VDASH Guide

How to Obtain the CEM & ECM PIN for Your Volvo

To modify the configuration of your vehicle, you will need the CEM (Central Electronic Module) PIN for your Volvo. For example, if you want to add features such as heated seats, activate navigation, remove STOP/START, enable video playback while driving, or enable cruise control, you will need the CEM PIN.

Each Volvo has a unique PIN, known only by Volvo Cars, and they will not disclose this PIN to anyone.

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Before You Start

There are several ways to obtain this PIN. The available options vary significantly depending on the Volvo platform.

You can identify your Volvo platform by:

After obtaining the CEM PIN, you can unlock the option to change the vehicle configuration, but not to tune the car.

For tuning, a different type of PIN called the ECM (Engine Control Module) PIN is needed on some platforms.

For a detailed explanation of Volvo PIN codes, read our article.

Please note: We do not supply PIN code readout files when decoding is done via VDASH or VDD. Instead, the PIN codes are automatically uploaded directly to the VDASH system for your use.
P1 | Models: V50, S40II, C30, C70II

Decoding CEM PIN

Option 1: Decode with VDASH

VDASH is capable of decoding the CEM PIN of some P1 vehicles, usually 2011+.

The entire decoding process can take up to 24 hours, but usually takes around 8 hours. You can interrupt the process at any time and resume it later, starting at the last decoded position.

Make sure that throughout the process, your vehicle is:

  • Connected to the computer via DiCE and USB, not Bluetooth
  • Connected to a power source with a minimum power of 12A
  • With the ignition on. The car will be in programming mode; all lights and devices will be off during the process.

Option 2: Decode with VDD

VDD is capable of decoding the CEM PIN of some P1 vehicles.

The success of CEM PIN decoding depends on the numbers contained within the PIN code itself. The decoding process takes approximately 30 minutes.

Requirements:

  • Key removed from the ignition
  • Disconnected battery charger, because some chargers interfere with the CAN bus
Please note: There is no guarantee of successful CEM PIN decoding.

Other CEM PIN Options

Decoding ECM PIN

For most P1 vehicles, an ECM PIN is not needed for engine optimization. For newer models, typically after 2011, it may be necessary.

In this case, contact one of our dealers who offer this service.

To find out which performance options are available for your Volvo, enter your vehicle's VIN code in our search bar.

P2 | Models: V70II, S60, S80, XC70II, XC90

Decoding CEM PIN

Option 1: Decode with VDASH

VDASH is capable of decoding the CEM PIN of some P2 vehicles, including 3.2 6V, 4.4 V8, and 147kW D5.

The entire decoding process can take up to 24 hours, but usually takes around 8 hours. You can interrupt the process at any time and resume it later, starting at the last decoded position.

Make sure that throughout the process, your vehicle is:

  • Connected to the computer via DiCE and USB, not Bluetooth
  • Connected to a power source with a minimum power of 12A
  • With the ignition on. The car will be in programming mode; all lights and devices will be off during the process.

Option 2: Decode with VDD

VDD is capable of decoding the CEM PIN of some P2 vehicles.

  • Vehicles produced between 2005-2014
  • Except 3.2 6V, 4.4 V8, and 147kW D5

The success of CEM PIN decoding depends on the numbers contained within the PIN code itself. The decoding process takes approximately 30 minutes.

Requirements:

  • Key removed from the ignition
  • Disconnected battery charger, because some chargers interfere with the CAN bus
Please note: There is no guarantee of successful CEM PIN decoding.

Other CEM PIN Options

Decoding ECM PIN

No ECM PIN is needed for performance optimization; you can upload the optimizations directly into your car.

To find out which performance options are available for your Volvo, enter your vehicle's VIN code in our search bar.

P3 | Models: V40II, V60, V70III, S60II, S80II, XC60, XC70III

Decoding CEM PIN

Option 1: Decode with VDASH

VDASH is capable of decoding the CEM PIN of all P3 vehicles.

The entire decoding process can take up to 24 hours, but usually takes around 8 hours. You can interrupt the process at any time and resume it later, starting at the last decoded position.

Make sure that throughout the process, your vehicle is:

  • Connected to the computer via DiCE and USB, not Bluetooth
  • Connected to a power source with a minimum power of 12A
  • With the ignition on. The car will be in programming mode; all lights and devices will be off during the process.

Other CEM PIN Options

Decoding ECM PIN

Diesel and Petrol 5-Cylinder Engines

Petrol 6-Cylinder and 8-Cylinder Engines

  • Can be decoded via VDASH

Diesel and Petrol 4-Cylinder VEA Engines

To find out which performance options are available for your Volvo, enter your vehicle's VIN code in our search bar.

SPA / CMA | Models: V60II, V90II, S60III, S90II, XC60II, XC90II, C40, XC40
Important: Decoding with a VOE adapter is extremely slow. It is always recommended to use a DiCE or Generic J2534, such as SUPER J2534 from our e-shop, when decoding PINs.

Decoding CEM PIN

Option 1: Decode with VDASH

VDASH is capable of decoding the CEM PIN of some SPA / CMA vehicles.

The entire decoding process can take up to 24 hours. You can interrupt the process at any time and resume it later, starting at the last decoded position.

Make sure that throughout the process, your vehicle is:

  • Connected to the computer via DiCE and USB, not Bluetooth
  • Connected to a power source with a minimum power of 12A
  • With the ignition on. The car will be in programming mode; all lights and devices will be off during the process.

Other CEM PIN Options and Limitations

  • The CEM PIN can be obtained by accessing official Volvo VIDA software. The PIN can be captured when uploading any software to the vehicle. This process is in violation of the Volvo VIDA licensing terms.
  • Find your nearest PRO / PRO Verified dealer
  • Cannot decode vehicles with iCUP or Android system.
    HW number: 31433380, 31473157, 32217456, 32356710, 32356710, 32217456, 31473157

Decoding ECM PIN: VEA Gen 1, up to 2018

Can be decoded via UCBP and VDASH.

First, verify that your vehicle's HW number is supported for optimization:

Supported HW numbers:
  • 31312484
  • 31361735
  • 31459244
  • 31459298
  • 31312486
  • 31452623
  • 31452230
  • 31459914
  • 31452233
  • 31459913

To find out which performance options are available for your Volvo, enter your vehicle's VIN code in our search bar.

Final Takeaway

Choose the PIN method based on your Volvo platform

CEM PIN and ECM PIN requirements differ by platform, model year, engine type, and module hardware. Start by identifying your Volvo platform using the VIN search, then follow the relevant section above for the safest available decoding method.

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