2007 S40 just packed in on me with the "key error" message.
Ignition won't come on no lights on the instrument panel nothing except that key error message. I replaced the ignition switch, unlocked steering using the tap with a hammer tip I seen. Nothing has worked.

Any help appreciated before I scrap it.

Also Volvo told me the ignition switches need programmed and are not plug and play is this true? Everywhere I've read online says they do not need programmed.

 

What is the precise "key error" message? I know the SCL (Steering Column Lock) module (presumably the one you hammered) DOES need to be programmed when swapped. No idea on the ignition switch, but if the SCL module requires programming, it's hard to imagine that the ignition switch wouldn't. If so, you've gotta just bite the bullet and take your checkbook, and your car on a flatbed to the local stealership.

 

The message is exactly that "key error" everywhere I've looked online says they are plug and play for the ignition switch I have a feeling the dealership were talking crap to get the car up to them and make me throw money at it.

 

Did you plug both wire harness back into the new switch? And tried your other key? New ignition switches do not require a download, there is no software choice in the parts catalog - (unlike other modules that do need a software download to function)

It's possible you have a water damaged CEM, they cause all sorts of bizarre problems - A scan with VIDA would be a good first step.

Companies such as Xemodex can solve CEM problems, you can read common symptoms and their solution here -

https://xemodex.com/us/product/centr...rm-with-turbo/

 

Yes all wires are plugged in as should be I unfortunately only have the one key, I do have another key that came with the ignition switch (used part) but that didn't work either. have been having some bad rain here lately so that could be a possiblity on the water damage.
Will a scan work without the ignition coming on? All I get is key error no other lights on dash.

Another suggestion I've heard is the battery gone bad. In gonna hook jumper cables up to it see if that gives it a boost as I have no battery tester ATM.

 

The new key will turn the new tumbler, but won't have the right immobilizer chip. The old key won't turn the tumbler, but will have the right immobilizer chip. It's possible to swap things around so that the old immobilizer chip is in the new key (kind of obvious how to do that but there's a lot of 'net info on the subject).

But we're still not sure WHICH "key error" message you're getting so the help anyone can give you is severely limited.

 

? there is no tumbler on a 07

 

Oops - true 'nuff! Thanks for the correction (I was thinking about an older Volvo I had).

 

This is what comes up on dash no matter what position key is in

 

What does VIDA come up with when it is scanned?

 

havnt got it scanned yet. Will the scanner work with no ignition lights on?