Volvo 164 License Plate Bulb Size

The Volvo 164 license plate light requires 211-2 and DE3423 bulb sizes for the rear exterior lighting components. Data for the specific vehicle covers the range from 1969 to 1975.

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
1973-1975	DE3423
1969-1972	211-2

Bulb Specifications

Description	Bulb Size
ANSI standard (US & Canada). Festoon bulb, 41mm length, end-cap contacts. 12V.	DE3423
ANSI standard (US & Canada). Festoon bulb, 41mm length, SV8.5 base. 12V, 12W.	211-2

Other Locations

Additional Notes

The Volvo 164 license plate bulb specifications cover model years 1969-1975, split across two bulb types: the 211-2 for 1969-1972 and the DE3423 for 1973-1975.
Both the DE3423 and 211-2 are festoon-style bulbs, meaning they are cylindrical in form and mount by pressing lengthwise between two spring clips or contact holders rather than inserting into a socket.
Both bulbs share a 41mm length and operate at 12 volts, making them physically similar in overall size and electrically compatible with the same vehicle charging system.
Despite their shared length and voltage rating, the DE3423 and 211-2 use different contact configurations. The DE3423 uses end-cap contacts, while the 211-2 uses an SV8.5 base, which is a standardized festoon base with a specific cap design.
The SV8.5 designation on the 211-2 refers to a base width of 8.5mm, a standardized measurement within the festoon bulb family that determines socket compatibility.
The differing base types between the DE3423 and 211-2 mean the two bulbs are not directly interchangeable, even though their lengths are identical.
The 211-2 carries a rated wattage of 12W, a value that reflects its power draw and heat output, which are relevant factors in housing and lens compatibility.
Both bulbs conform to ANSI standards applicable in the United States and Canada, indicating they meet the electrical and dimensional tolerances defined by that standardization body for the North American market.