D and H series xenon bulbs – Original replacement and performance

The D series xenon bulbs (D1S, D2S, D3S, D4S, D5S, D8S) are original HID bulbs designed for vehicles equipped with factory xenon. They work with a ballast integrated into the vehicle and produce between 2800 and 3200 lumens at 35W. The H series bulbs (H1, H3, H7), in xenon version, are conversion bulbs that require the addition of an aftermarket ballast. At AGM Vision, both series are available in all color temperatures.

Replacement D-series xenon bulbs (D1S, D2S, D3S, D4S) are ECE-approved when they comply with the original 35W power rating and are installed on a vehicle factory-equipped with xenon, with headlight washers and automatic leveling. 4300K bulbs faithfully reproduce the original lighting. On the other hand, H-series xenon conversion kits and 55W high-power bulbs are reserved for off-road use (competition, off-road). AGM Vision clearly indicates the approval on each product sheet.

The color temperature determines the hue of the lighting. At 4300K, you get a warm white identical to the original lighting, ideal for standard replacement. The 5000K offers a pure white, slightly cooler, considered the best compromise between visibility and aesthetics. The 6000K produces a very aesthetic bluish white, but with a slightly reduced range. Beyond 6000K (8000K), the lighting becomes blue-violet, reserved for show and decoration. For daily driving, AGM Vision recommends 4300K or 5000K.

The exact reference is engraved on the base of the original bulb or indicated in the vehicle’s maintenance booklet. D1S and D2S equip the majority of European vehicles produced between 2000 and 2015 and contain mercury. D3S and D4S are mercury-free versions, used since 2010 on more recent models. The R variants (D1R, D2R, D3R, D4R) are intended for reflector headlamps, while the S are for lens headlamps. Each AGM Vision product sheet specifies the compatible vehicles.

In general, the original ballast does not need to be replaced during a simple D-series xenon bulb change. The ballast has a lifespan of more than 10 years and generally outlasts several bulbs. However, if the new bulb flickers, does not turn on, or turns off after a few seconds, the ballast may be the cause. A faulty ballast delivers unstable voltage, which prematurely damages the bulb. AGM Vision offers OEM replacement ballasts and aftermarket ballasts compatible with all D series.

It is recommended to replace the two bulbs simultaneously in order to maintain uniform lighting. Over time, xenon gas degrades, and the bulb loses intensity and changes hue: a 3-year-old bulb can produce up to 30 % fewer lumens than a new bulb. Installing only one new bulb would create a visible asymmetry between the left side and the right side. AGM Vision bulbs are sold individually or in pairs, with a sliding scale price for the purchase of two identical bulbs.