Upgrade to Xenon

[Tannaton]

It's not possible to upgrade to Xenon lamps on most if not all Volvo models by simply buying the genuine Volvo headlamps and fitting them. The way that the CEM (central electronic module) supplies electrical power to halogen lamps is very different to xenon lamps and in most cases this causes genuine xenon Volvo headlamps that are retrofitted to flicker, pulse or not work at all. This is not a simple setting in the CEM that can be changed with VIDA - it's programmed in at the factory during manufacture.

The only people to have done this successfully have set up a system of dummy load resistors to mimic the halogen lamps and then used a relay to switch power to the xenon lamps from an alternative source. This is doable but you lose the build failure warning system if you get any problems with your add on electrics - it's likely that no dealer would touch it.

I believe the above is factual for up to MY 13, I've not tried it with newer cars.

[NigelDay]

Originally Posted by prc68

All that said, I can confirm that in terms of light output the bi-xenon volvo lights will outperform both Merc and Audi intelligent LED lighting.

That's interesting. Progress (or not).

[prc68]

Originally Posted by NigelDay

That's interesting. Progress (or not).

In terms of light output (length and width of beam), Xenon is far better than what I've tried in LED, but LED also has some advantages, less moving parts, lower current consumption, and expected longer life (vs Xenon bulb). I suspect it might actually be cheaper to produce vs a full Xenon as well.

That is my opinion of course.

[NigelDay]

Originally Posted by prc68

In terms of light output (length and width of beam), Xenon is far better than what I've tried in LED, but LED also has some advantages, less moving parts, lower current consumption, and expected longer life (vs Xenon bulb). I suspect it might actually be cheaper to produce vs a full Xenon as well.

That is my opinion of course.

I suspect the best LEDs are these, featured on Audi and the latest Land Rover Discovery. The only problem is they are very expensive.
https://www.audi-technology-portal.d...er-technology1

[Ixion]

Originally Posted by prc68

Actually, I think volvo calls it the adaptive high beam control, Lights are always on mains, only section of oncoming traffic or cars in front are dimmed.

Ah I see. Yes that's on standard on SE, SE Lux and R-Design Lux, guessing yours is the R-Design?

On mine (an R-Design Lux), it works by pushing the stalk towards you and a indicator then shows on the dash. It then just switches between on and off automatically. You have to have the light setting (by the boot release) on "auto" too.

[prc68]

Think it was that way back in 2015, when I first looked to get the S60. There were 2 levels of R-design.
From 2016 on there are 4 levels: Kinetic, Momentum, summum and the R-design then you can add various packs.
Mine was ordered with the Business Connect pro pack which includes sensus connect, Premium sound, and volvo on call.
Light pack for the active xenon, headlamp washers, interior lighting, and the dimming mirrors.
Mine is missing the IntelliSafe Pro package which BLIS, adaptive Cruise and the driver alert system. This driver alert system is actually option #769 which contains collision warning the the active highbeam control.