Car bulbs – be visible and see more

Car bulbs are an integral part of vehicle lighting and play a key role in providing brightness and safety on the road. In the ic24.uk online store you will find a wide selection of car bulbs and inserts for xenon discharge lamps. The store's assortment includes bulbs for various types of lights, such as: low beam, high beam, position headlights, daytime running lights, fog lights, turn signals, brake lights and reversing lights. Of course, you can also buy license plate light bulbs and interior bulbs from us.

Halogen headlight bulbs

The history of automotive lighting is almost as long as the history of the automotive industry. Various solutions have been used for decades, but the breakthrough did not take place until the 1960s. It was then that halogen bulbs, more specifically H1 bulbs. Why has halogen lighting turned out to be such an innovation? The design, or more precisely, the filling of the inside of the bulb, was responsible for this. While in traditional bulbs of Edison's patent the tungsten wire was surrounded by a vacuum, in the halogen counterparts a mixture of noble gases from the halogen group was used (hence the name). Not only did the halogen technology stand out for its efficiency, but also the presence of noble gases in the bulb prevents the deposition of tungsten residues on the walls. As a result, black and grey spots that reduce light emission are eliminated.

Of course, halogen technology was further developed in the following years. Currently, the most popular halogen bulbs include: H1, H3, H4, H7, H8, H9, H11, H13, H15 and H21W. It is worth emphasizing that each type of bulb has unique features and applications, which allows you to adjust the product to your individual needs and preferences.

Exterior Lighting Bulbs

As you know, car bulbs are also installed in the interior. There are no such strict requirements here as in the case of exterior lighting, which does not mean that you can choose such bulbs at random. Knowing this, we have prepared an extensive catalogue covering exterior lighting bulbs. You can choose from: bulbs: P21W, W1W, W2W, C5W, W5W, R5W or R10W. Interestingly, some types (e.g. R10W or P21W) can also be used in turn signals or daytime running lights.

Xenon filaments

In the 90s of the twentieth century, xenon lamps began to be used in cars. The technology, which made its debut in the BMW 7 series, has been particularly popular with premium manufacturers. Xenon filaments provide higher quality light than halogens. They are also more durable, but also much more expensive. Today, more than three decades after its debut, the price is no longer so prohibitive. In addition, you can find branded replacements for many cars at acceptable prices. Of course, xenon bulbs are offered by ic24.uk. There are both bulbs with the appropriate homologation and models without it. In the light of the law, the latter should not be installed in cars driving on public roads.

When presenting the offer of ic24.uk, it is worth mentioning that the term "xenon bulbs" is imprecise, but commonly used, which makes it easier to buy. In our shop you can order xenon filaments (correct name) of such types as: D1S, D1R, D2S, D2R, D3S, D3R as well as D4S and D4R. It's good to know that the letter R stands for lens and S stands for reflector. In automotive lighting, the reflector is usually used in high beams, and the lens is used in fog and low beam.

Car LED Bulbs

The invention and popularization of diode (LED) lighting is another breakthrough in the field of automotive lighting. More and more cars have factory-installed LED lamps. LEDs are not only efficient, but also energy-efficient and durable. LEDs are also an interesting, but controversial, alternative to halogen bulbs. On the market, also in the offer of ic24.uk, there are LED bulbs available, which are installed in place of halogens. Unfortunately, the current 2023 regulations do not allow the legal use of so-called LED retrofits instead of halogens. However, it should be assumed that this legal status will change over time. Therefore, we can recommend LED bulbs for cars driving off public roads or as a replacement for bulbs used to illuminate the interior of the car or the luggage compartment.

Summary, or how to choose bulbs for your car

Car bulbs are essential vehicle lighting components that provide brightness and safety on the road. In ic24.uk store you will find a wide selection of car bulbs, including halogen headlight bulbs, exterior lighting bulbs, xenon filaments and LED bulbs. Check out the details and choose the car bulbs that suit your needs.

FAQ – Questions and answers

What is the voltage of car bulbs

Modern cars or vans use 12-volt bulbs. In vintage cars, you can come across 6 V bulbs, while in trucks, buses, 24 V bulbs are installed.

How long does a car halogen bulb last?

The estimated lifespan of a halogen bulb is 500-1000 hours. The operating time depends on the brand of bulb, the condition of the car's electrical system and the type of bulb.