Volvo Link Hardware Failure- 6 Easy Troubleshooting Tips
Volvo Link is a two-way communication technology installed in Volvo trucks that allows easy transmission of data including location, mileage, fuel, and other diagnostic data in the cockpit of the driver. Many Volvo users have reported some issues regarding this software. So, what does the Volvo Link hardware failure message mean and how can you troubleshoot such an issue?
Volvo link hardware failure is a common error message that pops up on the screen of a Volvo truck when there is an issue with the software. The issue is either related to the components or the software itself. You can fix it by restarting the truck or updating or removing it from your vehicle.
I’ll try to give you a better understanding of the error message and the fixes in this article. Let’s dive deeper then!
Understanding Volvo Link Hardware Failure- What’s Volvo Link?
Years ago, Volvo installed a technology called the Volvo link that allows communication between the vehicle and the driver. It’s a two-way communication system where multiple components are used.
The software was designed with satellite technology and a high-performance modem. Before the internet was thoroughly available, Volvo designed this technology to help drivers connect to their terminals.
Volvo Link helps drivers to know about the diagnostic codes, their location, reports on mileage, and fuel consumption, and also has pre-formatted messages to allow smooth communication.
The system includes harnesses, cables, a GPS antenna, an ECU, and a dash switch.
Why Does The Volvo Link Hardware Failure Message Pop Up?
Now that you have a clear understanding of what Volvo Link is, let’s focus on your concern, the error message. It looks something like this, ‘Volvo Link Hardware Failure- Use paperwork logbook’.
The good news is that this is fairly a common issue. Many Volvo users have reported the issue to me and in most cases, I’ve been able to help them with the troubleshooting.
The reason behind this error code is still not fully understood. Any problem with the wiring or signaling components can be a cause. As there are only a few components in this system, it’s easy to check them for any issues.
Another cause of this error is not updating the software regularly. A problem with the satellite signal can also be the culprit sometimes.
So, to sum up the causes of this code, I believe it’s the software or the components of the system behind this.
These Are The Symptoms Of Volvo Link Hardware Failure
As the Volvo link is associated with connecting the truck with the internet, and the integration of the messaging system of the truck, the problems will manifest in different ways.
Here are the most common symptoms of Volvo link hardware failure:
- Disabled Connection: The most common symptom is connection error. This is due to any damage in the module, the wiring, or simply a glitch.
As the Link module helps the truck to connect with the internet, drivers might experience an unstable internet connection, errors in the GPS, and messaging system, and unsynchronized data.
- Crash in the system: Another symptom of Volvo Link hardware failure might come out as a systemic crash. The display will freeze or the screen will go blank. This can cause interruptions in the entertainment equipment, navigation, and digital features.
- Faulty Sensors: Volvo Link integrates all the sensors of the truck to relay messages in the display. The monitoring of performance, engine condition, any fault code, tire and fuel conditions, temperature, and other parameters are done by the Volvo link. If the software crashes, the vehicle might not show any readings, or show unwanted fault code.
These symptoms might not show in every instance. However, users who have problems with the components and wiring have experienced these symptoms.
Troubleshoot Volvo Link Hardware Failure Problem With These 6 Easy Methods
As I’ve mentioned earlier, you can easily troubleshoot the Volvo link hardware failure issue. It’s not necessary to take your vehicle to a mechanic to fix it.
You can clear the error code at home. Below are some of the tested and guaranteed fixes for this issue:
Use Devtool To Make A BID Program
You can use the Devtool to fix the Volvo link hardware failure issue. Here’s how you can fix the issue of Volvo link hardware failure using Devtool software:
- First off, you have to make a parameter BID.
- Connect your vehicle with the software using an OBDll cable.
- You can program this BID in the instrument cluster.
- Once you’ve done that, head to the programming option. There you can choose your instrument cluster.
- In the instrument cluster, you can find the parameter BID. Reset the value of the BID from 171 to 0.
- Save the changes.
- Resetting the parameter BID will clear the error code from your graphic display.
A Software Update Will Resolve The Issue
Volvo Link is a software-based system installed in the Volvo vehicles. The software requires updates once in a while to keep up with the system.
When you’re using an old model of Volvo, the Link system is definitely not compatible with the updated database of Volvo. The incompatibility causes the error message to pop up.
To fix this issue you just have to update the system software of the Volvo link. You can update the software from a dealer. It takes anywhere between 30-45 minutes to update it.
Updating it will come with many other benefits and also clear the error code.
Unplug The Volvo Link System
The Volvo link hardware failure can simply be a glitch in the system or it can sometimes appear if the signals get exhausted. In that case, the fixes are pretty simple.
Follow these instructions to unplug the Volvo Link:
- Firstly, find the Volvo link device which is mostly placed close to the dashboard or under the battery sometimes. In some models, it’s located behind the glove box.
- Simply unplug the module by disconnecting the wires.
- Restart the truck to see whether the error message is resolved or not.
Remove The Volvo Link Programming From Your System
Volvo has released a bulletin saying that a user can remove the Volvo link system as no one really benefits from the system these days. The good news is that removing the module will not affect the safety or the driving performance of the vehicle.
To completely remove the software from the system, I’d recommend you to visit a mechanic. He’ll ensure the system is removed from the vehicle without interrupting other features.
Turn Off The Engine- It Sometimes Clears Up The Message
Sometimes the error code can occur due to a glitch in the software. The communication system relies on satellite technology. The internet can sometimes show glitches.
In such cases, turn off your truck and leave it for 5 minutes. Restart it and if you’re lucky enough the code will disappear.
Ignore The Message Simply
If the Volvo Link system doesn’t interrupt other features or the performance of the vehicle, you can just leave it the way it is. Ignoring the message will not cause any further problems.
Keep in mind that these troubleshooting tips will not work in every instance. Every problem is unique and there can be multiple factors leading to this code.
So, try your chances at home before heading to a mechanic for help.
Can I Drive With Volvo Link Hardware Failure Error Code?
Yes, you can drive with Volvo Link hardware failure code if it’s not interrupting other features of the truck or affecting your performance. In most cases, the error code doesn’t affect the driving performance. So, it’s safe to ignore the code.
Do I Need Help From A Mechanic If The Volvo Link Hardware Failure Message Pops Up?
If you’re facing any issues with the Volvo link, you can fix the issue at home. The problem is not serious and requires little knowledge about vehicles. But, if the system is interrupted by the issue, you must take your car to a professional. The interruptions include connection failures, system crashes, or faulty sensors.
Can I Remove The Volvo Link Hardware System?
According to Volvo, it’s safe to remove the Volvo link system from your vehicle as it won’t have any effect on the performance. Very few people benefit from this system, and for many, it’s better to not have this software. If you find it unnecessary, you can get it removed.
What Are The Benefits Of Volvo Link?
Volvo Link is an integrated communication system within the vehicle and the internet. It allows better monitoring of the driver and also the overall performance of the vehicle including fuel, tires, engine, sensors, and other components.
How To Clear The Volvo Link Hardware Failure- Use Paperwork Logbook Message?
You can clear the error code in multiple ways. You can try to unplug the module and reattach it. You can also use Devtool to clear the message or simply remove the system from your vehicle. If you want to keep it, update the software through a dealer to have a better experience.
Conclusion
Volvo Link hardware failure is a common issue that pops up in front of many drivers. If you have a good knowledge of the system, you don’t have to worry much about it. It’s important to find out what went wrong before troubleshooting the issue.
The software is not necessary in your day-to-day life. If you think it’s causing you a headache, you can remove it. A regular update will help you get all the benefits and prevent error codes.
