The 2009 Acura TSX can use two different headlight configurations depending on trim and market: a halogen setup or factory HID headlights. The bulb you need depends on which system your car uses.
For most base 2009 TSX models with halogen headlights, the low-beam bulb is H11 and the high-beam bulb is 9005. If your TSX has factory HID headlights, the bulbs are xenon and come in D2S or D3S formats, requiring the matching ballast for operation.
Halogen headlight configuration (base models)
If your TSX is equipped with halogen headlights, here are the typical bulb types you’ll encounter for the main beams:
- Low beam: H11
- High beam: 9005
- Fog lights (if equipped): H11
Halogen-equipped TSX models standardly use H11 for the low-beam and 9005 for the high-beam; fog light bulbs, when present, are commonly H11 as well.
HID headlight configuration (factory HID headlights)
For models with factory HID headlights, the headlight bulbs are xenon and must be matched to the ballast installed in the vehicle. Bulbs can be either D2S or D3S depending on the specific ballast used in your car.
- Bulb type: D2S or D3S (depends on the ballast)
- Important note: Replacements require the correct ballast and compatible components; simply swapping to a halogen bulb will not work
- Verification: Confirm your exact bulb type by checking the owner’s manual, VIN, or consulting a dealer/parts specialist
In HID-equipped TSXs, you must use the appropriate xenon bulb paired with the correct ballast; this is not a straightforward halogen bulb swap.
How to confirm your exact bulb type on your vehicle
To avoid buying the wrong bulb, inspect the headlight assembly for the bulb base, check the owner’s manual or service literature, and, if needed, use a VIN-based parts lookup or ask a dealer to verify the exact bulb type for your car’s trim and production date.
Summary
In short, a 2009 Acura TSX can take either halogen bulbs (low beam H11, high beam 9005, fogs typically H11) or HID bulbs (D2S or D3S, with the ballast). Always confirm your exact configuration through the owner's manual or a trusted parts source before purchasing replacements. If in doubt, consult a professional installer to ensure correct bulb type and ballast compatibility.