As a Volvo S60 owner, your key fob is more than just a key; it’s your gateway to convenience and security. Whether you’re looking to replace a lost key, upgrade your existing one, or simply understand the different types available, this guide will provide you with everything you need to know about your Volvo S60 Key Fob.
This guide is based on hands-on experience and aims to clarify your options for key fob replacements and programming, whether you prefer to use Volvo’s VIDA software yourself or visit a dealership.
General Notes on Volvo Keys for SPA/CMA Platform (Including S60):
Volvo’s SPA (Scalable Product Architecture) and CMA (Compact Modular Architecture) platforms, which underpin the modern S60, utilize a key fob system that offers considerable flexibility. Here are some key points to understand:
- Used Keys are Programmable: You can program both new and used compatible Volvo key fobs to your S60. There’s no need for “virginizing” used keys. Simply place the key in the cupholder, and VIDA software will guide you through the pairing process.
- DIY Programming with VIDA: Programming, or “adding a key fob,” is a function available within the Volvo VIDA (Vehicle Information and Diagnostics for Aftersales) software under “keyless appl”. If you have access to VIDA, you can program keys yourself. Dealerships can also perform this service.
- Dealer Policies on Used Keys: While dealerships may have policies regarding customer-supplied or used keys, technically, they can program any compatible key fob using VIDA. It’s worth inquiring about their policies, but understand that the system itself allows for used key programming.
- Frequency Variations: Volvo key fobs come in different radio frequencies depending on the market. Common frequencies include 434MHz, 315MHz, and 434MHz “narrow band” (for specific markets like South Korea). This guide primarily focuses on the 434MHz keys common in North America, but the general principles apply to other frequencies as well.
- Key Variations, Not Part Numbers: Instead of focusing on specific Volvo part numbers (which are numerous and constantly evolving), we’ll discuss the functional variations in key fobs. This approach is more practical, especially when considering using recycled keys.
- Keyless Starting and Passive Entry: Volvo S60 models typically feature “keyless starting” and “keyless locking and unlocking (Passive Entry)” as standard, especially in North America. Regardless of these features, all models use the same key fobs and programming procedures.
- Emergency Key Blade: While not the primary focus here, the physical “emergency blade” within the key fob is important. A Volvo dealer or a locksmith registered with Volvo can cut a replacement blade for you (usually requiring proof of ownership). Alternatively, you can find blank blades online and have them copied from an existing blade.
If you’re considering adding or replacing your Volvo S60 key fob with a used one, understanding the different types available is crucial. Used keys are often readily available and reasonably priced, and with a new battery, they function just like new.
Let’s explore the key variations in detail.
Key Fob Variations – Motion Sensing (MS) Technology
Introduced in 2021, Volvo updated their key fobs with “Motion Sensing” (MS) technology. This enhancement was designed to combat “relay attack” theft, a vulnerability in many proximity key fob systems.
Motion Sensing Keys: These keys incorporate a motion sensor. If the key remains stationary for a period of time, it deactivates its signal transmission, making it significantly harder for thieves to use relay attacks to unlock and steal your Volvo S60.
Identifying Motion Sensing Keys: You can distinguish motion sensing keys by their manufacturer (Huf) model number. Non-MS keys are model HUF8423, while motion sensing keys are HUF8423MS. The FCCID, often used when selling used keys, is also a reliable identifier: YGOHUF8423 (non-MS) and YGOHUF8423MS (MS). These numbers are typically printed inside the key fob, under the area where the emergency key blade sits. For the sport key tag versions, the model numbers are HUF8432/HUF8432MS, and the FCCIDs are YGOHUF8432/YGOHUF8432MS. Note that these specific model numbers and FCCIDs are for 434MHz frequency keys.
Interchangeability: Both motion sensing and non-motion sensing keys are interchangeable. You can program either type to your Volvo S60 regardless of the original key type. The motion sensing feature is entirely self-contained within the key fob itself and doesn’t require any specific car settings.
Key Fob Variations – Styles and Shells
Volvo has offered various aesthetic styles of key fobs over the years, with some perceived changes in material quality.
Shell Styles: For instance, older Volvo S60 models (like 2019) came with two leather-shell key fobs (color-matched to the interior) and a buttonless waterproof sport key tag. Newer models often come with two plastic-shell key fobs. Volvo also offers accessory replacement key shells in different colors and materials like wood grain.
Shell Compatibility and Swapping: Importantly, all key fob shells appear to be compatible with all fob internals. This means you can easily swap shells to customize the look of your key or even upgrade from a plastic shell to a leather one. If you acquire used MS keys with basic plastic shells, you can transfer your original leather shells to them for a more premium feel.
Button Color Variations: Some plastic shell keys come with black buttons, while others have silver buttons. Swapping shells can alter the button color appearance, but the key’s functionality remains unchanged.
Sport Key Tag: The sport key tag is a unique, buttonless, waterproof key. While the battery is not designed to be replaced, it is possible with some effort. Used sport key tags are available, but battery life should be considered. Motion sensing versions of the sport key tag are also available.
Key Fob Variations – Restricted Key and Care Key
Volvo has also introduced “special” key types with restricted functionalities:
Restricted Key (Red Key): This red key fob limits certain vehicle functions. It can enforce speed limits, restrict stereo volume, and prevent the deactivation of some safety features. This is often used for valet parking or when lending your car.
Care Key (Orange Key): The orange Care Key allows you to set a maximum speed limit for the vehicle. If no speed limit is set, it functions as a normal key. This key is designed to promote safer driving habits, especially when the vehicle is driven by less experienced drivers.
Restricted/Care Key Behavior: The functionality of Restricted and Care Keys is determined by the car’s original factory configuration. Here’s how they behave when programmed to your Volvo S60:
- Car Delivered Without Restricted/Care Key (or function disabled): Any red or orange key programmed to the car will function as a normal key.
- Car Delivered with Restricted Key Function: Any red or orange key programmed will operate as a Restricted Key.
- Car Delivered with Care Key Function: Any red or orange key programmed will operate as a Care Key.
Identifying Special Keys: Even if you swap shells, you can identify Restricted (Red) and Care (Orange) keys by the color of the shell release slider on the fob itself, which remains red or orange respectively, regardless of the shell fitted. Both MS and non-MS versions of Red Keys exist, while Care Keys are generally the newer MS type.
Polestar Compatibility: All information above applies equally to Polestar vehicles, which share the same key technology. Polestar models may or may not have offered Restricted/Care Keys, but the Volvo keys are cross-compatible in terms of programming and functionality. The key fobs are essentially the same, just with different shell designs.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the nuances of your Volvo S60 key fob can save you money and hassle when replacements or additional keys are needed. As Volvo S60 models age and keys get lost or damaged, knowing that you can utilize used keys and program them yourself (or through a dealer) provides valuable options beyond expensive new key replacements. Hopefully, this guide has clarified the variations and functionalities of Volvo S60 key fobs, empowering you to make informed decisions about your key needs.
