Volvo Vida (Vehicle Information and Diagnostics for Aftersales) is the essential software for independent mechanics and technicians working on Volvo vehicles. It provides comprehensive access to vital information, including service and parts data, wiring schematics, and software downloads. This guide covers everything you need to know about Volvo VIDA, from subscriptions and diagnostic tools to installation and usage.
Understanding Volvo VIDA Subscriptions
VIDA subscriptions cater to a range of users, from full-service shops to individual mechanics. Different subscription levels offer varying access to features. Wiring schematics for model years 1994-2016 are available as separate online PDF subscriptions. However, schematics for 2016 and newer models (XC90, S90, V90, and similar platforms) are accessible only within a VIDA subscription that includes Diagnostics or Diagnostics and Software Download. Importantly, VIDA subscriptions purchased through Volvo Tech Info are exclusively for use in North America on North American market vehicles.
Diagnostic Tools for Volvo Vehicles
Modern Volvo vehicles built on the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) and Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) platforms require the Volvo Ethernet (VOE) adapter for diagnostics.
Here’s a breakdown of SPA vehicle models and their corresponding types and model years:
| Model | Type | Model Years |
|---|---|---|
| XC90 | 256 | 2016-Present |
| S90 | 234 | 2017 |
| S90 | 238 | 2018-Present |
| V90 | 235 | 2017-Present |
| V90CC | 236 | 2017-Present |
| XC60 | 246 | 2018-Present |
| S60 | 224 | 2019-Present |
| V60 | 225 | 2019-Present |
| V60CC | 227 | 2019-Present |
The VOE adapter (part number 9513108) connects to the vehicle’s OBDII port and the laptop’s Ethernet port. An Ethernet RJ45 cable (9513095) is also required. If the laptop’s Ethernet port is in use, a USB to Ethernet adapter is necessary.
For older P3 platform Volvos, the DiCE (Diagnostic Communication Equipment) tool is the preferred diagnostic interface. Refer to Special Tool Bulletin 00-160 for more details on DiCE. Note that DiCE is incompatible with SPA and CMA platform vehicles.
Accessing Volvo Tech Info and VIDA
Users must consistently log into the volvotechinfo.com (VTI) website using the same VTI username, as it’s linked to their VIDA account. VIDA subscriptions are tied to the user ID, not the computer, allowing one subscription per user. Remember that Volvo Tech Info and VIDA are distinct systems with separate login credentials.
Purchasing VIDA Subscriptions
When purchasing a VIDA subscription for software downloads, choose the “VIDA PARTS, SERVICE, DIAGNOSTICS, AND SOFTWARE DOWNLOAD” option. First-time VIDA subscribers will receive an email with their VIDA Partner ID, username, and temporary password. It’s crucial to follow the email instructions to reset the pre-expired password before accessing VIDA or VIDA Admin. All VIDA notifications will be sent to the email address associated with the account.
Installing VIDA
The VIDA installer can be downloaded from https://vidainstaller.volvocars.biz/client-installer/VIDASetup.exe. After purchasing a subscription, you’ll receive a VIDA User ID via email. Reset the temporary password immediately using the provided instructions. Once the password is reset, you can activate the subscription. A three-day subscription provides 72 consecutive hours of access. Subscriptions cannot be paused or extended. After activating the subscription, software purchases are made individually.
Using the VIDA System
VIDA offers extensive help documentation accessible by pressing the “F1” key or clicking the help link in the lower right corner of the application. To order software, fully profile the vehicle, address all Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), navigate to the Software section within VIDA, and follow the purchase prompts.
Volvo VIDA: Your Key to Volvo Repair
Volvo VIDA empowers independent mechanics with the information and tools necessary to diagnose and repair Volvo vehicles effectively. By understanding the different aspects of VIDA, from subscriptions to installation and usage, you can unlock the full potential of this powerful diagnostic software.
