The Tesla Roadster turn signal requires a PY21W bulb size for the front and rear lighting components. Data for the specific bulb requirements covers the range from 2008 to 2011.
The year-by-year compatibility chart below provides a quick reference to verify the correct bulb size for your vehicle.
The Tesla Roadster front turn signal position lists two separate bulb size entries per model year, indicating that more than one fitment option may apply depending on the specific vehicle configuration.
PY21W is the most frequently listed bulb type across the Tesla Roadster front turn signal specifications, appearing in both 2008-2011 entry sets.
PY21W is an ECE-standard single-filament amber bulb rated at 12V and 21W, fitted with a BAU15s bayonet base, and is used in European and worldwide automotive applications.
The BAU15s bayonet base of the PY21W features offset pins, which physically prevents it from being interchanged with bulbs that use a standard BA15s base, even though the two bases appear similar in size.
The 12496 is a Philips/Osram part number designation for a halogen bulb rated at 12V, classified as a specialty application type.
The 12496 bulb is listed for the Tesla Roadster front turn signal in 2009 and 2011, while PY21W is listed for 2008 and 2010 in the same first entry set, reflecting alternating fitment designations across model years.
Because 12496 is a manufacturer part number rather than a universal standard code, cross-referencing with ECE or SAE equivalents is necessary to confirm interchangeability with other bulb designations.
Both the 12496 and PY21W operate on a 12V electrical system, which is consistent with standard automotive low-voltage circuits.