VDASH Guide

Volvo Keys & Remotes Explained

Volvo car keys have gradually evolved from classic physical ignition keys with separate remote controls to modern keyless systems. This guide explains how Volvo keys work, which PIN codes are required, and what VDASH can or cannot program on each platform.

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Volvo Key Evolution

Volvo car keys have gradually evolved with a focus on safety, comfort, and typical Scandinavian design. Older models used a classic system: a physical key with a blade inserted into the ignition, which also included a remote control for locking and unlocking.

This method was standard for a long time because it combined mechanical operation with the convenience of remote functions.

From Physical Keys to Keyless Systems

With the development of technology, Volvo transitioned to keyless systems, also known as Keyless Entry & Start. These allow the vehicle to be unlocked simply by touching the door handle and started with a button, without physically using the key. The vehicle automatically detects the presence of the remote.

This transition represents a shift from a mechanical solution to a more intuitive and convenient operation while maintaining a high level of security.

Differences are also visible between vehicle generations. For example, the first generation Volvo S60, P2 platform, had a separate ignition key and a separate remote control, while the third generation S60, SPA platform, uses keyless, often even buttonless remotes.

Immobilizer Chip Inside Every Key

Every Volvo key contains a transponder chip for the immobilizer, which verifies that the key is original. For example, older P2 / P1 models use the Megamos ID48 chip. The immobilizer compares the key’s code with the PIN stored in the CEM control unit. If the codes do not match, the vehicle will not start.

PIN IMMO Codes Used for Volvo Keys

For Volvo, these are the typical unique PIN IMMO codes:

CEM IMMO PIN

The CEM IMMO PIN is required to program new remote and ignition keys. This PIN is officially available only to Volvo, but VDASH can decode it from most CEM units, allowing a new key to be added even without authorized access.

KVM IMMO PIN

The KVM IMMO PIN is required to program new keyless systems. However, VDASH cannot decode the KVM IMMO PIN.

For more information about Volvo PINs, read our articles:

Important Warnings Before Programming Keys

Use the Correct Remote Frequency

For remote controls and keyless systems, it is always necessary to pair the correct frequency supported by the remote control system in the vehicle, for example the UEM unit on P2.

Typically, this is 434 MHz and P3 868 MHz for the EU market, and 315 MHz for the USA market. It is always necessary to use the correct frequency for your Volvo, otherwise the remote will not work.

Keys that have already been programmed to a specific Volvo cannot be used for another Volvo, unless it is on the SPA platform or remote keys on P2, even if they were removed using VDASH or “virginized” / erased.

With VDASH, you can both add and remove keys in your Volvo. Detailed explanations by platform can be found below.

P1 | Models: V50, S40II, C30, C70II

Vehicles Without KVM Module

  • CEM IMMO PIN can always be decoded using VDASH. You can add and remove keys without additional steps.

Vehicles With KVM Module

  • CEM IMMO PIN requires a CEM PIN, which can be decoded using VDASH or VDD for some P1 models, and can then be used in VDASH to add ignition and remote keys.
  • KVM modules cannot be programmed, even if you have the KVM IMMO PIN.

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

Key Programming with VDASH

  • CEM IMMO PIN can always be decoded using VDASH, except XC90 3.2 / 4.4 V8 / 147kW and 120kW D5 MY13+. You can add and remove keys without additional steps.

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

Key Programming Requirements

  • CEM IMMO PIN requires a CEM PIN, which can be decoded using VDASH or VDD for all P3 models, and can then be used in VDASH to add ignition and remote keys.
  • KVM IMMO PIN is necessary for keyless programming. However, VDASH cannot decode this PIN.
  • If you have obtained the KVM IMMO PIN, you can upload it to http://d5t5.com/pin/. The PIN will be automatically added to the VDASH system for keyless programming.

SPA / CMA | Models: V60II, V90II, S60III, S90II, XC60II, XC90II, C40, XC40

Keyless Programming Requirements

  • CEM IMMO PIN is necessary for keyless programming. However, VDASH cannot decode this PIN.
  • If you have obtained the CEM IMMO PIN, you can upload it to http://d5t5.com/pin/. The PIN will be automatically added to the VDASH system for keyless programming.

SPA Key Tag / Active Key / Sport Key

The SPA platform introduced a minimalist keyless access system called Key Tag, also known as Active Key or Sport Key. This compact key is designed without buttons and serves as a simple alternative, for example during sports activities.

The Key Tag is powered by a CR2032 battery. From the factory, the device is hermetically sealed and the manufacturer does not expect the battery to be replaced. If it is depleted, replacement of the entire device is recommended.

In practice, however, it is possible to open the Key Tag and replace the battery. This results in damage to the original casing, so a replacement cover must be created.

We will soon offer the replacement of the battery and casing through our e-shop.

Final Takeaway

Volvo key programming depends on platform, key type, and required IMMO PIN

VDASH can add and remove keys on many Volvo platforms, but the required PIN differs by generation. Some vehicles only need a CEM IMMO PIN, while keyless systems may require KVM IMMO PIN.
volvo keys fob key remote ignition keyless keyless entry & start ID48 cem immo pin kvm immo pin kvm module key tag sports key activity key 434 MHz 868 MHz 315 MHz CR2032 CR2430 CR2450