The main rear brake/taillights on a 2003 Camry use 3157 dual-filament bulbs. The center high-mount brake light (the third brake light) uses a different bulb type or LED module depending on trim. For accuracy, always verify by inspecting the housing or consulting the owner's manual.
Rear brake/taillight bulb sizes by position
These are the typical sizes and configurations you’ll encounter on the US-market 2003 Camry. Note that trims or non-US markets may differ, so verify before buying replacements.
Outer rear taillights (left and right)
Replacement bulbs for the outer taillights are usually the same size on both sides.
- 3157 dual-filament bulbs per outer taillight housing (provides tail and brake illumination).
Replacing in pairs helps maintain even brightness and color between the two outer taillights.
Center high-mounted brake light (CHMSL)
The center brake light is a separate assembly and typically uses a different bulb type or an LED module, depending on trim level. Verify the exact bulb or module for your vehicle.
- CHMSL bulb or LED module varies by trim; check the manual or remove the unit to read markings.
Since the CHMSL is not always a standard 3157, confirming by inspection prevents incorrect replacements.
How to verify the exact bulb in your Camry
To ensure you purchase the correct replacement the first time, follow these steps.
- Inspect the bulb directly: remove it from the housing and read any numbers stamped on the base or glass (for example, 3157 or another designation).
- Consult the owner’s manual or a repair guide for your exact trim level to confirm bulb specifications for both the outer taillights and CHMSL.
- Bring the old bulb to an auto parts store to match base, wattage, and filament configuration if you’re unsure from memory.
- Consider replacing both outer taillight bulbs at once to maintain consistent brightness and color.
In practice, most 2003 Camry owners end up with 3157 bulbs for the outer brake/taillights, while the CHMSL requires a different type that is specific to the trim. Verifying in person avoids mispairs and ensures proper fit.
Summary
For a 2003 Toyota Camry, the standard rear brake/taillight bulbs are 3157 dual-filament units. The center high-mount brake light uses a different bulb type or an LED module, depending on the trim. Always confirm by checking the bulb itself or referring to the owner’s manual, and consider replacing both outer taillights in tandem to maintain consistent illumination.