The tail light on a 2011 Ford Escape uses a 3157 dual-filament bulb (3157 or 3157A variants may appear depending on the production date).
In more detail, the rear tail/stop/turn function typically shares a single 3157 bulb per side within the tail-light assembly, while the reverse light is a separate bulb. Bulb numbers can vary slightly by trim or manufacturing date, so it’s best to verify by inspecting the bulb in your vehicle or consulting the owner's manual.
Bulb specifics for the 2011 Escape
These are the typical bulbs you’ll find in the rear lighting assembly. Take a moment to confirm the exact one before purchasing replacements.
- Tail/stop/turn bulb (per side): 3157 dual-filament bulb. Some early-2011 builds may use a 3157A variant, which is essentially the same function with a slightly different design.
- Reverse (backup) light bulb (per side): a separate bulb, commonly a 921 wedge bulb.
In practice, replacing both sides at the same time can help ensure even brightness and avoid mismatched lighting on the vehicle. Verify the exact bulb by removing the socket and comparing with the replacement or the parts diagram for your VIN.
Variations by production date
Occasionally, early or late production batches for the 2011 Escape used small variant differences within the 3157 family. If you find a slightly different 3157-type bulb (for example, 3157A or a similar variant), it should still fit the same socket and function the same way in the tail-light assembly.
When in doubt, bring the removed bulb to an auto parts store or check Ford’s official parts lookup to confirm the exact match for your VIN.
Summary
For a 2011 Ford Escape, the standard tail light bulb is a 3157 dual-filament bulb per rear side, handling tail, brake, and turn functions. The backup light uses a separate bulb, typically a 921 wedge. Always verify against your vehicle’s manual or by inspecting the actual bulb, as production date and trim can introduce minor variant numbers. Replacing both sides in pairs can help maintain even lighting.