D2S xenon bulb – OEM original replacement

The D2S is one of the most common xenon bulbs, fitted to many vehicles produced between 1996 and 2015. It is found in particular on the BMW 3 and 5 Series, Audi A4 and A6, Mercedes C-Class and E-Class, Volkswagen Passat, Opel Astra, as well as on Japanese models such as Subaru and Honda. The D2S works with a separate ballast (unlike the D1S, which has the ballast integrated). Consult the AGM Vision product sheets, with compatibility tables, to confirm your vehicle’s reference.

The D2S is intended for projector lens optics, where the lens itself creates the beam cutoff. The D2R is designed for parabolic reflector optics and includes an opaque shield painted on the glass to ensure the beam cutoff. Both use the same ballast and the same base, but are not interchangeable. A D2S in a reflector optic causes dangerous glare. Check the type of optic and the reference engraved on the original bulb.

No, the D2S and the D4S are not directly interchangeable. Although the D4S is the mercury-free version of the D2S, they use different ballasts, with distinct ignition voltages and frequencies. Installing a D4S on a D2 ballast can cause a malfunction or damage the bulb and the ballast. To switch to mercury-free, you would also need to replace the ballast, which represents a significant cost and modification. AGM Vision recommends keeping the original reference.

The D2 ballast stands out for its specific 4-pin connector, which powers the bulb separately (unlike D1/D3, with integrated ballast). The most common D2 ballasts carry the references Hella 5DV, Valeo LAD5G or Bosch AL. They deliver an ignition voltage of around 20,000 to 25,000 volts, then regulate to 85 volts during operation. The ballast is generally mounted in the engine compartment, close to the headlamp unit. AGM Vision offers OEM and aftermarket D2-compatible ballasts.

Yes, a warm-up time of a few seconds is normal for xenon bulbs. The D2S reaches about 80% of its brightness in 1 to 2 seconds and its full power in 15 to 30 seconds. If the delay exceeds 30 seconds or if the bulb flickers during the power ramp-up, this may indicate a tired ballast or a bulb at the end of its life. A new AGM Vision bulb should reach stable brightness in less than 20 seconds with a ballast in good condition.

First-generation D2S xenon bulbs contain a small amount of mercury (about 1 mg), mixed with metal salts in the arc tube. Mercury contributes to the stability of the electric arc and to achieving the correct color temperature. Since European environmental regulations, the mercury-free D3S and D4S series have gradually replaced them. For vehicles still equipped with D2S, it is advisable to recycle used bulbs at a recycling center. AGM Vision recommends responsible handling.