2010 S40 Key Not Detected

dfxc90 · Post by **dfxc90** » 25 Mar 2017, 07:26

Looking at buying a 99k miles 2010 S40 for college bound offspring. Only thing is, when key is inserted display shows "key not detected" and will not crank. Dash lights up, but ignition doesn't turn over. Car is in great condition otherwise, but I'm very nervous not being able to prove the engine starts and runs. Read horror stories all over about timing belts breaking and taking pistons down with them.

Post by **MadeInJapan** » 25 Mar 2017, 07:43

Sometimes it's a low battery that causes this. Make sure the battery and connecting cables are good to do...without cranking a good battery should read at least 12.6 or 12.7V. Under load and car running, up in the mid 13's. That said, if all is good and you still get that, I'm afraid it's off to the dealer to "remarry" the key fob with the car. I'm sorry but I have not heard or read of another solution besides the dealer for this issue.

dfxc90 · Post by **dfxc90** » 25 Mar 2017, 08:05

Could the car be started in this condition? I'd like to drive it to the dealership if needed, rather than pay for towing. How do I circumvent and go straight to the starter and jump or short around it safely?

Post by **MadeInJapan** » 28 Mar 2017, 19:32

Sorry there's no way...these cars have theft protection and there is no way I know of to by-pass the system. If you want to get the car to the dealer you'll probably have to tow it, or if you can make friends with a Volvo mechanic that's willing to make a house-call, you might could work something out like that.

mf70 · Post by **mf70** » 10 Apr 2017, 15:08

I assume that the second fob has already been lost. If not, do both fobs get the same report? It could be a fault in the ignition switch rather than the fob.

If the seller is willing to drop $1500 from the price, I'd go ahead and gamble. Either that, or wait for the seller to get the car in operation.

The fob has a RFID chip in the shank that is read by the ignition switch and verified to the CEM before the car is allowed to start. That is the ONLY way this car will start. (You can mechanically unlock the wheels so it can be towed at least from a small port near the shift knob.)