question on spare key hack

Post by **Grantkat** » 10 Jul 2026, 07:11

Another task I am combining with my dash repair will be the key hack. I have a spare immobilizer ring. I plan to connect it to the harness with my programmed key and tuck it under the dash and then use unprogrammed keys.
I have seen a couple threads that say you must remove the chip from the unprogrammed keys or they will interfere with it? is that correct?

Post by **scot850** » 10 Jul 2026, 08:42

Nope. I have a remove starter fitted and the key is hidden under the dash to allow the car to start. It has been in the car for 14 years and no issues. I have not tried to see if it would work with a non-chipped key. Our 2 keys we use for the car are both OE chipped programmed keys.

Neil.

Post by **Krons** » 10 Jul 2026, 16:33

My 05 XC90 had the chip in the fob die. I was determined not to pay $150+ for a key. My chipped spare is under the dash and a local locksmith cut these…no interference issues.

Post by **Grantkat** » 10 Jul 2026, 16:57

just to be clear...after securing the key to the immobilizer, I can use keys that have the chip in them but not programmed... correct?

Post by **Krons** » 10 Jul 2026, 21:14

Grantkat wrote: 10 Jul 2026, 16:57 just to be clear...after securing the key to the immobilizer, I can use keys that have the chip in them but not programmed... correct?

Correct. My eBay ones supposedly had a chip in them…not sure/didn’t care as they only need to turn the tumblers in the steering column. Also I pushed the real chipped key/transponder pretty far forward so doubt another key would get a signal to it anyway.

Post by **Grantkat** » 11 Jul 2026, 05:11

ok Thats awesome thanks!!

Post by **Sveedy** » 11 Jul 2026, 08:15

So I have read about this issue before, but am completely ignorant on the particulars. Is there a general write up on what exactly is needed, and how to do it ? My '99 only has one key, and of course I'd like to have a spare.
What is the immobilizer, and where is it located ?
Is it a part I can get from the junkyard ?
Does it get spliced into the wiring ?
Is this a 850 issue as well ?

As I said, I'm completely and totally clueless on this.

Post by **abscate** » 11 Jul 2026, 08:55

It is a trip to the dealer or someone with VIDA and an subscription to Volvo services for a North American 1999 model

Post by **Sveedy** » 11 Jul 2026, 11:49

^ ? Grantkat's is a '99...
Now I'm even more confused.

Post by **abscate** » 11 Jul 2026, 14:29

Ah, if you want to go that route, you can skip the dealer. They will cut an unprogrammed key for you for about $50, then you put your one programmed key into the spare antenna ring, and use the unchipped key to start/run

You eventually will get a code for “ key in too long” but that’s non fatal