dealership unable to code new key

darylrobert · Post by **darylrobert** » 30 Jul 2026, 05:52

dealership had car for 3 hours and were unable to code a new key? paid for software download and 3 hours labour. After searching google i found dealerships not knowing how to delete old/lost keys, apparently you need to remove old keys then add the new keys...anyone else with ideas of why is not working??..... i was also told i will be charged for labour again to get it working.... i will ring them tomorrow.

: new key not registering; volvo key registration.jpg (49.9 KiB) Viewed 649 times

Post by **vtl** » 30 Jul 2026, 07:44

Replied on SS. Must be a new key with blank chip.

Post by **scot850** » 30 Jul 2026, 08:46

I know they have to scan a code from the packaging to add a new key. Been a few years since I rebuilt 2 keys with new transponders. Had to buy a new one just to get the code to allow programming. I will ask my local dealer service manager (former master tech) who knows these cars well what the procedure should be. Could be with an older car they just don't know how to do it.

Neil.

Post by **jonesg** » 30 Jul 2026, 13:05

dispute the charge with your CC company.
It gets their attention fast.

Post by **scot850** » 30 Jul 2026, 13:20

As promised, here is a copy of the e-mail response I got. No names included so there is no possible issue with Volvo!:

P2 programming if I remember correct: Connect to VIDA via DiCE, perform readout and download the ignition key add programming software. After downloading the software, you follow the prompts on the screen and at a certain step in the sequence it tells you to insert the key to be programmed before selecting "start".

There are all kinds of issues that may arise, VIDA and new DiCE units do not work that well with VIDA to vehicle interface. We have encountered this issue as we are a newer store and have been told older DiCE units work better for some Volvo's. What you would notice is the communication dropping off intermittently which could interrupt the programming process.

Also, if chip in key has been damaged, the new key won't program, or key has been attempted to be programmed before. Especially the case, with some parking lot services offered at the local Costco (or the such).

We have had experience with customer supplying aftermarket key, which was unsuccessful in programming.

This is for ignition key, physical key programming.

The sticker with code, on the box is for remote programming.

Hopefully that will help!

I have offered the lone of my cloned Dice unit to the dealer based on what he is saying with the newer unit not always good with the older models.

Neil.

Post by **vtl** » 30 Jul 2026, 13:51

I busted ~$1k on trying to fix wife's bricked '16 XC60, thanks to that cr@p called VIDA Online. I have an old DiCE unit, a night shift production, fully soldered PCB, etc. Wasn't able to roll every transaction back, and VIDA tech support was of no help. So lost money and had to replace a module that was ruined by Volvo. Stay away from VIDA Online and newer Volvo in general.

darylrobert · Post by **darylrobert** » 30 Jul 2026, 18:13

so not all volvo dealerships are equal. this is not a new dealership but i did notice non of the "tech's" wearing volvo uniform. looked to me volvo are outsourcing their service department?

darylrobert · Post by **darylrobert** » 30 Jul 2026, 18:17

RED FLAG if your VOLVO service department waiting room looks like this?

: Volvo service department

Post by **matthew1** » 30 Jul 2026, 18:35

Ooooof. At least Volvo brought wagons back?

darylrobert · Post by **darylrobert** » 31 Jul 2026, 01:21

Does this video look legit? this device cloning old P2 volvo keys, ive rung so many people in Australia who either say yes no or maybe it can be cloned.

: volvo key transponder clone