In most 2016 Hyundai Tucson rear lamps, the brake/taillight uses a dual-filament bulb in the 3157 family. Some early builds or regional variations may use a 7443. The exact bulb can be confirmed by inspecting the current bulb or consulting the owner's manual.
Typical bulb sizes for the 2016 Tucson rear lights
Rear combination lamps on the Tucson commonly use a dual-filament bulb that handles both the tail and brake functions. The most commonly encountered options are listed below, but you should verify by checking the bulb in your car or consulting Hyundai’s documentation for your VIN and market.
- 3157 or 3157NA (dual-filament bulb used for both tail and brake lights)
- 7443 (another dual-filament style used on some production runs or markets)
- 1157 (older, less common in new models but possible in certain regional specs)
When shopping, you’ll often see these sizes offered in standard halogen or upgraded LED replacements. The exact type may vary by region and production batch, so it’s important to confirm the correct bulb for your vehicle.
How to verify the exact bulb for your vehicle
Use these steps to confirm the correct bulb on your specific 2016 Tucson. This helps avoid buying the wrong part and having to return it.
- Park the car on a level surface and turn off the ignition. Engage the parking brake for safety.
- Open the rear hatch and inspect the tail lamp assembly. If needed, remove any trim panels or screws to access the bulb.
- Carefully remove the bulb socket from the lamp housing. Note the bulb’s base type and how it sits in the socket.
- Read any markings on the bulb itself (often visible on the glass base, such as “3157,” “7443,” etc.). If the bulb isn’t legible, compare the socket shape to common bulb bases or photograph it for a parts store.
- Consult the owner’s manual or an official Hyundai service document for your exact market/trim to confirm the recommended bulb size.
- Cross-check with a parts retailer or the dealership using your VIN if you’re still unsure. If replacing both sides, you’ll typically need two bulbs (one for each rear lamp).
Having the correct bulb ensures proper brake brightness and tail-light functionality, and it helps you avoid electrical compatibility issues or bulb-out warnings.
Where to buy and what to consider
You can source replacement bulbs from automotive retailers and online stores. Consider these options and tips to ensure compatibility and performance:
- OEM-equivalent bulbs (3157/7443 family) from brands like Sylvania, Philips, Osram, or GE.
- Halogen replacements for a direct drop-in fit if you’re sticking with the factory design; LED replacements are available but may require resistors or CAN bus compatibility checks in some vehicles.
- If you’re replacing both sides, buy two identical bulbs to maintain uniform brightness and color.
Before finalizing a purchase, confirm the bulb size with your manual, the current bulb, or a Hyundai dealer to ensure you’re selecting the correct type for your specific Tucson’s market and trim.
Summary
The 2016 Hyundai Tucson typically uses a dual-filament bulb in the 3157 family for the rear brake/taillight, though some builds may use 7443. Verify by inspecting the current bulb or checking the owner’s manual, and replace bulbs in pairs to maintain balanced lighting. If in doubt, consult the dealership or a trusted parts retailer with your vehicle’s VIN for precise guidance.