I bought a 2009 C70. It had one key. I want a backup. I bought a key on eBay, but the Volvo dealer says it cannot be reprogrammed to my car. True or not true? What do I do now?

 

The newer cars have keys that have a RF microchip that is programmed to your car. Without the chip the key is useless (you might be able to get it cut to open the trunk or something, MAYBE) but as far as starting the car, no.

Only thing to do is see if the previous owner still has a key or shell out BIG bucks to buy a programmable one from the dealer.

 

CopyThe key with non-chipped blanks and take the original key and tape it under the dash. The original key will do the RF part and the copies will turn the ignition.

 

May cause a draw since the key is probably active RFID and not a passive like older models.

 

I suspect above concern is valid. Recently, when I purchased my 2007, the dealer warned against leaving the key near the door or the dash, as after a couple days it would drain the battery.

 

Thanks for the responses, but it doesn't seem that I have a choice but to buy a VOLVO key and have them program it. Communists!!!
On the other hand, Dale66vt, why would that drain the key's battery? Does it turn off once the car is started? If it doesn't, you can't take the car on an extended drive.
Sorry, it just seems lame that a car company would build such gestapo measures into a product designed to please the customer. Love the car; hate Volvo.

 

My understanding was it's not the key's battery; but, the car's battery that would drain down.
I believe the car receives a signal from (or senses) the key, above any input when you press a button, such as to unlock or lock the car.
I could be completely wrong and will try to do a little further research.

 

Couldn't find anything that confirmed what I thought I was told.
FYI, manual is available on-line at http://new.volvocars.com/ownersdocs/...0/07c70_00.htm
Sorry I couldn't be of further assistance.

 

I have an '08 and since the day I got it, May 2008, I have left my keys in the console by the shifter while parked in my garage. Only time the keys are with me is when I park away from home. All winter the car is not used and those keys remain in the car. Never had a problem with the car battery.....yet! Never thought about it either. I need to research this a bit.

I had heard a similar tale about my VW Touareg..that even parked in my garage, I have to set the alarm or the car battery would drain. Never happened. The only complaint I've heard about the battery draining is strangely enough when parked for a lengthy time at an airport.

 

Under the impression we are discussing specifically keyless go style systems and not just a smart card key fob. Do both your VW and C have one, or does the OP have one. Rereading the posts I think we are on different systems.

 

gverholek-
I was looking though www.volvospeed.com and came across a link to a key/keyless/etc. outfit. You might call them and see what you can learn.
https://www.ikeyless.com/testimonials
https://www.ikeyless.com/about
https://www.ikeyless.com/vehicles/Volvo/C70/2009
Let us know how you do and what you learn.
Regards.

 

Just picked up a 2000 c70 convert, promptly lost only key/fob. (Had spousal help.) So tow into dealer and $410 later have key fob and 2 keys. Did the 2k have the 'active' chip in the key, too? If not, I'll be putting the extra someplace under the dash. Will the key disable the alarm without the fob?

Is there an owners manual out there for this one, too?

thanks, John