Top 5 Causes of Volvo XC90 Radio Not Working!
The Volvo XC90 radio not working could be a consequence of malfunctioning components linked to the audio system.
Initially, I would doubt the ATM module, connection issues, missing radio tunnels, and power disruption to be at fault. However, the XC90 radio may stop working due to rare causes such as a fiber optic network failure.
Keep on reading…
5 Reasons Your Volvo XC90 Radio Not Working
Let’s discuss the most common culprit behind making the radio unable to function. I will shed some light on the solutions as well.
Reasons #1: Faulty ATM Module
If you are dealing with a 2006 Volvo xc90 radio not working, then chances are the ATM module antenna is at fault.
A big sign is the Volvo xc90 radio turns on and off spontaneously. It will shut off for 5 to 10 seconds only to power back. The random intervals are what makes it confusing at first. Turning the unit on may get the radio back to working only to shut down after a short period.
The ATM module may malfunction over time. This results in intermitted power disruption. You may come across such challenges if the battery was replaced a year or two before.
Solution: The module will need replacement to fix the power fluctuation. The radio should go back to normal as soon as the compatible new module is available.
Reasons #2: Due To the Connection Problem
A 2016 Volvo xc90 radio not working may indicate connection-related issues in the unit. Especially if the radio goes on and off in a peculiar manner.
You might observe other vehicle systems being impacted as well. Connection-related issues can contribute to low beam bulb problems in the XC90.
You may also find one side getting favored over the other. Initially, you can try switching channels and reconnecting the speakers. This should help with any wiring or speaker-related connection issues.
For an amplifier located under the seat, this could also be a problematic coaxial cable situation. Sometimes loose pieces of plastic in the area can also include the complexity of the issue.
The amplifier can also go dead, leading to complete audio failure causing the radio to not work. Water-related damage can cause such a scenario more than often. There are some indicators to tell whether the amplifier has gone bad.
Regarding the signs of a malfunctioning amplifier, I completely agree with Car Electronics‘ share. This includes distorted sound, insufficient volume, blown fuses, and potential issues like excessive heat.
Solution: Replacing the coaxial cable connecting to the radio unit may solve the issue. You also need to make sure there’s no loose plastic piece, attach any that’s found. And of course, if the situation worsens, consider going for an amplifier or radio unit replacement.
Reasons #3: Missing Radio Tunnel
Several Volvo XC90 Volvo XC90 MK1 (2002-2014) owners share that the radio unit fails to work with the Android head unit due to a missing tunnel. The absence of this radio tunnel can disrupt functions on the head unit. Getting static on every channel is a big sign of this issue.
Solution: To fix this you need to install the necessary radio antenna. Access the head unit to detect the specific radio antenna socket. Then you should be good to install the needed radio antenna into the socket. You can also adjust the antenna cable by using a connector.
Related: Volvo XC90 Start Prevented Try Again Message
Reasons #4: Power Disruption Causing Radio Problems
Fuse-related fuss may make the 2004 Volvo xc90 radio to not work. While with the 2007 XC90, battery-related power disruption can lead to radio issues.
A weak battery causing power disruption should be fixed quickly. Or you’ll notice more problems showing up. For example, the infamous “start prevented, try again” message issue in xc90.
Anyways, wiring issues can also cause problems with the radio unit. Encountering a blank screen after connecting to the factory radio is a sign of power disruption. You may be able to access the settings menu. But anything beyond that is difficult to navigate.
Solution: First, you should make sure the battery is connected properly. Then also check for blown fuses that work for the radio. If you find any, replace them immediately. And finally, getting a scan tool such as VIDA should help in better diagnosis of this issue. This requires professional involvement.
Reasons #5: It Could be a Fiber Optic Network.
Finding your 2013 Volvo xc90 radio not working could be linked to a fiber optic network error. You will find “High-Performance sound” text displayed.
To check, put on reverse mode with full ignition on and then try the radio system. Any momentary beep confirms an issue with a fiber optic network component. Using a connector can help loop out units while checking for problems here.
Solution: Make sure the fiber optic leads are connected. You should also check the fuses for radio system modules. Improper placement of the fuse also needs correction. Also, watch out for corrected wire in amplifier connections.
If none of these seem to be the culprit, chances are the unit has been damaged and you need a Volvo xc90 radio replacement.
How to do a Volvo xc90 radio reset?
For the 2015-2023 Volvo XC90, you need to park, turn off the engine, and then look for a reset button in the glove box to hold it until the stereo cycles off and on. With 2002-2014 models, disconnect the negative cable of the battery to wait a while before reconnecting it.
Where is Volvo xc90 radio fuse located?
Volvo xc90 radio fuse is found in two spots typically. First is the driver seat near the interior fuse box. Or it could be at the back of a car radio, on power supply wires, or inside a black fuse box.
Wrapping Up
So, as you can see, quite a few issues can lead to the Volvo xc90 radio not working. More complex problems with sunroof drain clogs, faulty Yaw rate sensors or aftermarket units, and issues with CEM can also be responsible for the malfunctioning radio in xc90.
If you doubt any of these, contact an expert for further diagnosis as it requires professional handling.
I shall see you in my next guide soon, take care!
