2008-2017 Volvo XC60 – How to Unlock Car and Start It When the Battery is Dead

Difficulty

Easy

Time

5 minutes

Is your Volvo not responding to your keyfob? The battery inside the key fob, a CR 2430, 3 V (2015 Volvo XC60 Owner’s Manual, 65), might be dead. The car battery may be dead as well. Keyfob batteries do not last forever, and while a dead keyfob battery might be a huge inconvenience, it is an easy fix, and your car can still get you where you need to go. This guide will walk you through how to access the physical key in your keyfob, get your car running again, and change the battery on your keyfob.

Required Tools

  • The physical key that is hidden inside of your keyfob.
  • A screwdriver.
  • A new keyfob battery.

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Remove the physical key from your keyfob by locating and pushing the tab on the key ring to remove the cover of the keyfob.
    Emergency Key
    Note: All keyfobs contain a backup key in case of an emergency.
  2. Find the keyhole on the driver’s side door. On the 2016-2025 Volvo XC90, the keyhole can be found under a cover next to the driver’s side door handle. To remove this cap, insert your emergency keyblade into the small hole under the cap.
    Driver Door Handle
  3. Insert the key and unlock the door.
    Emergency Unlock
    ⚠️Warning: Do not force the key; you might break it.
  4. Open the door. If the battery on your keyfob is dead, but you still need to drive, place your keyfob in the slot under the ignition button to start the car.
    Emergency Start Location
  5. To change the battery on your keyfob, follow these steps:
    • Remove the emergency keyblade.
    • Use a small screwdriver to remove the cover.
    • remove the old batteries, and insert the new one + side facing down.
    • Put the keyfob cover back on, and then reinsert the emergency keyblade.
      (2015 Volvo XC60 Owner’s Manual, 65)
  6. If the car battery is dead, the battery will need to be jump-started and possibly replaced. Follow our guide, “Volvo XC60 – How to Jump Start a Dead Battery.”

This information is based on the 2015 Volvo XC60 owner’s manual, and it is always best to refer to your specific manual for the most accurate and detailed instructions.

Important Tips

  • Keep the physical key accessible.
  • Check the battery of your keyfob regularly.

When to Seek Professional Help

  • The key is broken or missing the emergency key blade inside.
  • The door handle is broken and won’t unlock.
  • The vehicle will not recognize you even when you place it in the center cup holder.