How To Use Volvo XC90 DVD Player – A Comprehensive Guide

Ever been stuck on a long road trip with restless kids in the back seat? Trust me, I’ve been there. The Volvo XC90’s DVD player can be your saving grace, turning those “Are we there yet?” moments into peaceful cruising time. But first, you need to know how to use it properly.

Want to know the quickest way to get your DVD player up and running? Press the power button on the overhead console, insert your DVD into the slot (label side up), and the system should start playing automatically. If you’re using headphones, ensure they’re charged and paired – your front-seat passengers can still enjoy their music through the car’s speakers.

Table of Contents

Understanding the Volvo XC90 DVD Player Setup

Factory vs. Aftermarket DVD Systems in Volvo XC90

Let’s talk about what you might have in your XC90. The factory-installed system comes standard in most Executive and Excellence trim levels from 2003 onwards. It’s like comparing a custom-tailored suit to one off the rack – both work, but the factory system integrates seamlessly with your car’s features.

I remember installing an aftermarket system in my first XC90 – while it worked fine, it couldn’t match the clean look and functionality of the factory setup. Depending on your model year, factory systems include dual screens mounted on the back of the front headrests or a single overhead screen.

Main Components of the XC90 DVD Entertainment System

The heart of your entertainment system includes:

Crystal-clear LCD screens.
Wireless headphones (usually two pairs).
A remote control that’s probably hiding in your centre console.

The screens are designed to handle Swedish winter temperatures, so they’ll work even when it’s freezing outside!

Your system connects to the car’s main speakers and individual headphone sets. Think of it as having your movie theatre where front-seat passengers can listen to their podcasts while the kids watch their favourite movie in the back.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using the DVD Player

Loading and Playing DVDs

Here’s where people often get stuck (sometimes literally). Insert your DVD gently – don’t force it! The slot will grab the disc when it’s positioned correctly. If you’re getting region errors, your DVD might be from a different part of the world than your player expects.

Having trouble with a stuck disc? Don’t panic! Press and hold the eject button for 5 seconds. Still stuck? There’s usually a tiny emergency eject hole near the slot – use a paperclip (carefully!) to trigger the manual release.

Adjusting Volume and Sound Output

Remember those old TV volume jumps that would wake up the whole house? Volvo thought that through. The XC90’s sound system lets you fine-tune volume levels for different zones. I learned this hard after nearly blasting my sleeping toddler awake with the main speakers!

To switch between headphones and main speakers, press the “MODE” button on your remote until you see “HEADPHONES” or “SPEAKERS” on the screen. Pro tip: if you’re using headphones, the car’s backup sensors will still come through the main speakers – safety first!

If you’re getting no sound, check that sneaky mute button on both the main console and the DVD remote. Also, ensure the headphones haven’t automatically paired with your teenager’s phone (this happens more often than you’d think).

Using the Remote Control Effectively

The remote control is your magic wand for the entire system. Keep it in the centre console – I added a small velcro strip to mine after watching it slide around during sharp turns. Most remotes have glow-in-the-dark buttons, perfect for those nighttime movie sessions.

Got kids who love to push all the buttons? The remote has a lock feature! Hold the “MENU” and “ENTER” buttons simultaneously for 3 seconds. Now, you won’t accidentally skip to the end of Frozen for the hundredth time.

Connecting Additional Devices and Media

USB and Auxiliary Inputs for External Devices

Welcome to the 21st century, where your DVD player can handle more than just DVDs! The USB port usually hides behind a small cover near the centre armrest. I’ve connected everything from an old iPod to my kid’s Nintendo Switch here.

For smartphones and tablets, you’ve got options. Most XC90s from 2016 onwards include HDMI inputs, while older models might need an RCA adapter. Remember – the system won’t charge your device unless it’s a low-power USB device.

Bluetooth and Wireless Streaming Options

You’re in for a treat if your XC90 is a 2015 or newer model. Bluetooth streaming works like a charm, though it took me an embarrassingly long time to figure out you need to enable “video streaming” in the settings menu first.

For older models without built-in Bluetooth, don’t worry! A simple Bluetooth adapter plugged into the AUX port works wonders. I grabbed one for about $20, and it’s been streaming Disney+ perfectly ever since.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Resolving DVD Playback Problems

Seeing a black screen? Before panicking, try this quick fix that’s saved me multiple times: press and hold the power button for 10 seconds to force a restart. Works like a charm 90% of the time!

Remember that DVDs are region-locked for those frustrating “Invalid Region” messages. North American XC90s use Region 1, while European models use Region 2. There’s a limit to how many times you can change regions, so choose wisely.

Checking Fuses and Electrical Connections

Let’s talk about the least fun but most important part – fuses. The DVD system usually runs on fuse 7 or 9 in the rear fuse box. Finding it is like a mini treasure hunt, but I’ve marked mine with a small dot of nail polish for quick identification.

If your system keeps resetting, check these connections first. The fuse box is usually near the left wheel, under the cargo area carpet. Keep a spare 15-amp fuse in your glove box – in the future, you will thank you for this tip.

Dealing with Frozen Screens or Remote Malfunctions

Nothing’s more frustrating than a frozen screen mid-movie. Before heading to the dealer:

Try this simple reset sequence I learned from a Volvo technician: power off the system
Wait 30 seconds (count like my 6-year-old does – dramatically).
Restart.

Works like magic most times!

Lost or broken remote? Been there! You can find replacements online for about $30-40, but get one specifically for your model year. I once bought the wrong one and spent an hour wondering why none of the buttons worked.

Also Read:
How to Reset Maintenance Light Volvo XC90?

Customizing the DVD Player Settings for a Better Experience

Parental Controls and Viewing Restrictions

Remember when your kids somehow found that one inappropriate scene in an otherwise family-friendly movie? The parental control system is your friend here. The default password is usually “1234” (I know, super creative), but please change it!

Setting up restrictions is straightforward: access the main menu, select “Parental Controls,” and choose your rating limits. My recommendation? Set it one rating higher than you think – saves you from having to enter the password for every slightly questionable cartoon.

Adjusting Video and Sound Settings

Here’s a little-known secret: your screen settings should be different for day and night driving. During the daytime, slightly bump the contrast and reduce brightness to fight glare. At night, do the opposite – your passengers’ eyes will thank you.

Try this trick I accidentally discovered for perfect sound balance: adjust the fade to slightly favour the rear speakers when using headphones. This way, front-seat conversations won’t compete with movie sound leakage.

Maintenance Tips for Long-Term Usage

Cleaning the Screens and DVD Tray

Let’s talk cleaning – because those tiny fingerprints somehow appear even when no one’s touched the screen! Use a microfiber cloth slightly dampened with water. Skip the household cleaners; they can damage the screen coating. Trust me, I learned this lesson the expensive way.

Grab a DVD lens cleaner disc every six months or so for the DVD slot. If you notice discs taking longer to load or skipping, it’s probably time for a cleaning. Don’t use compressed air – it can push dust further into the system.

Software Updates and Compatibility Checks

Did you know your DVD system might need updates? If your XC90 is from 2015 or newer, check for updates at your dealer during regular service. Older models rarely need updates, but it’s worth asking if you’re experiencing compatibility issues.

Some cool features, like expanded file format support, are often added with updates. After an update, my system suddenly started playing MKV files – a pleasant surprise for our road trips!

FAQs About Volvo XC90 DVD Players

Can I Use a Blu-ray Disc on My XC90’s DVD Player?

Short answer: Nope. The system only plays standard DVDs and CDs. But here’s a workaround: most streaming devices can connect through the auxiliary input, giving you access to higher-quality content.

What Should I Do if My DVD Player Stops Working Mid-Trip?

First, don’t panic! Try the quick fixes: restart the system, check the fuse, and ensure the disc isn’t damaged. Always keep a few favourite DVDs in the car – they’re great backups when streaming isn’t an option.

Is It Possible to Upgrade the System to a Newer Model?

Yes, but consider this carefully. While aftermarket upgrades are available, they cost between $500 and $ 1500. Sometimes, a good tablet mount and a power bank offer more flexibility for less money.

Final Thoughts

Your Volvo XC90’s DVD player can be more than just an entertainment system – a peacekeeper on long trips, a babysitter during quick errands, and sometimes a lifesaver during unexpected traffic jams. With these tips and tricks, you can handle almost anything your DVD system throws.

Remember, technology isn’t perfect, but patience and know-how go a long way. Keep this guide handy, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different settings to find what works best for your family. Happy watching!