Phillips 12821B2 License Plate Light Bulb

License Plate Light Bulb for Exterior Lighting

The Philips Standard 12821B2 is a 12-volt incandescent license plate light bulb built for clear, direct illumination in exterior lighting applications. With a glass bulb body, BA15s base, and 5-watt output, it delivers the straightforward OE-style lighting performance many drivers look for in a replacement bulb.

Philips Standard - Twin Blister Pack is the brand’s value-focused lighting line for everyday replacement needs. It emphasizes practical fitment, standard construction, and dependable operation across a wide range of vehicles, including Mercedes-Benz G-Class, Volkswagen Jetta, BMW 3 Series-era applications, and other import and luxury models.

Key Features

• Part number: 12821B2
• 12V incandescent standard mini bulb
• Clear glass bulb with clear finish
• BA15s base for direct-fit exterior lighting applications
• 5W output with 0.42A amperage rating
• Single-filament C-2R design
• Philips Standard range value replacement

Detailed Description

This Philips 12821B2 license plate light bulb is designed for vehicles that use a standard mini bulb with a BA15s base and 12-volt electrical system. The clear incandescent construction provides familiar light output for license plate illumination and other listed exterior lighting positions. It is a practical replacement choice for drivers maintaining factory-style lighting on vehicles such as the Mercedes-Benz G500, Volkswagen Jetta, Audi A4, BMW Z3, and Porsche Boxster.

Fitment coverage spans 1965-2018 model years across many makes and models, including rear, front, inner, outer, and lower positions where specified in the catalog data. This part cross-references Four Seasons 77387 for the same application. Part number 12821B2 is also a useful reference when searching for a direct replacement bulb by application.

Common Problems This Bulb Can Address

• Dim or failed license plate lighting
• Burned-out exterior marker or rear lighting bulb
• Loss of clear illumination at the rear of the vehicle
• Need for a standard incandescent replacement in a BA15s socket
• Restoring factory-style lighting on older import and luxury vehicles

Installation Notes and Tips

Verify the bulb base, voltage, and socket style before installation. This bulb uses a BA15s base and 12V specification, so it should be matched to the vehicle’s original lighting requirement. Confirm the exact position listed for your application, especially on vehicles with rear, inner, outer, or front lighting locations. For fitment searches, examples include Fits 2011-2018 Mercedes-Benz G500, rear; Fits 2000-2005 Volkswagen Jetta, N/A; and Fits 1997-2004 Porsche Boxster, rear.

Handle the glass bulb carefully during installation and avoid touching the glass with bare hands when possible. Always compare the original bulb number and socket configuration before replacement.

Quality Assurance

Philips Standard lighting products are positioned as value-oriented replacement parts for everyday use, with construction intended to meet common automotive lighting requirements. The 12821B2 is a straightforward incandescent replacement for drivers who want a standard bulb format rather than an upgraded LED solution.