Mitsubishi i-MiEV License Plate Bulb Size

The Mitsubishi i-MiEV license plate light requires a 12961 bulb size for proper illumination of the rear registration area. Data for 12961 bulbs covers the range from 2012 through 2017.

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 Size
2016-2017	12961
2014	12961
2012	12961

Bulb Specifications

Description	Bulb Size
Philips part number. Miniature wedge bulb (T10) with W2.1x9.5d base. 12V, 5W.	12961

Other Locations

Additional Notes

The Mitsubishi i-MiEV uses the 12961 bulb for its license plate lighting across all listed model years (2012-2017).
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 auxiliary lighting positions.
The T10 designation refers to the bulb's tubular shape, with the number indicating a width of 10 millimeters across the envelope.
The 12961 uses a W2.1x9.5d wedge base, a baseless design where the glass envelope itself is pinched at the bottom to form the electrical contacts, eliminating the need for a separate metal base.
The bulb operates at 12 volts and 5 watts, which is standard for low-current auxiliary positions such as license plate, courtesy, and side marker lighting.
The W2.1x9.5d base type is shared by a broad range of T10 miniature bulbs, meaning physical fitment compatibility extends across many bulbs carrying this base specification, though voltage and wattage ratings still require verification before substitution.
The i-MiEV is an electric vehicle, and its license plate circuit still operates on a 12-volt auxiliary battery system rather than the high-voltage traction battery, which is consistent with the 12V rating of the 12961 bulb.