Volvo S60 Back Up Light Bulb Size

The Volvo S60 back up light utilizes H21W and P21W bulb sizes for the lighting components. Data for the specific bulb requirements covers the range from 2001 through 2018.

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
2011-2018	H21W
2001-2009	P21W

Bulb Specifications

Description	Bulb Size
ECE standard (Europe & worldwide). Single-filament signalling bulb with BAY9s base. 12V, 21W.	H21W
ECE standard (Europe & worldwide). Single-filament signalling bulb with BA15s bayonet base. 12V, 21W.	P21W

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Additional Notes

The Volvo S60 backup light bulb specifications cover model years 2001-2018, with two distinct bulb types used across that span.
The H21W is the specified backup light bulb for the Volvo S60 across the 2011-2018 model years.
The P21W is the specified backup light bulb for the 2001-2009 model years.
Both the H21W and P21W are ECE-standard single-filament signalling bulbs rated at 12V and 21W, meaning they share identical voltage and wattage ratings.
Despite matching electrical ratings, the H21W and P21W are not interchangeable, as they use different base types.
The H21W uses a BAY9s base, which features offset pins to ensure correct orientation during installation.
The P21W uses a BA15s bayonet base, a single-contact design with symmetrically placed pins.
The BAY9s base of the H21W is physically incompatible with sockets designed for the BA15s base of the P21W, making cross-substitution between the two generations impossible without socket modification.
Both bulb types conform to ECE regulations, indicating they are recognized standards used across European and international vehicle markets.
The single-filament construction of both bulbs means each serves one lighting function only, with no secondary filament for combined stop or tail light duties.