Bulb types on a 2017 Nissan Altima vary by trim and lighting package. In most base models with halogen headlights, expect H11 for low beams, 9005 for high beams, and H11 for fog lights. Some trims use HID or LED headlights, which use different bulb types or modules. Interior and license-plate lights typically use standard wedge bulbs such as 194 or 168. Always confirm the exact bulb type for your car by checking the owner's manual or inspecting the bulb itself.
The following sections break down the common configurations you’ll encounter and how to identify the correct bulbs for your specific Altima.
Headlights and fog lights: standard, HID, or LED configurations
Before listing common configurations, note that the exact bulb type depends on your trim and market. The items below cover typical setups seen on 2017 Altimas.
- Halogen headlights (common on base trims): Low beams typically use H11; high beams use 9005; fog lights, when equipped, are usually H11 as well.
- HID headlights (optional on higher trims): The headlight bulbs are HID (commonly in the D-series like D2S or D3S variants) and require the proper ballast. Fog lights, if present with HID, may use an HID bulb or a halogen equivalent depending on the package.
- LED headlights (rare options): If your Altima has LED headlights, the system uses LED modules rather than replaceable bulbs, so bulb-level replacements aren’t typical; refer to Nissan for service options.
Bottom line: halogen, HID, and LED configurations each have different replacement bulbs or modules; verify your exact trim’s setup to get the correct bulb.
Other exterior bulbs: turn signals, license plates, and more
These exterior lighting elements follow base practices, but exact bases can vary by trim. Check your manual or inspect the socket for certainty.
- Fog lights (if your trim includes them): usually halogen H11; if your model uses HID fogs, the bulb type will be the HID variant used in that package.
- Front and rear turn signals: each uses a dedicated bulb base, which varies by trim; confirm the exact base from the owner’s manual or by pulling a bulb for the base code.
- License plate lights and rear trunk/cargo lights: typically wedge bulbs such as 194 or 168, but bases can differ by trim; verify the exact base before purchasing.
Conclusion: exterior lighting components beyond the headlights depend on trim and market; the exact bulb bases should be confirmed via the manual or by inspecting the current bulbs.
Interior and miscellaneous bulbs: cabin lights and more
Interior lighting also depends on the specific interior trim and package. Commonly used bulb types are familiar wedge or festoon formats, but exact bases vary.
- Dome lights and map lights: often wedge bulbs (such as 194 or 168) or small festoon bulbs, depending on the fixture location.
- Glove box and cargo area lights: usually the same family of wedge or festoon bulbs as other interior lighting; exact base depends on the assembly.
Conclusion: interior bulbs on a 2017 Altima generally fall into the same family of wedge or festoon bulbs, but exact bases should be confirmed for your specific trim.
How to confirm the exact bulb type for your car
To ensure you buy the correct bulbs, use these steps: check the owner’s manual’s bulb chart, inspect the bulb or socket for base markings after removing it, and bring the existing bulb to an auto parts store if you’re unsure. If your car uses HID or LED headlamps, replacement may involve ballast or module components, which should be handled according to Nissan’s service guidelines.
Summary
For a 2017 Nissan Altima, the most common halogen setup uses H11 low-beam headlights, 9005 high beams, and H11 fog lights. Higher trims may use HID or LED headlamps, which involve different replacement components. Exterior small bulbs (license plate, turn signals, trunk lights) and interior lighting typically use standard wedge bulbs such as 194 or 168, though bases vary by trim. Always verify by consulting the owner’s manual or checking the actual bulb markings to ensure you purchase the correct bulbs for your exact vehicle configuration.