Experiencing problems with your Volvo XC40 key fob can be incredibly frustrating. While the first thought might be a dead key fob battery, sometimes the issue is more complex. If you’re finding your Volvo Xc40 Key Fob Battery life is shorter than expected, or your key fob is working intermittently, it’s worth investigating beyond just replacing the battery.
The Frustrating Reality of Intermittent Key Fob Problems
Many Volvo XC40 owners have encountered situations where their key fobs become unreliable. Initially, the problem might seem random – sometimes the fob works, sometimes it doesn’t. You might find yourself needing to be very close to the car for the keyless entry to function, or even having to place the key fob in the center console to start the vehicle. This was the experience of one owner, who initially faced intermittent issues that eventually escalated to complete key fob failure. Driving became impossible after running out of gas, highlighting the critical nature of a functioning key fob.
Could a Leaky Antenna Be the Real Culprit?
While a dead volvo xc40 key fob battery is a common and simple fix, a less obvious but potentially significant cause for key fob issues in Volvo XC40s, particularly 2019 and later models, could be a leak in the fin antenna. This issue, documented in a Volvo service bulletin for 2021 and 2022 models, can also affect earlier years like 2019 because the antenna design is the same.
The Service Bulletin and the 2019 Model
The service bulletin addresses water ingress through the fin antenna, which can lead to corrosion and malfunction of the Keyless Entry Module, also known as the MAM (Multimedia Antenna Module). Despite a dealership initially dismissing the service bulletin for a 2019 model, arguing it wasn’t applicable, the owner’s experience suggests otherwise. A technician’s visual inspection, simply wiggling the antenna to check for sturdiness, proved insufficient to detect the subtle leak. The problem recurred after the first rain, confirming the antenna leak as the likely root cause.
Water Damage and the MAM Module
When water penetrates the fin antenna, it can directly impact the MAM module located beneath it. This module is crucial for keyless entry and key fob functionality. Water ingress can cause short circuits and corrosion within the MAM, leading to the intermittent and eventually complete failure of the key fobs. The owner’s experience underscores this point: even after a MAM replacement, the issue persisted because the antenna leak wasn’t addressed with a proper seal.
What to Do If You’re Experiencing Key Fob Issues
If you’re noticing erratic behavior from your Volvo XC40 key fob, don’t immediately assume it’s just the volvo xc40 key fob battery. Consider these steps:
Check the Basics (Battery)
While it might not be the only issue, start by replacing the volvo xc40 key fob battery. It’s a simple and inexpensive first step to rule out a low battery. Refer to your owner’s manual for instructions on how to change the battery, typically a CR2032 type.
Consider the Antenna Leak and Consult Your Dealer
If replacing the battery doesn’t solve the problem, or if the issues return quickly, raise the possibility of a fin antenna leak with your Volvo service department. Specifically, mention the Volvo service bulletin QB A10140 (dated 12/09/21), which recommends applying silicone tape to seal the fin antenna after MAM replacement. Explain that 2019 models and potentially others might be susceptible to this issue despite not being explicitly listed in the bulletin.
It’s important to emphasize to your service advisor the need to investigate the antenna leak, even if it requires dropping the rear headliner to access the MAM module. Proper diagnosis and addressing the potential antenna leak can prevent recurring key fob problems and ensure the long-term reliability of your Volvo XC40’s keyless entry system. Don’t let a seemingly simple volvo xc40 key fob battery issue mask a potentially more significant problem.
