Volvo 4G Modem Upgrade Cost- Is It Necessary?

Volvo vehicle users have reported an issue saying their Volvo services were not working after a modem update. Users are now forced to upgrade their 3G modem to 4G to get their infotainment and other services going. But, how much does the Volvo 4G modem upgrade cost?

Volvo 4G modem upgrade cost ranges from $350-$850 depending on the dealer and the inclusion of other services. If you’re choosing a two-year software subscription option, you might need to pay around $800-$900. If you’re choosing a one-year offer excluding the labor cost, you might get it at $350. 

Stay with me as I break down the cost for you and share my experience on the pros and cons of this modem upgrade.

Volvo 4G Modem Upgrade Cost- Different Dealer, Different Offer, Different Price

As Volvo left users with no choice other than upgrading the modem to 4G, many users texted me or mailed me panicking about the emails they were receiving from their dealer.

They were frustrated about the price, and the offers, and the forums were filled with complaints on different price tags. Let’s break it down for you.

After Volvo released a bulletin saying the 3G modems would no longer work, Volvo users received upgrade offers.

The price of modem upgrades can range from $350 to $900 excluding tax. Many dealers asked for as much as $1500 for this upgrade. 

The price depends on multiple factors. If you’re getting the upgrade for $350, you must remember that it doesn’t include the required hardware and labor costs. But, it offers a subscription for a year of Volvo’s services. 

The deals above $800 include a two-year subscription offer and also the cost of hardware, labor cost, and other software services.

So, if you include the labor cost which is not cheap, the price will go high. I recommend taking the two-year offer with labor costs. 

What Is Volvo 3G Network Sunset?

AT&T is Volvo’s partner in providing network services. In February 2022, AT&T declared that they would shut down all the network services to vehicles using 3G modems. This is known as the 3G network sunset.

This caused all vehicles running on 3G modems to be disconnected from Volvo services. AT&T removed the physical equipment necessary for the network, eventually shutting down all services.

What Will Happen if You Don’t Upgrade Your Modem To 4G?

According to Volvo and AT&T, the 3G modems will no longer be functional. As you know, the modem is the only source of internet connection to your Volvo vehicle and connects you with multiple services.

After the shutdown, users could no longer obtain the following services:

• Volvo Infotainment system
• Sensus services
• SOS
• Volvo OnCall in-car
• Other Volvo car apps

So, if you don’t upgrade your car modem to 4G, you’re going to deprive yourself of all the above-mentioned services. Your car wouldn’t be able to connect to your phone and even in some cases, you might not be able to get the GPS services.

Models That Are Affected By The 3G Network Sunset

If your Volvo car is running on a 3G modem, it’ll be affected by the 3G sunset. Below are the models that require a 4G modem upgrade for full functionality:

• Volvo XC60 (2015-2017)
• Volvo S60 (2015-2017)
• Volvo S80 (2015-2016)
• Volvo V60 (2015-2017)
• Volvo XC70 (2015-2016)
• 2016 Volvo XC90

Volvo car models after 2017 won’t be affected by the 3G network sunset.

There Is No Added Feature Of The 4G Modem Upgrade

Volvo 3G to 4G modem upgrade is a necessity rather than an actual upgrade. The modem will come with no other benefits. But, it’s a big jump in terms of connectivity. 

You’ll have a faster and more stable connection with the infotainment system. The Volvo car apps will work smoother and the updates will also be faster.

Other than connectivity, there is no change in the services.

Warranty Unfortunately Wouldn’t Cover Your Upgrade Cost

The Volvo 4G modem upgrade cost is not covered by your warranty. It’s a hard pill to swallow. Despite it being a hardware upgrade, Volvo explained why the upgrade is not covered by warranty.

According to Volvo, the cars were manufactured with equipment compatible with the technologies of that time. Any upgrade in technological equipment is not supported by Volvo’s warranty policy.

Besides, the decision to upgrade came from AT&T, not Volvo. Volvo will replace equipment that is the same or equivalent to the ones present in your cars.

Where To Get The Volvo 4G Modem Upgrade From?

Volvo 4G modem upgrade can be done from your Volvo retailer or dealer. You can also contact Volvo customer care and they will guide you with the necessary information.

But, I’d recommend you to get the upgrade from an authorized dealer who’s well aware of the update, all the necessary troubleshooting, and have good communication with Volvo customer services.

Other unauthorized dealers might offer you a better price, but, they’ll lack a smooth service. So, pay a little bit extra to avoid such hassle. 

Common Problems Reported After The 4G Modem Upgrade

Unfortunately, the 4G modem upgrade was full of unpleasant experiences. Users reported tons of problems after the installation of the modem. 

Here are some of those issues:

• Many users reported that they were unable to connect to the services after the upgrade. This was the most common issue.
• Losing connection frequently.
• Users were unable to start the car with the apps
• Volvo car apps not connecting
• GPS not updating the map

If you’re experiencing any problem with the connection, contact your dealer and Volvo customer service immediately. 

Tips To Deal With The Problems After Volvo 4G Modem Upgrade

The problems after the Volvo 4G modem upgrade are frustrating. You pay a huge sum of money and get these problems instead.

The good news is, these problems are fixable. I helped many users with simple troubleshooting methods. Here are a few things you can try if you’re facing these problems:

• Try to wait in an area that has a strong signal.
• After the upgrade, go to My Car settings> Internet settings> Connect through> Car modem> Press OK on car modem. This will likely fix the issue.
• In most cases, it can only be solved by Volvo customer care services. Contact them as soon as possible. They will get back to you soon. 

Is The Upgrade Worth The Money- Reality Check

With a hefty amount of money, and connection errors after error, the upgrade might seem like a wrong move. But, if you want to continue with the infotainment system, SOS, OnCall service, Volvo car apps, or even the navigation system, you MUST upgrade your modem to 4G.

So, it’s unfortunate for those dealing with this problem. But, that’s the only option you’re left with.

Conclusion

Volvo 3G modems have stopped working and the company has made it obvious that you would require a 4G modem upgrade to get access to their services. Volvo 4G modem upgrade cost is a significant blow for many.

But, looking at the circumstances, it’s an investment you must make to get the services that are necessary to have a smoother journey with your Volvo.