Ever seen that “Volvo On Call Service Required” message light up your dashboard? It’s one of those warnings that makes you wonder if you need to pull over immediately or if it can wait until your next service appointment. If you’re puzzled by this alert, you’re in good company—this is actually one of the most common dashboard warnings Volvo owners encounter.
What Is the Volvo On Call System?
The Volvo On Call system is more than just a fancy feature—it’s a comprehensive telematics system that handles everything from emergency assistance to remote vehicle control.
At its core, the system works through the Vehicle Communication Module (VCM), which manages:
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Internet connections
- GPS positioning
- Emergency services communication
Think of it as your car’s communication hub with the outside world. When your airbags deploy, the integrated modem automatically contacts Volvo emergency services, sending your exact location to response teams. Beyond emergencies, it’s what lets you use the Volvo Cars smartphone app to start your engine, adjust climate settings, lock or unlock doors, and track your vehicle’s location.
What Features Does It Include?
New Volvo vehicles come with a four-year complimentary Volvo On Call subscription. After that, you can renew for about $200 annually. The service includes:
- Remote start capabilities
- Scheduled maintenance booking
- Vehicle tracking
- 24/7 roadside assistance
Even without an active subscription, critical safety features like SOS emergency calls remain functional—a reassuring fact for any driver.
Why Am I Seeing the “Service Required” Message?
When your dashboard displays the “Volvo On Call Service Required” message, it usually points to one of several specific issues:
1. VCM Backup Battery Failure
This is the #1 culprit behind the service message. The VCM contains a small lithium-ion backup battery (450 milliamp hours) that powers the module when your main vehicle battery loses power or during accidents when electrical systems might be compromised.
This backup battery typically lasts 6-8 years before needing replacement. When it fails, your system will often show specific fault codes:
- U210909 (Back-up Battery Component Failures)
- U210996 (Back-up Battery Component Internal Fault)
- U105000 (Back-up Battery Life Exceedance)
2. Auxiliary Battery Problems
Unlike your main starter battery, the auxiliary 12V battery supports various electronic systems including start-stop functionality. When this battery can’t maintain proper voltage levels (dropping below 12 volts), the VCM loses adequate power and triggers service alerts.
These problems commonly occur in vehicles that:
- Experience infrequent use
- Are primarily driven for short distances
The auxiliary battery generally lasts 5-7 years, depending on your driving habits and local climate.
3. Software Glitches
Sometimes the problem isn’t hardware at all but software-related. Volvo has issued multiple Technical Service Bulletins addressing software issues that can falsely trigger service alerts even when the hardware components work perfectly.
Recent software updates have specifically addressed false positive alerts, particularly in 2017-2018 models. Some updates reset internal countdown timers within the VCM that are programmed to alert after predetermined time periods regardless of actual battery condition.
How to Diagnose the Problem
Before rushing to the dealership, here’s how to assess what might be going on with your Volvo On Call system:
Check Your Vehicle’s Age and Warranty Status
If your vehicle is still under warranty, you’re in luck—diagnostic evaluation and repair are typically free at authorized Volvo dealerships. For older vehicles, you’ll want to start with some basic checks:
- Look for additional warning lights or symptoms
- Check battery voltages if you have a multimeter
- Note how long the warning has been appearing
VCM Location Varies by Model
If you’re considering a DIY approach, you’ll need to know where to find the VCM:
- XC90 and XC60: Typically behind the D-pillar trim panels
- XC40: In the trunk area beneath removable floor panels
Accessing these modules requires specific tools including 8mm and 10mm sockets, plastic panel removal tools, and small screwdrivers.
Consider Professional Diagnostics
For accurate diagnosis, Volvo dealerships use specialized VIDA diagnostic equipment to evaluate the VCM system. These diagnostics identify specific fault codes, battery voltage readings, and communication errors between modules.
Professional diagnosis typically takes 30-60 minutes and provides detailed repair estimates. Even if you plan to handle repairs yourself, professional diagnosis ensures you’re addressing the right problem.
DIY Repair Options: Replacing the VCM Battery
If you’re mechanically inclined and the issue is a failed VCM backup battery, you can save significantly with a DIY approach:
What You’ll Need:
- Genuine Volvo battery (part number 31450445) – approximately $100
- Basic hand tools (panel removal tools, screwdrivers, socket set)
- 30-60 minutes of time
Critical Steps and Precautions:
- Properly disconnect the main vehicle battery first
- Carefully remove interior trim panels to access the VCM module
- Handle the delicate battery connector with extreme care to avoid damaging the VCM
- Ensure correct battery orientation during installation
- Pay special attention to the white plastic connector (don’t confuse it with the surrounding yellow plastic housing)
This DIY repair can save you $600-700 compared to dealership service, but remember you’ll still need a software update afterward.
Professional Repair Services
Many owners prefer professional repair services for convenience and warranty coverage:
What to Expect:
- Complete diagnosis and repair at a Volvo dealership
- Battery replacement and required software updates
- Labor charges typically for 2.5-3 hours
- Total costs between $700-800 including parts and programming
Professional service ensures proper software calibration and system validation following component replacement. This can be especially valuable when multiple systems need attention or when facing complex diagnostic issues.
DIY vs. Professional Repair: Cost Breakdown
Let’s compare the economics of both approaches:
DIY Approach:
- Genuine VCM battery: ~$100
- Software update at dealership: $70-100
- Total cost: $170-200
- Your time: 1-2 hours
Professional Service:
- Parts and labor: $700-800
- Your time: None
- Additional benefits: Warranty on repairs, complete system check
For auxiliary battery replacement, the numbers look similar:
- Genuine Volvo auxiliary battery: $115
- Dealership installation: $319
- DIY savings: ~$200
Preventing Future Issues
Maintain Optimal Battery Health
To extend the life of both your main and auxiliary batteries:
- Drive your vehicle regularly for adequate charging cycles
- Avoid frequent short trips when possible
- Consider a battery maintainer for vehicles in storage
- Pay extra attention in cold weather (low temperatures reduce battery capacity)
Monitor Your System Regularly
Watch for early warning signs before complete system failure:
- Sluggish remote start performance
- Delayed response from smartphone app functions
- Intermittent connectivity issues
Stay current with manufacturer software updates, whether through over-the-air downloads or scheduled maintenance visits.
Model-Specific Considerations
Different Volvo models have unique characteristics that affect diagnosis and repair:
Location Variations
- XC90 and larger SUVs: VCM located behind rear quarter panel trim (more complex disassembly)
- XC40: VCM in trunk areas with simpler panel removal
- SPA platform vehicles: Auxiliary batteries in easily accessible engine bay locations
- Older models: May require more complex access procedures
Year-Specific Issues
- 2017-2018 vehicles: Higher rates of software-related service alerts
- Newer models: Benefit from improved software reliability and over-the-air update capabilities
2017-2018 owners should prioritize software updates over hardware replacement when experiencing service alerts, as premature battery replacement may not resolve underlying programming issues.
Is the Volvo On Call System Worth It?
After your initial four-year complimentary period, you’ll need to decide if renewing for $200/year makes sense for your situation. Consider:
- How often you use the remote features
- The value of vehicle tracking capabilities
- Your need for scheduled maintenance reminders
- Whether the convenience justifies the cost
Remember that even without an active subscription, critical safety features like SOS emergency calls remain functional.
Looking Ahead: System Evolution
Volvo continues refining their On Call system with:
- Enhanced battery management software
- Improved hardware designs
- More robust wireless communication technologies
- Better power management systems
These improvements suggest reduced maintenance requirements for future model years, though periodic battery replacement will remain necessary due to the system’s fundamental design.
The “Volvo On Call Service Required” message, while concerning, typically indicates manageable maintenance issues rather than serious system failures. Understanding the causes and available repair options empowers you to make informed decisions about how to address this common Volvo warning.
