The most common setup for a 2011 Sonata with halogen headlights uses H11 for the low-beam headlights, 9005 for the high-beam headlights, and H11 for the fog lights where equipped. If your car has factory HID headlights, the bulb type will be different (D2S or D3S with ballast). Other bulb types (rear lights, turn signals, reverse lights, license plate lights, and interior lights) vary by trim and market, so verify using the manual or a parts lookup for your exact configuration.
Headlights and fog lights
Use this list to identify the bulbs that illuminate the front of the vehicle in low/high beam and fog conditions. Note that trims with HID headlights use a different bulb type and do not use these halogen bulbs in the headlight assembly.
- Low-beam headlights: H11 (halogen projector headlights are common on base and mid trims)
- High-beam headlights: 9005 (HB3) commonly used on most trims
- Front fog lights: H11 (if your trim includes fog lights; some markets use H11 or H8 variants)
- Optional HID headlights: D2S or D3S bulbs with ballast (only if your car is equipped with factory HID)
In most cases, the low beam is H11 and the high beam is 9005, with the fogs using H11 if equipped. If your car has HID headlights, you will need the appropriate HID bulbs instead of these halogen types.
Rear lighting, signals, and other exterior bulbs
This section covers the bulbs for tail/brake lights, turn signals, reverse lights, and license plate lighting. Exact sizes can vary by market and trim, so check your manual or parts lookup for your specific configuration.
- Tail/brake lights and rear turn signals: commonly 3157/3157A or 7443/7440 variants (dual-filament or single-filament depending on the assembly)
- Backup/reverse lights: typically 921 (some markets use 912)
- License plate light: usually a small wedge bulb such as W5W/194 or 168 depending on the assembly
- Interior cabin/reading lights (if applicable): often 194 or 168 wedges
Because variations exist by region and trim, your exact sizes may differ. Use your manual or a parts lookup to confirm the precise bulbs for your vehicle.
How to verify your exact bulb sizes
Follow these steps to confirm the right bulbs for your specific 2011 Sonata:
- Consult the owner's manual or the Bulbs section for a reference chart.
- Check the driver’s door jamb label or under-hood fuse/relay box for bulb type references.
- Inspect the bulb currently installed in each position for the size stamped on the base.
- Use an OEM parts catalog or Hyundai’s official parts lookup by VIN/trim to verify exact sizes for your configuration.
- When replacing, keep a spare of the exact type or order by part number to ensure proper fit.
If in doubt, contact a Hyundai dealer or a trusted automotive parts retailer to confirm the bulb types for your exact trim and region.
Summary
For most 2011 Sonatas with halogen headlights, expect H11 for low beams, 9005 for high beams, and H11 for fog lights if equipped. Rear lighting bulbs vary, with common options including 3157/3157A and 7443/7440 for tail/brake and turn signals, 921 for reverse lights, and small wedges like W5W/194 for license plate and interior lights. Always verify with the owner’s manual or a reliable parts lookup to account for trim and regional differences. Keeping a quick reference in your car helps ensure you have the right replacements when needed.