The Mitsubishi Starion front turn signal requires a 1156 bulb size, while rear turn signals use either 1156 or 1157 bulb sizes depending on configuration. The replacement chart covers 1983 to 1989 vehicle production years with corresponding bulb size specifications.
The year-by-year compatibility chart below provides a quick reference to verify the correct bulb size for your vehicle.
The Mitsubishi Starion uses two bulb types across its turn signal positions: the 1156 and the 1157, both of which are ANSI-standardized bulbs recognized in the United States and Canada.
The 1156 is a single-filament bulb rated at 12V and 21W, fitted with a BA15s bayonet base. The single-contact bayonet base means it serves one electrical function only.
The 1157 is a dual-filament bulb rated at 12V with two wattage outputs, 21W and 5W, fitted with a BAY15d bayonet base. The offset pins of the BAY15d base prevent incorrect installation in a socket designed for that type.
Although the 1156 and 1157 share a similar physical profile and both operate on 12V, their bases are not interchangeable. The BA15s base of the 1156 has a single contact pin, while the BAY15d base of the 1157 has two offset contact pins.
The front turn signal position on the Mitsubishi Starion uses the 1156 bulb across all model years from 1983-1989.
The rear turn signal position uses the 1157 bulb for model years 1983-1987, then transitions to the 1156 bulb for 1988-1989.
Because the rear turn signal specification differs between model years, substituting a 1156 for a 1157 or vice versa in the rear position would result in a base mismatch and is not a compatible swap.