At a glance, the bulb you need depends on whether your Charger uses halogen or HID headlights, and the trim level. If you have halogen headlights, you’re typically looking at H11 for the low beams and 9005 for the high beams. If your Charger has HID projector headlights, the low beams are usually D3S (some markets used D2S), with 9005 as the high-beam option. Always verify with the owner's manual or by inspecting the bulb base.
Identifying your headlight type
Determining the correct bulb begins with identifying whether your car uses halogen or HID headlights. This can vary by trim and production run, so check the owner’s manual, inspect the headlight housing, or look at the bulb you extract to confirm the exact base.
Halogen headlights (common on base trims)
Halogen configurations generally require:
- Low beam: H11
- High beam: 9005
Note: Fog lights, if present, may use a separate bulb type such as H11, but this is independent of the main headlights.
HID projector headlights (available on higher trims)
HID-equipped Chargers typically use:
- Low beam: D3S (some markets or production runs used D2S)
- High beam: 9005 (high beams are often a separate halogen bulb)
When dealing with HID systems, avoid handling the bulbs with bare skin and verify ballast compatibility when replacing bulbs.
Quick reference: bulb types by configuration
Use this as a practical guide while shopping, but always double-check your specific vehicle configuration.
- Halogen low beam: H11
- Halogen high beam: 9005
- HID low beam: D3S (or D2S in some variants)
- HID high beam: 9005
If you’re unsure, consult the owner’s manual or a parts specialist, and inspect the existing bulb to confirm the base before purchasing replacements.
What to check before buying or replacing
Record the exact bulb type and wattage shown in your manual, or remove the current bulb to read its markings. Buy from reputable brands, and consider replacing bulbs on both sides for even lighting performance. If your Charger uses a ballast-based HID system, ensure you handle bulbs and ballast correctly to avoid damage.
Summary
For a 2017 Dodge Charger, the bulb choice depends on headlight configuration. Halogen headlights typically require H11 for low beams and 9005 for high beams. HID projectors usually use D3S for low beams (with some markets using D2S) and 9005 for high beams. Always confirm with the owner’s manual or by inspecting the bulb base to ensure you get the correct replacement, and replace bulbs with care to maintain proper illumination.