The quick answer: most 2016 CX-3 models with halogen headlights use H11 for the low beam and 9005 (HB3) for the high beam. Trims or markets that offered HID or LED headlights use different bulb types. Verify your exact setup to buy the right bulbs.
Across markets and trims, the bulb type can vary based on whether the car is equipped with standard halogen projectors, optional xenon/HID headlights, or LED assemblies. To be certain, check the owner’s manual, the sticker inside the headlight housing, or the information label under the hood.
Halogen projector headlights (the most common configuration)
If your CX-3 uses halogen projector headlights, replaceable bulbs are standard in most markets. The most typical bulb sizes are listed below, but you should still confirm for your specific vehicle.
- Low beam bulb: H11
- High beam bulb: 9005 (HB3)
When replacing halogen bulbs, handle them with clean gloves or a cloth to prevent oils from your skin getting on the glass, which can shorten bulb life. Make sure the electrical connectors are secure and reseal the headlight housing properly after replacement.
Headlights with HID/Xenon kits (optional on some trims/markets)
Some higher trims or regional variants of the 2016 CX-3 offered HID (xenon) headlights. These use a ballast and xenon bulbs, which are different from standard halogen bulbs. Exact bulb types vary by ballast configuration and market.
- Typical HID bulb types depend on the ballast: D2S or D3S are common in many vehicles equipped with HID headlights
- High-beam and low-beam functions may share the same ballast with separate bulbs, or use dedicated bulbs per function depending on the design
If your vehicle is HID-equipped, you will usually replace the bulbs with the same D2S/D3S family type specified for your ballast. If you’re unsure, consult the owner’s manual or contact a Mazda technician to confirm the exact bulb code for your car.
LED headlights (less common on 2016 CX-3, varies by market)
A minority of 2016 CX-3 models offered LED headlights, depending on trim and region. In LED setups, the bulbs are typically not user-replaceable in the same way as halogen or HID units; the entire headlight module or a separate LED assembly may need replacement under warranty or service. If your CX-3 has LED headlights, verify with the manual or dealer whether you can replace a bulb or need a module replacement.
In all cases, the best path to accuracy is a quick verification step: consult the owner’s manual, look for a bulb type sticker inside the engine bay or near the headlight housing, or ask a Mazda dealer to confirm the exact bulb specification for your exact VIN and market.
What to do if you’re replacing bulbs
Before buying, identify which headlight system your CX-3 has. If you’re replacing just one bulb, consider replacing both to ensure even brightness and color. Double-check the fitment with your vehicle’s trim and regional version to avoid purchasing the wrong bulb type.
Summary: The 2016 Mazda CX-3 commonly uses H11 low-beam and 9005 high-beam bulbs for halogen headlights. Higher trims or certain markets may use HID (D2S/D3S) or LED headlights, which have different replacement requirements. Always verify the exact bulb type for your car through the owner’s manual or dealership.
Summary
Most 2016 CX-3s with halogen headlights use H11 for low beams and 9005 for high beams. If your model is equipped with HID or LED headlights, the bulb types differ (D2S/D3S for HID; LED assemblies for LED headlights). Always confirm the exact specification for your vehicle to ensure you purchase the correct bulbs and replace them safely.