widely used miniature bulb formats in automotive lighting.
The W2.1x9.5d base is a wedge-type fitting, meaning the bulb is held in place by tension from the socket rather than by a bayonet or screw mechanism.
At 5 watts, the 12961 operates at a low power draw, which is standard for side marker applications where continuous illumination is required without significant electrical load.
The 12-volt rating of the 12961 is consistent with the standard electrical system voltage found in passenger vehicles.
Because the same bulb size is specified for both the front and rear side marker positions across the Mini Cooper (2002-2024), a single bulb type services all four side marker sockets on the vehicle.
The T10 platform has a wide range of aftermarket equivalents, though substitutions with different wattage ratings may affect socket compatibility or regulatory compliance for road use.