Volvo Car Key Replacement: Expert Guide, Quick & Easy Fix!

There’s nothing more frustrating than dealing with a faulty or lost car key, especially when you drive a Volvo.

Whether your key fob suddenly stops working or you’ve misplaced it, knowing how to handle a Volvo car key replacement can save you time and stress.

As a Volvo owner myself, I know how important it is to keep your key functional to ensure seamless access and security.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything from replacing your Volvo key battery to finding the best replacement options. Let’s dive in and get your Volvo key back in top shape!

When Do You Need a Volvo Car Key Replacement?

Losing or damaging your Volvo key can be a hassle. But how do you know when you need a replacement? Here are common situations where a new key is necessary:

• Lost or Stolen Key – If you lose your key or it gets stolen, you’ll need a replacement for security reasons. Modern Volvo keys are programmed to your car, so a lost key could be a risk.
• Broken or Damaged Key Fob – If your key fob is cracked, buttons are unresponsive, or the case is falling apart, it’s time for a new one.
• Key Fob Not Working After Battery Replacement – If changing the battery doesn’t fix the issue, the fob itself might be faulty.
• Electronic Key Malfunctions – Sometimes, internal electronic components stop working. If your car doesn’t recognize the key, you may need a new one.

How to Replace a Volvo Car Key Battery

A weak battery can cause key fob issues. Here’s how to replace the battery in different Volvo models:

Replacing the battery in your Volvo key fob is a simple process that can save you time and money. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Check Your Volvo Key Fob Model – Different Volvo models use similar key fobs, but the battery replacement method may vary slightly.
2. Gather Your Tools – You’ll need a CR2032 coin battery, a small flathead screwdriver, and a clean surface to work on.
3. Open the Key Fob – Slide the cover off or use the screwdriver to gently pry open the key fob.
4. Replace the Battery – Remove the old CR2032 battery and insert the new one with the positive side facing up.
5. Reassemble and Test – Close the key fob securely and test it to ensure it works properly.

Steps Of Volvo V60 Car Key Battery Replacement

If you see a “Volvo V60 car key battery low” warning, it’s time to change the battery. Follow these steps:

1. Slide the back cover off the key fob.
2. Remove the old battery.
3. Insert a new CR2032 battery with the positive side up.
4. Put the cover back and test the key.

This method works for 2012, 2013, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2020 Volvo V60 key fobs.

Volvo S60, V70, XC60, XC90, and XC40 Key Battery Replacement

The process is similar across models:

1. Open the key fob.
2. Remove the old battery.
3. Insert a fresh CR2032 battery.
4. Close the fob and check if it works.

Signs That Your Volvo Key Battery Is Low

A weak battery can cause several issues. Watch for these signs:

• Warning Message – You may see “Volvo V60 car remote key battery low” on your dashboard.
• Delayed Response – Pressing buttons takes longer than usual.
• Keyless Entry Failure – The doors don’t unlock when you approach the car.
• Reduced Range – You need to be closer to the car for the key to work.

If you notice these issues, replace your Volvo car key battery as soon as possible.

How to Manually Unlock Your Volvo

If your key fob battery is dead, you can still unlock your car manually. Follow these steps:

1. Locate the hidden key blade inside your Volvo key fob. To access it, slide the side button and pull the metal key out.
2. Find the keyhole on the driver’s door handle. Some Volvo models have a keyhole covered by a plastic cap—gently remove it.
3. Insert the key and turn it to unlock the door manually.

This method works for most Volvo models, including the V60, S60, XC60, XC90, and XC40.

How to Start a Volvo V60 with a Dead Key Fob

Even if your key fob battery is dead, you can still start your Volvo. Here’s how:

1. Get inside your car using the manual unlock method.
2. Locate the backup key slot or reader—usually found in the center console or under the cupholder.
3. Place the key fob directly on the reader.
4. Press the brake pedal and push the start button.

Your Volvo should start, even with a dead key fob battery.

Emergency Backup Options

If your key fob fails completely, you may need a replacement. Until then, consider:

• Carrying a spare key fob battery (CR2032) in your car.
• Using Volvo’s connected services app to unlock or start your car remotely.
• Contacting a Volvo dealership or roadside assistance for help.

Where to Get a Volvo Car Key Replacement?

If your key fob is lost, damaged, or completely unresponsive, you’ll need a replacement. Here are the best options:

Official Volvo Dealerships

• Pros: Genuine Volvo keys, full programming, and warranty coverage.
• Cons: Higher cost, requires proof of ownership, and may take a few days.

Authorized Locksmiths

• Pros: Faster service, often more affordable than dealerships.
• Cons: Not all locksmiths can program Volvo keys, so verify before visiting.

Online Key Replacement Options

• Pros: Budget-friendly, convenient ordering.
• Cons: You’ll need to program it, which may require dealer assistance.

Cost of Volvo Car Key Replacement

Replacing a Volvo key isn’t cheap, but prices vary based on several factors.

Price Comparison: Dealership vs. Third-Party Providers

• Volvo Dealership: $250–$500 (includes key, programming, and warranty).
• Authorized Locksmith: $150–$300 (key and programming, but no warranty).
• Online Purchase: $50–$150 (key only, requires separate programming).

Factors Affecting Replacement Costs

• Model and year of your Volvo.
• Whether you need just a key fob or full programming.
• Labor charges from dealerships or locksmiths.

Insurance and Warranty Considerations

• Some insurance policies cover lost keys—check your policy.
• If your car is under warranty, Volvo may offer key replacement at a reduced cost.

How to Prevent Key Fob Issues?

A little care goes a long way in avoiding key fob problems. Here’s how to keep your Volvo key working reliably.

Best Practices to Extend Battery Life

• Replace your key fob battery every 1–2 years.
• Avoid exposing the key to extreme temperatures.
• Use the key regularly to prevent internal circuit degradation.

Proper Storage and Handling

• Keep your key fob in a safe, dry place.
• Avoid dropping or exposing it to water.
• Store spare keys away from electronic interference.

Regular Battery Checks

• If you see a “Volvo V60 car key battery low” warning, replace the battery immediately.
• Test your key fob’s range occasionally—shorter range means a weak battery.

By following these tips, you can avoid key-related headaches and ensure smooth access to your Volvo!

Volvo V60 Car Remote Key Battery Low

If you see a “Volvo V60 car remote key battery low” warning on your dashboard, it means it’s time for a battery replacement. Common signs of a weak battery include:

• Delayed response when pressing buttons.
• Reduced range for unlocking your car.
• The need to press buttons multiple times.

Replacing the battery promptly prevents complete failure and ensures seamless key fob functionality.

Volvo S60 Car Key Battery Replacement

For Volvo S60 models, follow these steps:

1. Locate the small latch on the back of the key fob.
2. Slide or pry open the cover.
3. Replace the CR2032 battery with the positive side facing up.
4. Close the cover and test the key fob.

This process works for most S60 models, including older and newer versions.

Volvo V70 Car Key Battery Replacement

If your Volvo V70 key fob is unresponsive, try replacing the battery:

1. Use a flathead screwdriver to open the key fob.
2. Remove the old CR2032 battery.
3. Insert a fresh battery with the positive side up.
4. Secure the cover and check if the key fob works properly.

Volvo XC60 Car Key Battery Replacement

For the Volvo XC60, the battery replacement process is straightforward:

1. Slide the back cover off the key fob.
2. Take out the old CR2032 battery.
3. Insert a new one, ensuring the positive side is up.
4. Close the cover and test the key functions.

Regular battery checks will keep your XC60 key fob functioning smoothly.

Volvo XC90 Car Key Battery Replacement

The Volvo XC90 key fob uses a CR2032 battery. To replace it:

1. Find the release latch on the back.
2. Remove the cover and take out the old battery.
3. Insert the new battery with the correct orientation.
4. Reattach the cover and test your key fob.

Volvo V60 Car Key Battery Replacement

For Volvo V60 models (2012-2020):

1. Slide the back cover off.
2. Remove the old CR2032 battery.
3. Insert a new battery with the positive side up.
4. Secure the cover and check functionality.

If your V60 still doesn’t respond, it may require reprogramming at a Volvo dealership.

Volvo XC40 Car Key Battery Replacement

To replace the battery in a Volvo XC40 key fob:

1. Slide the back panel off.
2. Remove the old CR2032 battery.
3. Insert a new battery with the positive side up.
4. Secure the panel and test the fob.

A fresh battery ensures reliable keyless entry and ignition functions.

Most Volvo key fobs use a CR2032 coin cell battery. The general steps for replacement include:

Volvo Car Key Battery Replacement

1. Open the key fob using the latch or a screwdriver.
2. Remove the old battery.
3. Insert a new CR2032 battery, ensuring the positive side is facing up.
4. Close the key fob and test it.

Replacing your Volvo key battery every 1-2 years helps prevent unexpected failures.

2018 Volvo V60 Car Key Battery Low

Seeing a “2018 Volvo V60 car key battery low” message? Change the battery using these steps:

1. Slide the back cover off.
2. Swap out the old CR2032 battery.
3. Insert the new one with the positive side facing up.
4. Close the fob and test the response.

2012 Volvo V60 Car Key Battery Low

A weak key battery can cause delayed response times. If your 2012 Volvo V60 shows a low battery warning:

1. Open the key fob.
2. Remove the old CR2032 battery.
3. Insert a new one.
4. Close the fob and test functionality.

2016 Volvo V60 Car Key Battery Low

For a 2016 Volvo V60, a low key battery warning means it’s time to replace it:

1. Slide the back cover off.
2. Replace the old CR2032 battery.
3. Reattach the cover and test the fob.

2013 Volvo V60 Car Key Battery Low

The 2013 Volvo V60 key fob battery replacement process:

1. Open the fob using the side latch.
2. Remove the old CR2032 battery.
3. Insert a fresh battery.
4. Close the cover and test it.

2017 Volvo V60 Car Key Battery Low

If your 2017 Volvo V60 key fob is not responding properly:

1. Open the key fob casing.
2. Remove the old CR2032 battery.
3. Install a new battery with the positive side facing up.
4. Close the case and test the functionality.

2020 Volvo V60 Key Fob Battery Replacement

For the 2020 Volvo V60:

1. Slide open the back panel.
2. Take out the old CR2032 battery.
3. Insert a new battery, positive side up.
4. Close the cover and test your key.

2019 Volvo V60 Key Fob Battery Replacement

For 2019 Volvo V60 owners experiencing key fob issues:

1. Remove the back cover of the key fob.
2. Swap out the old CR2032 battery.
3. Insert a new battery and close the cover.
4. Test the key fob to ensure it’s working properly.

Here’s a detailed table with the key fob battery replacement steps for different 2018–2020 Volvo V60 models:

Replacing your Volvo key fob battery is quick and easy. Whether you drive a V60, S60, XC60, XC90, or another Volvo model, keeping a fresh CR2032 battery on hand ensures you never get locked out unexpectedly. If your key fob still doesn’t work after replacing the battery, consider reprogramming it at a Volvo dealership or checking for deeper electronic issues.

FAQs On Volvo Car Key Replacement Guide

What kind of battery does a Volvo V60 key take?

If you need to replace your Volvo V60 key fob battery, you’ll need a CR2032 coin cell battery. This is the same type used in most modern Volvo key fobs, including the Volvo S60, XC60, XC90, and XC40.

What happens when a car key battery is low?

When your Volvo key fob battery is low, you’ll notice several warning signs:

• Dashboard Warning: Your Volvo might display a message like “Volvo V60 car key battery low” or “Volvo V60 car remote key battery low”.
• Slower Response: The buttons on your key fob may not work as quickly.
• Reduced Range: You have to be closer to the car for the key to unlock it.
• Intermittent Functionality: Sometimes the key works, sometimes it doesn’t.

Ignoring these signs can leave you locked out of your car at the worst possible moment, so replace the battery as soon as you notice the warning.

What happens when a Volvo key battery dies?

If your Volvo key battery dies completely, you won’t be able to use remote functions like unlocking the doors or starting the engine wirelessly. However, you can still access and start your car manually:

1. Unlocking the Car: Use the hidden key blade inside the fob to unlock the door manually.
2. Starting the Engine: Place the key fob against the backup reader in the center console (under the cup holder) and press the start button while holding the brake.

How do you start a Volvo V60 with a dead key fob?

Even if your key fob battery is dead, you can still start your Volvo V60. Here’s how:

1. Get inside the car using the manual key hidden inside your fob.
2. Find the backup key slot (usually in the center console or under the cup holder).
3. Place the key fob directly on the slot and press the brake pedal.
4. Press the start button, and your Volvo should start normally.

This method works for most modern Volvo models, including the S60, XC60, and XC90.

Final Words

Dealing with a lost, damaged, or dead Volvo key fob can be frustrating, but with the right knowledge, it doesn’t have to be a hassle. Whether you need to replace the battery, manually unlock your car, or get a new key fob, following the steps outlined in this guide will keep you prepared.

Key Takeaways:

• A weak battery can cause key fob malfunctions, so replace it as soon as you see a “Volvo V60 car key battery low” warning.
• If your key fob dies, you can still unlock and start your car manually using the backup key and key slot.
• When replacing a lost or broken key, Volvo dealerships, authorized locksmiths, and online retailers all offer solutions—each with pros and cons.
• Prevent issues by storing your key properly, keeping it away from extreme temperatures, and replacing the battery every 1–2 years.

As a Volvo enthusiast and automotive engineer, I know how crucial it is to keep your key fob working smoothly. A little maintenance goes a long way in preventing key-related headaches. I hope this guide has helped, and if you ever have any Volvo-related questions, feel free to explore more on The Volvo Life!