Programming and Replacing the Control Module

Programming and replacing the control module

General
It is not possible to download new software into the immobilizer control module.
To program the ignition keys, the control module must first be unlocked using a PIN code. VIDA automatically unlocks the control module. The PIN code is then retrieved directly from the Volvo Central Database.

Programming a new control module
The immobilizer control module is supplied pre-programmed with a number of default parameters and two diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) stored. The diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) indicate that the control module has not been programmed for use in a vehicle.
When programming a new control module, only the unique PIN code intended for unlocking is downloaded first. Then the unique codes necessary for the immobilizer control module to communicate with both the VGLA (Volvo guard lock and alarm system) control module and the engine control module (ECM) are downloaded. The immobilizer control module cannot be moved from one car to another because of the unique PIN codes and the codes for communication with the VGLA (Volvo guard lock and alarm system) control module and the engine control module (ECM).
All settings are stored in the immobilizer control module but not in the Volvo central database. This means that the settings must be reprogrammed when the hardware is replaced. New keys are provided with a new control module. These are programmed into the new control module.
Keys programmed for another control module cannot be used. The keys can only be programmed once. "Old" keys cannot be programmed into a new control module.
The engine control module (ECM) automatically learns the codes from the immobilizer control module the first time the ignition is switched on, after both the control modules are installed in the vehicle. This means that both the control modules are bound to each other and means that the engine control module (ECM) will only accept commands from the immobilizer control module whose code is programmed.

Note! In vehicles with the Melco2 (B4184SJ) engine management system the "marriage" occurs immediately when a new immobilizer control module or new engine control module (ECM) is programmed using VIDA.

Programming ignition keys




Ignition keys can be added or erased. A maximum of 6 key IDs can be programmed into the immobilizer control module. When programming a key, the control module identifies the relevant key and stores it in the control module memory.
The erase function is used when the customer wishes to prevent one or more keys from being used to start the vehicle. The keys may have been stolen and could be traced back to the vehicle.
During programming, when the control module receives a code from one of the remaining keys, all previous keys are erased from the control module. Only the code from the last used key is stored. The remaining keys must be programmed into the control module again. This corrective action can only be carried out on keys previously programmed into the control module.
It is important therefore that the customer takes all the keys to the dealership.

Note! No other ignition key must be hanging with the key to be programmed when programming due to the risk of communication interference with the key.