Volvo XC90 License Plate Bulb Size

The Volvo XC90 license plate light uses DE3423 and 12961 bulb sizes for the exterior illumination components. Available data covers the span from 2003 through 2014 for the specified vehicle.

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
2007-2014	DE3423
2003-2006	12961

Bulb Specifications

Description	Bulb Size
ANSI standard (US & Canada). Festoon bulb, 41mm length, end-cap contacts. 12V.	DE3423
Philips part number. Miniature wedge bulb (T10) with W2.1x9.5d base. 12V, 5W.	12961

Other Locations

Additional Notes

The Volvo XC90 license plate position uses two distinct bulb types across its production run, specifically the DE3423 festoon bulb and the 12961 miniature wedge bulb, depending on the model year.
The DE3423 is an ANSI-standard festoon bulb recognized in both the United States and Canada. It measures 41mm in length and makes electrical contact through end-cap terminals at each end of the bulb body.
The 12961 is a Philips part number designating a T10 miniature wedge bulb. It uses a W2.1x9.5d wedge base, operates at 12V, and draws 5W of power.
The Volvo XC90 (2007-2014) uses the DE3423 festoon bulb for the license plate position.
The 12961 wedge bulb applies to the 2003-2006 model years.
The two bulb types are not interchangeable. A festoon bulb with end-cap contacts is physically and electrically incompatible with a wedge-base socket designed for a T10 bulb.
Both bulb types operate on a 12V electrical system, which is standard across conventional passenger vehicle lighting circuits.
The W2.1x9.5d base designation on the 12961 refers to a specific wedge-pin geometry, where the base width and pin spacing determine socket compatibility.
A bulb change between the 2006 and 2007 model years reflects a shift in the license plate socket type, from a wedge-base fitting to a festoon-style holder.