Maybe someone can give me some insight here. I installed a Sony aftermarket stereo in GF's2004s60. not following instructions I didnt disconnect the neg battery cable prior to installand upon completion of install I got the check AB mess.

Fast forward, girly goes to dealer for oil change, asks them to clear code. The tech proceeds to tell her that installing aftermarket stereos cause the computer to malfunction and that if she was in a accident the AB wouldnt have deployed. They(more than one person) also said it will more than likely throwanother code and could even cause her car not to pass emissions testing.

Were they blowing smoke? Im sure theres got to be lots of Volvos with different stereos...

 

They are not blowing smoke.
The factory radio is a Computer in the Network of the car. If it is remove the other computers in the network have problems.

But there is some what of a solution for it.(which I am suprised they didn't say)
She needs to get a software download to remove the factory radio as a computer.
It should cost about $30.00 for the Software and 1 hour labor. (Some dealers only charge 1/2 hour)
That will fix everything.

 

can you get this done after youve installed your aftermarket stereo?

 

Yes you can.