Help! Volvo XC90 BLIS Not Working (Find Quick Fixes)

The Volvo xc90 BLIS not working could be a sign of severe underlying issues in rare cases. Most of the time some simple malfunctions are responsible for such errors.

The BLIS may not work in xc90 due to dirty sensors switching off the system, faulty wiring, software-related issues, or obstacles in the camera. Each of these issues will require a different set of solutions.

In this guide, let’s address these common troublemakers for a malfunctioning BLIS system and find appropriate solutions.

4 Key Reasons Your Volvo XC90 BLIS Not Working

I’ve listed down 4 main culprits usually behind a failing BLIS system in xc90. You’ll find suggested solutions as well.

1: BLIS Switched Off Due To Dirty Sensors

Once you detect the xc90 BLIS not functioning, make sure it is not due to a simple user error. This is usually true if you find the BLIS unavailable despite not seeing any error messages on the dashboard. 

Most probably the BLIS function is switched off. Now this may not simply happen due to an accidental toggle of any switch. Sometimes the problem lies within the sensor.

The BLIS radar sensors are responsible for blind spot monitoring. You may wonder where the BLIS sensors are located in xc90?

The BLIS sensors are located right above the bumpers on the back corners. Due to road conditions, it could be possible that the sensors have accumulated excessive dirt. Hence the BLIS is failing to activate.

Solution: To fix sensor-related errors with the BLIS, you need to look for dirt accumulation and clean the area. You also want to make sure the positioning of the sensor is accurate Furthermore, confirm the sensors are working without any issues and require no repair or replacement. Follow up with a reactivation of the BLIS system and see if it starts working as normal.

2: Software Glitch Disturbing the BLIS

If you discover the green light upon pressing the BLIS button, it suggests that the system is getting power. You may want to check the corresponding fuse to further confirm that the system is receiving power. 

In such a scenario the BLIS not functioning often indicates a software glitch. You may witness more complications from computer failure if appropriate steps are not taken quickly, for example, the infamous start prevented try again message error on xc90. 

Solution: To fix any software-related problem, you should consult with a professional and get the BLIS system service required.  A firmware update should be enough to resolve this issue. Also, you may see positive results with a simple reset. Now how do you reset the BLIS on a Volvo?

To reset the BLIS on Volvo you simply need to deactivate it and wait for any error message to clear. This should take 5 seconds. Or you may press the OK button available on the steering wheel. The CTA should automatically activate after completing the process.

3: Faulty Wiring in BLIS System

It could also be a straightforward case of the BLIS not functioning due to a loose connection or faulty wiring in the system. Due to the connection error, the system is not able to operate correctly. Finding the responsible wiring within the mechanism is the first step to take.

Solution: Isolating each wiring to confirm which one is loose or faulty will help you determine the culprits. You should tighten or replace the wiring in question causing the error. This could be a difficult and time-consuming process. Hence it may be a good idea to hire someone for this task.

4: BLIS Blinking Rapidly on One Side.

If you find the BLIS blinking on one or both sides quite continuously, this could be a camera-related issue. The blink-happening side may have something blocking the camera on the same side. 

However, this problem is not limited to only malfunctioning cameras. It can take place due to several other reasons. Also, it is a widely reported issue within xc90 users, unfortunately. 

Things can soon become trickier if there are no error codes or messages displayed on the dash. Potential hardware issues could also be the case.

Solution: Try restarting the Volvo and see if this temporarily solves the problem. If so, it could be a hard-to-detect issue that you must solve with the help of a dealer or a local professional. 

Make sure you attempt to correctly deactivate and activate BLIS to restart the system. Pressing the center console located BLIS button should deactivate the system. Now how do you activate the BLIS?

To activate BLIS on your Volvo you simply need to start the engine, and wait for the system to flash indicator lights. The system is usually automatically activated as soon as the engine is operating. 

For the camera on the problematic blinking side to be the troublemaker, you will require a replacement of the unit. If there are more hardware issues, additional troubleshooting will be necessary.

Key Considerations To Keep Volvo XC90 BLIS Working

• At all times, keep the surface of the sensors responsible for the BLIS system clean. You want to do this for both sensors located on the right and left sides.
• Any accessory such as trailers, racks, or carriers connected to the electrical system will cause the BLIS to automatically deactivate.
• Sharp bends may hamper the functioning of BLIS as it is one of the inherent limitations of the system. The same goes for when the vehicle is in reverse mode.

Wrapping Up

As soon as you catch your Volvo xc90 BLIS not working it’s important to take necessary steps to fix it. Additionally, being mindful of the limitations that the system comes with plus taking much-needed maintenance steps for its optimal performance should be a part of your vehicle routine. 

One thing to keep in mind is that solely depending on the Blind Spot Information can be risky. End of the day, it’s also a technology meant to help you control the vehicle. Always be extra careful during lane changes or backups. I’m working on sharing more Volvo insights in my upcoming guides, keep anticipating. Meanwhile, you may find my thoughts on sunroof-related problems in xc90 interesting to give a quick read!