H series xenon ballasts – 35W, 55W and 100W slim

The 35W ballast is the standard choice, offering a good balance between brightness (3200 lumens) and bulb lifespan. The 55W ballast increases output by 40% (about 4500 lumens) for better off-road visibility, but reduces bulb lifespan. The 100W ballast is reserved for competition and extreme off-roading, with very powerful lighting. Only the 35W, with an approved bulb, is tolerated on the road. Choose a ballast with the same power as the bulb. AGM Vision offers all three power ratings.

A slim ballast is a xenon ballast in an ultra-flat format, generally measuring less than 20 mm thick, compared to 30 to 40 mm for a standard ballast. Its main advantage is that it can be installed in tight spaces behind the optics, where a conventional ballast would not fit. Despite its compactness, it delivers the same voltage regulation and power performance. AGM Vision slim ballasts include a quick start (fast start) for a rise in brightness in less than 5 seconds.

The H-series ballasts are generally universal: they work with all H1, H3, H4, H7, H8, H11, HB3, HB4 and 9012 xenon bulbs. The bulb-side connector is standardized. The only variable is the power (35W, 55W or 100W), which must match the bulb. On the power-supply side, the ballast connects to the original halogen connector via a relay wiring. No vehicle adaptation is necessary, except a possible anti-error module on CAN-Bus vehicles. AGM Vision provides the diagrams.

A quality xenon ballast has an average lifespan of 5000 to 8000 hours, which is significantly more than the bulbs it powers. Under normal use, a ballast can last 8 to 10 years without any problem. The main causes of failure are water ingress, overheating due to poor positioning, and overvoltage in the electrical circuit. Protect your ballast with a suitable fuse and install it away from moisture. AGM Vision ballasts are endurance-tested and guaranteed.

It is strongly discouraged. A 55W ballast sends more current than a 35W bulb is designed to receive, which causes overheating of the arc tube, accelerated degradation of the xenon gas, and a drastic reduction in lifespan. The bulb can also take on an abnormal tint or burst in extreme cases. Conversely, a 35W ballast on a 55W bulb will produce weak and unstable lighting. Always respect the power matching between ballast and bulb.

A power relay is strongly recommended for any H series xenon kit. The original lighting circuit is designed for halogen bulbs and may not withstand the current spike when the ballast is switched on (up to 10A for a few seconds). The relay shifts the power supply directly from the battery via a dedicated cable with a fuse, thus protecting the original circuit. Without a relay, flickering or unexpected shutdowns may occur. AGM Vision kits include the relay and wiring.