Software Updates

What are the benefits of performing software updates and what does this mean in practice?
As you probably know, there are many small computers in today’s cars. And like most computers, the software might need an update from time to time. Technical advancements move quickly nowadays, so it's difficult to specify exactly what an update in a particular car entails. It may involve things like optimizing the engine management system for increased efficiency, optimizing the climate control for airflow and temperature management or improving automatic transmission gear shifting quality. Volvo is continually developing new software, and providing updates is a way for us to ensure that your car is operating at its best.

So, anytime a car needs software, it's free?
No. If the software required is for a repair or new accessory installation, there will be a charge to the customer.

Is my 1999 S80 covered under the Complimentary Software Update?
No. Only select MY2000 and newer models are covered.

Will I notice any differences in the driving characteristics of my car?
As explained above, it's difficult to specify exactly what an update will mean in your particular car. However, if your vehicle was in good repair to begin with, there may not be anything you notice in normal day-to-day driving.

I’ve done some aftermarket software-tuning to my car. What happens when you download the Volvo Complimentary Software Update?
The aftermarket tuning you’ve done may be overwritten; in which case, the engine will operate within Volvo specifications. In some cases, the ECM (Engine Control Module) may become disabled and require replacement to get the engine started. For this reason, Volvo does NOT recommend upgrading cars with aftermarket tuning software.

My car had a control unit replaced by an independent repair shop and they used a component from a salvaged vehicle. Will this affect the software download?
Yes, if the control unit used was an incorrect part number for the specific build date of your vehicle. In these cases, either a software package may not be delivered or, in some rare cases, the control unit may become disabled and require replacement with the correct part number.

Which customer settings might be affected after the Software Upgrade?
The clock and radio presets, mirror and power seat memory (in vehicles so equipped), and any setting in the infotainment system menu that has been altered by the customer from the factory default value. Information on the settings can be found in your Owner's Manual. Alternatively, your Volvo retailer can offer guidance in resetting these parameters.

My car’s fuel gauge reads “empty” and I know it has fuel. Why?
This is normal when the Driver's Information Module (on some newer models) has received updated software. The fuel gauge will readjust itself to the right level after a few minutes of driving.

My seat belt reminder behaves differently than before the Software Update was performed. Why?
The seat belt reminder logic resides in the Driver's Information Module, which has been updated. The new logic meets the latest Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.

Is it possible to downgrade to an earlier software version after a completed download?
No. A software downgrade is not possible.

Should I expect any problems with my vehicle if I do not have the update performed?
No. These updates are not intended to prevent any specific failure.

Complimentary Diagnostics

If my car has a rattle in the door for example, does that fall under Complimentary Diagnostics?
No. Only owners experiencing a Check Engine Light or other Warning Indicator will receive complimentary computer diagnostics and an estimate for any necessary repair without obligation. A rattle does not fall into this category and would involve a charge.

My Check Engine Light came on but went out on its own. Can I still get a free diagnosis from the retailer if the warning light is not actively on to see what codes may have been saved?
Yes.

Parts Warranty

Do I receive a Two-Year Warranty on parts that are replaced due to an accident?
Yes, if the repair is performed at a Volvo retailer or Volvo Certified Body & Paint Service Center. Parts sold to, and installed by non-Volvo certified body shops, receive a one-year warranty on the parts only.

My car was repaired at a Volvo Certified Body & Paint Service Center, and subsequently, a part failed within the warranty period. Is the labour covered for the replacement?
Yes.

My car was repaired at a non-Volvo certified body shop, and subsequently, a part failed within the warranty period. Is the labour covered for the replacement?
Not by Volvo.

If I have a part replaced under my New Car Warranty that has six months left, is the replacement part covered for the remaining six months or two years?
The part is covered for the remainder of the New Car Warranty (in this example, for six months) since you (the customer) didn't pay for the part.

I had a part replaced by a Volvo retailer 13 months ago. Is that part still under warranty?
Parts replaced beginning Jan. 1, 2011 will receive the Two-Year Parts Warranty. Parts replaced prior to Jan. 1, 2011 will receive the One-Year Parts Warranty.

Do parts sold over the counter qualify for the Two-Year Parts Warranty coverage?
No, they come with a One-Year Parts Warranty.

Volvo On Call Roadside Assistance

I just serviced my Volvo at a retailer and then sold it to my neighbour. Will the new owner be eligible to receive the discounted On Call since the car was serviced at a retailer in the past 12 months?
No. Only owners who currently service at a Volvo retailer are eligible for the discounted On Call offer. When the new owner brings the car in for service at a Volvo retailer, they will be able to get a form for the special discounted offer.

What is the definition of a loyal customer?
A customer who has had their Volvo serviced at an authorized Volvo retailer at least once within the last 12 months.

When purchasing the discounted Volvo On Call Roadside Assistance, do I need to provide proof of service from a Volvo retailer?
Yes. You must attach a copy of a recent Volvo Repair Order (invoice) dated within the last 12 months.

Can I pay the yearly subscription for On Call with a credit card, by phone?
You may use a credit card, but not by phone. The discounted On Call coverage can only be obtained by mailing the form obtained from your Volvo retailer to the address shown on the form, along with either a cheque or money order for the stated amount (plus applicable taxes in the province or territory of the owner), or credit card information, and a copy of a recent Volvo Repair Order (see above),.

Can I renew the Volvo On Call Advantage at the discounted price?
Only if you are a loyal Volvo service customer and have had your vehicle repaired or maintained at an authorized Volvo retailer within the last 12 months. (Please note that you must get a form from your Volvo retailer.)