Volvo Car App Not Working? 5 Reasons & Fix It Yourself Now!

The Volvo Cars app promises seamless control – remote start, vehicle status at your fingertips. But what happens when that promise falls flat, and you’re left staring at a non-responsive app? If you’re wondering ‘why is my volvo car app not working,’ you’ve come to the right place

Ever tried to start your Volvo remotely or check your car’s status, only to find the Volvo app won’t connect? You’re not alone.

Many Volvo owners wake up to the frustrating question—why is my Volvo car app not working? Whether it refuses to start your car, won’t sync with your phone, or suddenly stops working on your XC90, it can leave you feeling stuck.

As an automotive engineer and a die-hard Volvo fan, I’ve seen (and fixed) my fair share of Volvo app not connecting to car issues. Sometimes, it’s a simple Bluetooth glitch. Other times, it’s an outdated app, a phone compatibility issue, or even Volvo’s servers taking an unexpected break.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through why your Volvo app isn’t working today, how to connect the Volvo app to your car, and the exact steps to get things running smoothly again. Let’s dive in—because your Volvo should be as reliable as the brand promises.

Common Reasons Why the Volvo Car App Is Not Working

If your Volvo app won’t connect or refuses to start your car, don’t panic. The issue is often something simple—like a bad internet connection or a Bluetooth hiccup. Let’s go through the most common reasons why your Volvo app is not connecting to your car and what might be causing the problem.

1. Connectivity Issues

First things first—check your internet connection. The Volvo Cars app relies on a stable network to communicate with your car. If your phone has weak mobile data or Wi-Fi, the app won’t function properly.

• Try switching between Wi-Fi and mobile data to see if the connection improves.
• If you’re in an area with poor reception, move to a location with a stronger signal.
• Volvo’s servers might be temporarily down. If multiple users are experiencing issues, it could be a system-wide problem.

2. Bluetooth or Pairing Problems

Having trouble pairing your phone? Bluetooth connectivity is another common culprit. If your Volvo app won’t connect, it could be due to an incorrect pairing process or interference from previous connections.

• Did you pair your phone correctly? The Volvo app requires a proper setup before it can connect.
• Old connections causing trouble? Try removing and re-pairing your device.
• Seeing the error “This Volvo has already been paired with your Volvo Cars app”? That means another phone is already linked. You’ll need to unpair the previous device before adding a new one.

3. App-Specific Problems

Sometimes, the problem isn’t your car or phone—it’s the Volvo Cars app itself. If your Volvo app won’t start the car, or it keeps crashing, an outdated version or a recent bug might be the issue.

• Check for app updates. Running an old version can cause unexpected glitches.
• Restart the app. Sometimes, a simple force-close and relaunch fixes the issue.
• Reinstall the app. If the app is buggy after an update, uninstalling and reinstalling can help.

4. Compatibility Issues

Not all phones play nicely with the Volvo Cars app. If you’re using an older phone or a device running an outdated operating system, that could be why the Volvo app is not working on your iPhone or Android.

• The app works best with newer iOS and Android versions. If your phone is outdated, consider updating the OS.
• Some older Volvo models (pre-2021) may have limited app support. If you’re driving an older Volvo, check if the app is compatible.
• Recent firmware updates on your Volvo can also affect connectivity. Always ensure your car’s software is up to date.

5. Volvo System Updates or Server Downtime

Lastly, the issue might be completely out of your hands. Sometimes, Volvo’s servers go down for maintenance, making the app temporarily unusable.

• If your Volvo app isn’t working today, check Volvo’s official website or forums for any announcements about downtime.
• If the app won’t work on multiple devices, it’s likely a server-side issue.
• You can also try using the app at a later time—most outages are resolved quickly.

How to Fix the Volvo Cars App Not Working Issue

So, your Volvo app won’t connect, or it refuses to start your car? Frustrating, right? But don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. Below are the best fixes to get your Volvo Cars app working again. Follow these steps, and you’ll be back in control in no time.

Check Internet & Bluetooth Connection

Before you dive into more complex troubleshooting, let’s start with the basics. The Volvo Cars app relies on both internet and Bluetooth to function properly.

• Check your internet: If you’re using Wi-Fi, try switching to mobile data (or vice versa) to see if the issue resolves.
• Test your phone’s connection: Open a web browser or another app to confirm your phone has an active internet connection.
• Restart Bluetooth: Toggle Bluetooth off, wait a few seconds, and turn it back on.
• Restart your devices: Power cycle your smartphone and your Volvo’s infotainment system—sometimes, that’s all it takes.

Restart and Reinstall the Volvo Cars App

If your Volvo app won’t start the car or is acting glitchy, restarting or reinstalling can help clear bugs.

• Force-close the app: Swipe up from the bottom (on iPhone) or go to your recent apps (on Android) and close the app completely.
• Restart your phone: A simple restart can refresh your phone’s memory and clear temporary glitches.
• Uninstall and reinstall: If the app still won’t connect, delete it and reinstall it from the App Store (iPhone) or Play Store (Android).
• Check app permissions: Ensure the Volvo app has the necessary permissions enabled (like Bluetooth, Location, and Notifications).

Re-Pair the Volvo Car App with Your Vehicle

If you’re seeing the error message “This Volvo has already been paired with your Volvo Cars app”, you’ll need to reset the connection and re-pair the app properly.

How to Pair the Volvo Cars App with Your Vehicle:

1. Remove the existing connection: In your Volvo’s infotainment system, go to Settings > Connectivity > Bluetooth Devices, then delete the old connection.
2. Forget the car on your phone: On your phone, go to Settings > Bluetooth, find your Volvo, and tap Forget This Device.
3. Restart both devices: Power off your car’s infotainment system and restart your phone.
4. Reinstall the app: If issues persist, uninstall and reinstall the Volvo Cars app.
5. Pair again: Open the Volvo app, follow the pairing instructions, and confirm the connection in your car’s settings.

If the app still won’t connect, check if another phone is already paired with your Volvo. You may need to unpair it first.

Update Software & Firmware

Outdated software is a common reason why the Volvo app won’t connect. Keeping your phone and car updated ensures smooth operation.

• Update your phone’s OS: Go to Settings > Software Update on your iPhone or Android device.
• Update the Volvo Cars app: Open the App Store or Play Store and check for updates.
• Update your Volvo’s software:
  1. In your car’s infotainment system, go to Settings > System > Software Updates.
  2. If an update is available, follow the on-screen instructions to install it.

Pro tip: Always update your software when connected to Wi-Fi to avoid using mobile data.

Verify Volvo Server Status

Sometimes, the problem isn’t on your end—Volvo’s servers might be down. If the app suddenly stops working, check if there’s a widespread issue.

• Check Volvo’s official website: Look for any maintenance announcements.
• Try on another device: If the app isn’t working on multiple phones, it’s likely a server issue.
• Wait and retry: If Volvo’s servers are down, the only fix is to wait until they’re back up.

Contact Volvo Support

If you’ve tried everything and the app still won’t connect, it’s time to reach out to Volvo’s support team.

• When to contact support? If your app isn’t working for more than 24 hours and none of the troubleshooting steps have helped.
• Best ways to reach Volvo Assistance:
  • Via the Volvo Cars app: Go to Help & Support in the app.
  • Call Volvo Customer Service: Check the official Volvo website for your region’s contact number.
  • Visit a Volvo dealership: If all else fails, a technician can check your car’s connectivity system.

Having your car’s VIN and app version handy will make troubleshooting with support much faster!

These fixes should help you get the Volvo Cars app back up and running. If the app still refuses to connect, don’t stress—sometimes, a simple software update or re-pairing process is all it takes. Let me know in the comments if you found a different fix that worked for you!

Preventive Measures to Avoid Future Volvo Cars App Issues

Let’s be real—dealing with app issues is a headache. But the good news? A little prevention can save you from frustration down the road. Here’s how to keep your Volvo Cars app running smoothly:

• Keep the app and phone updated – Regular updates fix bugs and improve performance. Always install the latest version of the Volvo Cars app and keep your phone’s OS up to date.
• Update your Volvo’s software – Your car’s infotainment system also gets updates. Check for software updates regularly to ensure seamless connectivity.
• Avoid pairing multiple phones – If several devices are paired with your Volvo, conflicts can arise. Stick to one primary phone for the best experience.
• Ensure a stable internet connection – A weak mobile network or Wi-Fi can cause issues. Before using the app, ensure you have a strong and stable connection.

How to Connect the Volvo App to Your Car

So, you just downloaded the Volvo Cars app, and now you’re wondering—how do I connect it to my car? Don’t worry, I’ve been there too.

Pairing the app with your Volvo should be a quick process, but if you miss a step, it can be frustrating. Here’s how to do it the right way:

1. Ensure You Have an Active Volvo ID – If you don’t have one yet, create a Volvo ID and log into the app.
2. Turn on Your Car – Your Volvo needs to be running or at least in “ignition mode” to allow pairing.
3. Enable Bluetooth & Internet – Your phone should have a stable internet connection and Bluetooth enabled.
4. Open the Volvo Cars App – Navigate to the pairing section and select ‘Add Car.’
5. Follow the On-Screen Instructions – Your car’s infotainment system will guide you through the process.
6. Verify & Confirm – A confirmation code may appear on both your phone and car screen. Accept it to finalize the connection.

If you’re seeing the dreaded message, “This Volvo has already been paired with your Volvo Cars app,” you may need to unpair any previously connected devices before trying again. Go to your car’s settings, remove old connections, and repeat the pairing steps.

Why Is My Volvo Car App Not Working in 2021?

Back in 2021, many Volvo owners had issues with the app due to major updates and system changes.

If you’re still using an older version of the app or your car’s software hasn’t been updated since then, this could be the culprit. Here’s what to check:

• Outdated App Version – Go to the App Store or Play Store and ensure you have the latest version installed.
• Phone Compatibility Issues – Older phones running outdated iOS or Android versions may struggle with the app.
• Server Downtime – Volvo’s system had multiple maintenance periods in 2021, causing temporary outages. Check if the issue is on Volvo’s end.
• Software Updates for Your Volvo – If your car’s software is still running an old version from 2021, it might not support newer app functions. Head to your infotainment system settings and look for available updates.

If your Volvo app isn’t working, don’t stress—it’s usually an easy fix. Start with these steps, and you should be back on track in no time!

Why Is My Volvo Car App Not Working in 2022?

Fast forward to 2022, and while Volvo improved the app, some users still faced connectivity issues. If you’re experiencing problems, here are some possible reasons:

• App Bug from a Recent Update – Sometimes, new updates introduce glitches. If your Volvo app won’t connect, try reinstalling it.
• Network Problems – A weak Wi-Fi or mobile data connection can prevent the app from syncing with your car.
• Bluetooth Conflicts – If you paired your phone with multiple devices, your Volvo might struggle to maintain a stable connection.
• Volvo Server Issues – Check Volvo’s official website or forums to see if their servers are down.

Why Is My Volvo Car App Not Working on XC90?

Own a Volvo XC90 and struggling with the app? You’re not alone.

Many XC90 owners report connectivity issues, especially with remote start and vehicle status updates. Common problems include:

• Remote Start Failing – This could be due to location settings, a poor network signal, or app permissions.
• Bluetooth Not Pairing Properly – Try unpairing and re-pairing your phone with the XC90.
• Software Compatibility Issues – Some XC90 models (especially older ones) may require a firmware update for full app functionality.
• Multiple Paired Devices – If another phone is already connected to your Volvo, it might interfere with the app’s performance. Unpair any unused devices.

To fix this, make sure your app, phone, and car are all updated to the latest versions. If problems persist, Volvo customer support can help troubleshoot further.

FAQs On Volvo Car App Not Working

Still have questions? You’re not alone. Here are some common concerns Volvo owners have about the app:

Q: Why is my Volvo car app not connecting?

A: It could be a weak internet connection, Bluetooth issues, or an outdated app. Try restarting your phone, checking your connection, and updating the app.

Q: Why won’t my phone connect to my Volvo?

A: Your phone might not be properly paired, or an old connection could be interfering. Unpair and re-pair the device following Volvo’s official pairing steps.

Q: How do I activate the Volvo Cars app?

A: Download the app, log in with your Volvo ID, and follow the pairing instructions to connect it to your car.

Q: Why won’t my Volvo start from the app?

A: Ensure your car is in an area with good network coverage and that remote start is enabled. Also, check if the app has the necessary permissions on your phone.

Q5: What should I do if the Volvo app keeps crashing? A: Restart the app, update it to the latest version, or reinstall it if the problem persists.

Q: How do I reset the Volvo Cars app?

A: Uninstall the app, restart your phone, and then reinstall it. This often resolves most issues.

Final Thoughts

Let’s face it—technology isn’t always perfect. But when your Volvo Cars app won’t connect or refuses to start your car, it’s usually something simple that can be fixed quickly.

To keep things running smoothly, always update your app, phone, and car’s software. If issues persist, Volvo’s customer support is there to help.

Got a tip or trick that worked for you? Drop it in the comments—I’d love to hear how you got your Volvo app back on track!