Understanding the Basics

So, a light’s gone dark, or maybe a warning light pops up. Before popping the hood and yanking out the old bulb, a quick online search reveals two options: 3057 and 3157 bulbs. What’s the deal with these two? Which one’s the right fit for a ride?

Let’s break it down. First things first, check the owner’s manual to find the right bulb for the vehicle.

The Lowdown on 3057 and 3157

Both bulbs fit into the same sockets and can be used in various spots like:

• Turn signals
• Brake lights
• Reverse lights
• Daytime running lights (DRL)

At first glance, they look the same. Both are twin-filament bulbs, which means they can shine at two different brightness levels. They come in incandescent, halogen, or LED options.

The real difference? Brightness. 3157 bulbs shine way brighter than 3057s, which is why most manufacturers roll with 3157s for daytime running lights. Sure, you could technically use a 3057, but it won’t light up the road like it should.

For turn signals, brake lights, and reverse lights, either bulb can do the trick. The wattage difference is pretty much a non-issue.

How Much Brighter Are 3157 Bulbs?

Light intensity is measured in lumens or CP (Candle Power). Yep, that’s right—like the light from a candle. To put it simply, it’s an old-school way of measuring light output.

Here’s a quick conversion for those curious:

1 CP = 12.57 lumens

1 lumen = 0.0796 CP

Check out the comparison between 3057 and 3157 bulbs at low and high intensity:

Both bulbs match in high-intensity mode, but the 3157 is about 50% brighter at low intensity while only using 29% more power.

Longevity: 3057 vs. 3157

“How long does a bulb last?” is like asking, “How long is a piece of string?” It’s a mixed bag. Some bulbs burn out in months, while others stick around for years.

Generally, though, 3157 bulbs tend to outlast 3057s. Those 3157 packs often come with “extended life” written on them. Expect them to last up to 10,000 hours, while 3057s usually give up the ghost around 5,000 hours.

Which Cars Use 3157 Bulbs?

Most newer cars roll with 3157 bulbs for daytime running lights and taillights. 3057s still pop up for brake lights and turn signals.

However, every car is different. Some might use 3057s, others 3157s, or even different types altogether. Always check the owner’s manual to avoid any mishaps. Using the wrong bulb can lead to overheating and other issues.

If there’s any doubt, swing by a local mechanic. They’ll be happy to swap out the bulbs.

Note: Some LED setups, especially for daytime running lights, come in sealed units. Messing with those can void warranties, and replacing them can get pricey.

Final Thoughts: Which Bulb to Use?

The golden rule? Replace any bulb with the OEM equivalent. Stick to what was there, and it’s hard to go wrong.

Using a 3157 in place of a 3057 might cause overheating in some cases. Since 3157s draw more power, they can get hotter. If the light fixture isn’t built to handle that heat, problems could arise.

On the flip side, slapping in a 3057 where a 3157 should be means dimmer lights. It might not sound like a big deal, but it makes a difference on the road.

Plus, there’s the risk of getting pulled over if lights are too bright or too dim. Stick with the same bulb that came out, and problems should be minimal. If there’s any uncertainty, it’s always smart to consult a mechanic. Better safe than sorry!