The brake light on a 2016 Hyundai Sonata is typically a dual‑filament bulb in each rear housing, most commonly from the 3157 family. In most US/Global trims, you’ll be looking at a 3157‑series bulb (commonly 3157 or 3157A), but the exact variant can vary by market and production date. Verify the exact size by checking the current bulb or the owner’s manual.
Rear lighting configurations can differ slightly between trims and regions, so it’s best to confirm the precise bulb type before purchasing. Below is a practical guide to identifying the correct bulb and what sizes you’re likely to encounter on a 2016 Sonata.
How to identify the correct bulb for your Sonata
Before buying a replacement, use these methods to confirm the exact bulb size and type to ensure compatibility and brightness on your 2016 Sonata.
- Check the owner’s manual or Hyundai’s official parts diagram for the exact bulb specification that matches your trim and production date.
- Remove the current bulb from the rear light housing and read any numbers printed on the glass or base (for example, 3157, 3157A, or a similar designation).
- Match the bulb’s base type and dual‑filament design to a reliable replacement from a trusted brand (e.g., Sylvania, Philips) to ensure correct fit and brightness.
- Consider replacing both rear bulbs at the same time to maintain consistent brightness and color across the lights.
Using these steps helps ensure you purchase the correct 3157‑series bulb for the brake/taillight on your 2016 Sonata and avoid mismatches with other rear lighting functions.
Common sizes you may encounter
In most 2016 Sonata rear lighting setups, the brake/taillight element uses a dual‑filament 3157‑series bulb. The exact variant (3157, 3157A, or closely related sub‑variants) can depend on your vehicle’s market and production date. Always verify with the bulb in your socket or the official Hyundai parts catalog before purchasing a replacement.
- 3157 or 3157A: The most typical dual‑filament size for tail and brake functions on many Hyundai rear lamps.
- 3157K or similar variants: Some markets or suppliers use alternate designations for the same base with different brightness or life characteristics.
If you’re still uncertain, consult Hyundai’s official parts lookup or visit an auto parts store with your VIN to confirm the exact bulb size for your car’s rear lighting assembly.
Additional notes and replacement tips
Some trim levels or regional variants could differ or use LED assemblies for the rear clusters. If your 2016 Sonata uses LED brake lights, there may not be a replaceable bulb at all, and you would service the LED modules instead. For incandescent bulbs, the above guidance applies; always replace in matched pairs to keep color and brightness even.
Summary
The typical brake/taillight bulb for a 2016 Hyundai Sonata is a dual‑filament 3157‑series bulb (commonly 3157 or 3157A). Because variations exist by trim and market, confirm the exact bulb by inspecting the current bulb, checking the owner's manual or a Hyundai parts catalog, and, if possible, replacing both sides together to maintain even lighting.