Most 2013 Expeditions with the standard headlights use halogen bulbs: low beams are H11 and high beams are 9005. If your vehicle was equipped with the factory HID headlights, it uses D3S bulbs with ballast. Fog lights, when present, typically use H11. Exact bulb type can vary by trim and options, so check your build or inspect the headlight assembly to be sure.
Understanding which bulb your specific Expedition uses depends on the trim level and optional equipment. This article breaks down the typical bulb types by configuration and explains how to identify which system you have, plus tips for replacement.
Bulb configurations for the 2013 Ford Expedition
Halogen headlights are the most common configuration on base and mid-range trims. The bulbs used are:
- Low beam: H11 (55W)
- High beam: 9005 HB3 (65W)
- Fog lights: typically H11, if your model is equipped with fog lamps
Halogen setups cover the majority of 2013 Expeditions; however, some higher-trim models offered factory HID headlights, which use a different bulb family and require a ballast.
For Expeditions equipped with factory HID headlights, the low beams use:
- Low beam: D3S (with ballast)
- High beam: typically a separate halogen bulb (commonly 9005 HB3), though some packages may offer HID for high beams as well
In HID configurations, the presence of a ballast and the absence of a standard halogen socket near the low-beam area indicate D3S use for the low beams. Check the headlamp housing or service information for your specific VIN to confirm.
How to verify which bulb you have
To confirm, you can:
- Consult the owner’s manual or Ford’s official parts list for your exact trim and option code
- Inspect the back of the headlight assembly for ballast hardware (HID) versus a standard bulb socket (halogen)
- Check the replacement bulb packaging or the bulb socket code when purchasing parts
These checks will help you identify the exact bulb family installed in your headlights, which is important for proper replacement and compatibility.
Summary
The 2013 Ford Expedition typically uses H11 low-beam and 9005 high-beam halogen bulbs. An optional factory HID package uses D3S bulbs with ballast for the low beams, with high beams often as a separate (typically halogen) unit depending on the exact trim. Verify your specific vehicle by checking the owner's manual, VIN, or inspecting the headlight assembly for ballast and bulb sockets to ensure you buy the correct replacement.