The bulb type varies by trim and system, but most 2014 Altimas with halogen headlights use H11 for the low beams and 9005 for the high beams; models equipped with factory HID headlights use HID bulbs with a ballast for the low beams. Interior and exterior auxiliary lights use standard wedge bulbs, but exact sizes depend on the location.
In practice, you’ll need to identify the specific configuration on your car (halogen vs HID headlights, presence of fog lights, and which interior lights you’re replacing). This article outlines the typical bulb types by system and how to confirm the exact bulb for your vehicle.
Headlight bulb types by lighting configuration
The following lists describe the common bulb types you’ll encounter on a 2014 Altima, broken down by whether the car uses halogen headlights or factory HID headlights.
- Halogen headlights (typical on base and mid trims)
- Low-beam bulb: H11
- High-beam bulb: 9005 (HB3)
- HID headlights (factory option on higher trims)
- Low-beam bulb: HID-type bulb (commonly from the D2S/D3S/D1S family, depending on the ballast)
- High-beam bulb: typically a separate halogen bulb or a dedicated HID configuration depending on the exact setup
Note: If you’re unsure which system your Altima uses, check the owner’s manual, the bulb socket label, or consult a Nissan dealer. Replacing HID bulbs requires matching the correct ballast and bulb type, which differs from halogen replacements.
Fog lights and other exterior bulbs
In addition to headlights, some 2014 Altima trims include fog lights. The most common bulb for fog lights on many trims is H11, though some configurations may use H16 or another size. Always verify by looking at the existing bulb or checking the vehicle’s documentation.
- Fog lights (common: H11; some trims may use H16)
Because fog-light housings vary by trim, confirm the exact bulb size before purchasing replacements.
Interior and auxiliary bulbs
Interior lighting and other small bulbs follow standard wedge-type sizes. The most common replacements for map, dome, and trunk lights fall into a couple of standard sizes, though exact locations can vary by trim.
- Map lights and dome lights: often 194 wedge bulbs
- Trunk/cargo area light: typically 194 or 168 wedge bulb, depending on the region and trim
- Vanity/mirror lights: commonly 194 wedge bulb
To be certain, remove the existing bulb and check its part number, or refer to the vehicle’s manual for the exact bulb size by location.
How to confirm the exact bulb on your car
Use these quick checks to ensure you buy the correct bulb the first time:
- Inspect the current bulb and note the part number if visible on the base.
- Check the owner’s manual or the service/parts section of Nissan’s website for your exact trim and production date.
- Look at the label on the back of the headlight housing or under the hood near the bulb socket for the recommended bulb type.
If you’re still unsure, contact a Nissan dealer or an automotive parts retailer with your vehicle’s VIN or trim level to get the exact bulb specification.
Summary
The 2014 Nissan Altima does not have a single universal bulb type. Halogen-equipped models typically use H11 for low beams and 9005 for high beams, while HID-equipped models use HID bulbs with a ballast for the low beams and often a separate high-beam arrangement. Fog lights, if present, are usually H11 (or occasionally another size depending on trim). Interior lights typically rely on 194 wedge bulbs, with some locations using 168 or similar sizes. Always verify your exact trim and bulb location to ensure a precise replacement.