I recently purchased a 1998 Volvo V70, which unfortunately came with only a single key and no remote key fob. Initially, I thought I could manage without the remote. However, the absence of a key slot on the rear liftgate quickly changed my mind. I need a remote!
A fellow Volvo enthusiast pointed me towards some information on programming a Volvo V70 key fob. The instructions suggest that if your Volvo has a red security light on the dashboard, manual programming might be possible. The process involves a sequence of key turns in the ignition: “Insert key into ignition, turn key to position #2 and back to off at least 5 times in ten seconds. The LED indicator should start to flash, leave ignition on. Once indicator starts you have 15 seconds to program remote. Press the lock button on the remote. The indicator LED lighting for about 2 seconds acknowledges the programming.”
My local mechanic, however, expressed skepticism, believing this procedure was only applicable to older Volvo 850 models, not my 2000 V70 (he was slightly off on the year of my car, it’s a 1998).
To investigate, I checked my dashboard and confirmed the presence of a blinking red security light. Does this mean I can simply buy a compatible remote, like this Volvo Remote Key Transmitter (With Panic Button) – Genuine Volvo 9166200 | FCP Euro, and program it myself using the method described?
Volvo V70 key fob remote transmitter with panic button for remote locking and unlocking of doors.
Eager to test the self-programming theory, I attempted the “key dance” – turning the key as instructed to see if the LED would flash. Unfortunately, I didn’t observe any flashing LED. This leads me to suspect my mechanic might be correct, and the manual programming method may not work for my 1998 Volvo V70. It seems further investigation or a trip to a Volvo dealership might be necessary to get a working key fob for my car.
