For most 2018 Silverado models with incandescent tail lights, the tail/stop/turn bulb is a 3157 dual-filament bulb (3157K variant is used for amber turn signals). If your Silverado uses LED tail lights, there is no replaceable tail-light bulb—the LEDs are built into the housing. Always verify the exact size for your build in the owner's manual or by inspecting the bulb/socket.
Understanding the tail-light options on the 2018 Silverado
The 2018 Silverado offered both incandescent and LED rear lighting depending on trim and options. The incandescent setup uses replaceable bulbs, while LED tail lights use integrated LED modules that do not accept individual bulbs. The most common incandescent bulb used in the tail section is the 3157 family, which covers tail, brake, and turn functions in a single unit.
Incandescent tail lights: common bulb sizes
Before replacing bulbs, confirm you have the incandescent tail-light assembly. The sizes below are the typical ones you may encounter:
- Tail/Brake/Turn signal (dual-filament): 3157. Some trims use 3157K for amber turn signals.
Notes: Bulb sizes are sometimes listed in the owner’s manual or on the bulb/socket itself. If your vehicle has a different configuration, the exact size may vary.
LED tail lights
If your 2018 Silverado uses LED tail lights, there is no bulb to replace in the tail-light portion. LED modules are designed to last many years; when replacement is needed, it typically involves the entire assembly rather than a single bulb.
How to confirm the exact bulb size for your truck
Because Chevrolet offered multiple rear-light options, the precise bulb size can differ by trim and production date. Use these methods to verify the correct bulb for your vehicle:
- Consult the owner's manual section on bulbs and lighting for your exact model year.
- Inspect the tail light assembly: check the bulb designation printed on the bulb or socket.
- Cross-check with a parts retailer or GM dealer using your VIN or exact trim to confirm the correct bulb (e.g., 3157 vs 3157K).
When replacing bulbs, use the recommended wattage and avoid mixing dual-filament bulbs, which can affect courtesy lights and braking signals. Handle bulbs with clean hands to prevent oils from causing hot spots.
Further considerations
Other rear lighting components, such as the reverse light and license plate light, use their own bulb sizes and should be checked separately if you’re replacing multiple bulbs at once.
Summary
The standard incandescent rear-tail light on a 2018 Chevy Silverado typically uses a 3157 dual-filament bulb (3157K variant for amber turn signals in some trims). If your truck is equipped with LED tail lights, there is no replaceable tail-light bulb. Always verify the exact bulb type for your specific build via the owner’s manual or a parts diagram, as configurations vary by trim and production date.
Is the tail light bulb the same as the brake light bulb?
Brake lights and tail lights may appear similar and often use the same bulb, but they serve distinct purposes.
What bulb is the brake bulb in the 2018 Silverado 1500?
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (2016-2018) Bulb Size Chart
| Headlights High + Low Beam (HID) | D5S |
|---|---|
| Brake Light (Rear) | 7443 (7440) |
| Brake Light (High-Mounted) | T15 (912 921) |
| Reverse Light (Back-Up Light) | T15 (912 921) |
| Side Marker Light (Front) | 7443 (7440) |
Are 3157 and 4057 the same bulb?
A: Kenny, yes, these standard 3157 brilliant red LED bulbs will fit 4057K. The 3157 bulbs will replace many size bulbs such as 3156, 3057, 3056, 4157, 3157K etc. And there isn't somethig different between 4057 and 4057k, just the named method is different.
What is the best oil for a Chevy truck?
The top Chevy Silverado 1500 oil is ACDelco dexos1 SAE 0W-20 full synthetic motor oil for the 5.3L and 6.2L gasoline engines.