Volkswagen Cabrio Map Light Bulb Size

The Volkswagen Cabrio map light utilizes 12961 and 6411 bulb sizes for the interior lighting components. Data for the specified vehicle covers the range from 1995 to 2002.

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
2000-2002	12961
1995-1999	6411

Bulb Specifications

Description	Bulb Size
Philips part number. Miniature wedge bulb (T10) with W2.1x9.5d base. 12V, 5W.	12961
ANSI standard (US & Canada). Festoon bulb, 36mm length, SV8.5 base. 12V, 5W.	6411

Other Locations

Additional Notes

The Volkswagen Cabrio map light uses two distinct bulb types across its model years, with the 6411 festoon bulb fitted in 1995-1998 models and the 12961 wedge bulb fitted in 2000-2002 models.
The 6411 is an ANSI-standardized bulb recognized across the US and Canadian markets, while the 12961 is a Philips part number designation for a miniature wedge type.
Despite carrying different part numbers and base types, both bulbs operate at identical electrical ratings of 12 volts and 5 watts.
The 6411 is a festoon-style bulb, meaning it is cylindrical in form and held in place by spring-loaded end caps rather than a socket, with a 36mm length and an SV8.5 base.
The 12961 uses a T10 wedge form factor with a W2.1x9.5d base, which is a push-in type that seats directly into a plastic socket without a separate locking mechanism.
The differing base types between the 6411 and the 12961 make the two bulbs physically non-interchangeable, as the festoon and wedge formats require entirely different lamp holders.
The 1999 model year of the Volkswagen Cabrio marks the transition point between the two bulb types, with the 6411 festoon specification applying to that year.