LED High-Beam Upgrade 2008 XC90

[benmc1101]

I have a 2008 XC90, and I need new high-beams in order to pass state inspection. Instead of putting the standard factory replacements in the headlight, I want some good aftermarket LED(?) high-beam lights. I would like something rather affordable, fun (color-changing? ), bright, cool-looking, and one that won't cause any issues with the car or trip any codes. Reliable lights that won't stop working in six months would also be good to have. Any suggestions or recommendations??

[JNavas]

You have at least two problems to solve:
1. Heat dissipation. Bulbs with high output generate a lot of heat that's difficult to get rid of.
2. CAN BUS. Low load of LED bulbs generates CAN BUS errors.
Solutions to these problems tend to be non-trivial. Additional problems may include
size and shape, water sealing, compatibility with reflector and lens, beam shape, etc.
Simplest alternative is to stick with high intensity halogen bulbs
(e.g., GE Nighthawk Platinum, Sylvania SilverStar Ultra),
but be warned that bulb life goes down rapidly as intensity goes up.
Lastly, colored halogen bulbs are inherently less bright and effective than white.

[Rattnalle]

The easy option is still high quality halogens.

For more light xenons are still a better option than retrofit leds as long as the slight warmup isn't something that bothers you.

Why didn't you pass BTW? Didn't work at all?