VW & Audi high security keys.
VW began using High Security keys in some cars in 1998, with the majority of their vehicles equipped by 2000. The car is much more difficult to steal — and keys are much more difficult to fit.
How transponders work
The car emits a burst of RF energy, which powers a chip inside the key head. The chip replies with a code; the car only starts when the reply matches. The starter may turn without the right key, but the engine will not run.
SKC programming
Programming requires a VAG1551 (or equivalent) and the 4- or 7-digit Secret Key Code. For 7-digit codes we also need the dealer number assigned by Volkswagen and the date the code was generated.
Bring every key
Any key not present at programming will not be useable upon completion. Bring all keys — including valets — that you want to keep working.
The full programming procedure.
The VW security system requires a transponder-equipped keyto start the car. A transponder is a small electronic chip embedded in the head of the key. When the key is turned to the "start" position, the car emits a small burst of radio-frequency energy. This energy powers the key and instructs it to emit a reply to the car. If the code in the reply doesn't match the code asked for, the car will not start, even though the ignition will turn and the starter operates.
Additional keys can be introduced to the car's computer system. The car was originally delivered with 3 working keys. To add keys to the system, a VAG1551 or equivalent diagnostic device must be used. In addition, we must have the 4- or 7-digit Secret Key Code (SKC)to program the car. If you do not have that code (it was on the black plastic tag on one of the keys), we must interrogate the car's computer system for the immobilizer serial number. Supplying that, along with the VIN, the dealer is then asked to provide us with the code.
If they supply the 4-digit code, we proceed. If they supply the 7-digit code, we also need their dealer number as assigned by Volkswagen, and we must note the date the 7-digit code was generated. We then take this information, along with an importer code, and enter it into our diagnostic computer. In the case of a VW shop, the code is only good on the day of issuance — in our case, we can re-use it as long as we know the issuance date. Many dealers are reluctant to supply these codes, wanting to charge dealer prices for key programming.
Once we have the necessary code, we hook up the diagnostic port and begin programming. Please note that any keys not present at this time will not be useable upon completion. Make sure to supply all keys you want to work, including valet keys. Programming only takes a few minutes, and we'll be glad to give you any trouble codes stored at the time of programming.
Should you be located in an area where your vehicle is not available for Steve's technicians to program your car, you can still realize substantial savings by allowing Steve's Lock Shoppe to create the key — you can instruct the dealer to program it at your next service visit.
For VW high-security inquiries, email vwcarlocks@hotmail.com or call (936) 435-1324.
VW & Audi high-security questions.
How does a VW transponder key work?+
A small electronic chip is embedded in the head of the key. When you turn the key to start, the car emits a burst of radio-frequency energy that powers the key and asks for a reply. If the reply code doesn't match, the car won't start — even though the ignition turns and the starter operates.
Can additional keys be added?+
Yes. The car was originally delivered with three working keys. To add keys, a VAG1551 or equivalent diagnostic device is required, plus the 4- or 7-digit Secret Key Code (SKC). All keys you want to keep working — including valet keys — must be present at programming, since any key not present will be rendered useless.
What if I don't have the SKC?+
The SKC was on the black plastic tag on one of the keys. If you no longer have it, we interrogate the immobilizer for its serial number and supply that, along with your VIN, to the dealer. They provide a 4- or 7-digit code; for 7-digit codes we also need the dealer number and date of issuance.
I'm out of your travel area.+
You can still realize substantial savings: Steve's cuts the key, and you instruct your dealer to program it at your next service visit.
Ready to program your VW or Audi?
Have your VIN handy. If you have the SKC, we can usually proceed immediately.