Discover our collection of universal LED, halogen, and specialty bulbs for your semi-truck. Upgrade your dash, headlights, and clearance lights with high-quality, long-lasting bulbs that meet DOT standards. Our bulbs will keep your truck looking great and are a variety of popular models.
Frequently Asked Questions About Semi-Truck Universal Bulbs
How do I know which bulb size fits my truck's headlights, taillights, or marker lights?
Check your owner's manual for the specific bulb number, or look at the base of your existing bulb where the part number is typically printed (like H11, 9005, 1157, etc.). For quick reference, most semi-trucks use H11 or 9005/9006 for headlights, 3157 or 1157 for brake/turn signals, and 194 or 168 for marker lights. If you're still unsure, remove the old bulb and bring it to compare, or contact us with your truck's year, make, and model for assistance.
What's the real difference between standard halogen and LED bulbs for semi-trucks?
LED bulbs typically last 30,000-50,000 hours compared to 500-1,000 hours for halogen, making them ideal for commercial vehicles with high usage. LEDs draw less power (reducing alternator strain), produce brighter light output, and generate less heat. However, some older trucks may require load resistors for LED turn signals to prevent hyper-flashing, and certain models might show dashboard warning lights with LED conversions. Initial cost is higher for LEDs, but most drivers see payback within 6-12 months through reduced replacement frequency.
Will universal bulbs work with my truck's electrical system without modifications?
Most universal bulbs are designed as direct plug-and-play replacements for standard configurations. However, when switching from halogen to LED, trucks built before 2010 may require load resistors or flasher relay replacements to maintain proper turn signal timing. Some Freightliner, Peterbilt, and Kenworth models with CANbus systems might need CANbus-compatible LEDs to avoid error messages. Always verify voltage compatibility (12V or 24V) with your truck's system before purchasing.
Why do my new bulbs keep burning out or flickering?
Premature bulb failure usually indicates electrical issues rather than bulb quality. Common causes include voltage spikes (check your alternator output - should be 13.5-14.5V when running), corroded connections creating resistance, or moisture in the housing. Flickering often results from loose ground connections or incompatible dimmer switches with LED bulbs. Clean all connections with electrical contact cleaner, ensure proper grounding, and verify your voltage regulator is functioning correctly before replacing bulbs again.
Can I mix different bulb types (LED and halogen) on my truck?
While technically possible, mixing bulb types isn't recommended for safety and legal reasons. Different bulb types produce varying light colors and intensities - LEDs typically emit 6000K white light while halogens produce 3000K yellow light. This mismatch can reduce visibility and may fail DOT inspections in some states. Additionally, mixed bulb types on the same circuit can cause electrical imbalances. For best results and compliance, convert all bulbs in a lighting group (like all headlights or all marker lights) at the same time.
