Setting up your VIDA online and programming keys for your 2004 Volvo XC90 might seem daunting, but it’s a process of teaching your car to recognize a new key, not the other way around. This involves communicating with various software modules within your vehicle. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know to successfully program your 2004 Volvo Xc90 Key Fob.
Firstly, understand that both the valet key and the switchblade remote for your Volvo XC90 are equipped with RFID chips. The mechanical “ignition key” part can be programmed to your car’s immobilizer system without needing a PIN code. However, this requires an official Volvo VIDA (Vehicle Information and Diagnostics for Aftersales) installation and a 3-day subscription. While officially available in the US, some users have reported success using VPNs and prepaid credit cards for overseas access, though this method carries risks. Alternatively, VDASH, a free software, might offer ignition key programming for a small fee, around $25.
For remote functionalities like keyless entry, you’ll need remotes that come with key blanks, PIN codes, and RFID chips. You can find pairs of these remotes online, for example, on Amazon, for approximately $100, effectively costing $50 per key fob. These blanks are typically made of a material that most locksmiths can easily cut, using your valet key as a template. Cutting costs can vary depending on the locksmith. A valuable tip: program multiple keys at once. VIDA’s programming applications allow you to add or remove as many keys as you want while the program is active, saving you time and potentially future costs if you decide to get spare keys later.
Accessing the full capabilities of VIDA, including remote key programming, requires a 3-day subscription, priced at around $66. Additionally, the software applications within VIDA for remote key and ignition key programming are separately priced at about $80 each. To use VIDA, you’ll also need a DICE (Diagnostic Communication Equipment) unit. While clone DICE units are available, they often need to be “renumbered” using VDASH to ensure compatibility with VIDA. If you’re fortunate enough to be near someone who owns a DICE (like in the WA area, as mentioned in some communities), they might be willing to assist you.
If the outlined process appears too complex or costly, a simpler, albeit less secure, workaround exists. You could remove the immobilizer RFID chip from your existing valet key. This requires careful handling but allows you to place the chip near the steering column, potentially bypassing the immobilizer system. However, consider the security implications before opting for this method.
