The Ultimate Guide To Using A Volkswagen Key

Volkswagen key fobs are designed to provide maximum security, in line with the high engineering standards of the Volkswagen brand. If you lose your Volkswagen key, you can get a replacement by ordering one from a local dealership or an online retailer. To do this, you will need to provide proof of ownership of the vehicle, such as your title or registration, as well as the vehicle identification number (VIN). The cost of a new Volkswagen key can range from $50 to $200. If your key fob is not working, you can try replacing the battery or resyncing your fob to the vehicle. If you have a dead key fob, you can use the emergency key to unlock your car and start the engine.

How to get a replacement Volkswagen key

If you need a replacement Volkswagen key, you must visit your local authorised Volkswagen dealership in person. You will need to provide the following documentation: an original copy of a valid vehicle registration or title, and a vehicle owner's driver's license, passport, or identity card. You will also need to pre-pay for the key.

An authorised representative can pick up the key on your behalf, but they will need to bring the same documentation, as well as a signed and dated letter of authorisation from the owner of the vehicle. They must also bring the vehicle into the dealership, as the key has to be synchronised to the car and checked for proper operation by a qualified technician.

You can find replacement VW keys online, but only authorised Volkswagen dealerships can order and program a key.

Using the VW emergency key to unlock your car

If your Volkswagen key fob is not working, it may be due to a dead battery. In this case, you can use the emergency key to unlock your car. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do this:

Locating the Emergency Key

• If you own a Volkswagen CC or Touareg model, your key fob should have an emergency key inside.
• Find the button on the side of your key fob and press it.
• A small key loop should appear at the top of the fob.
• Grab and pull on this loop to remove the emergency key.

Unlocking Your Car Door

• Once you have the emergency key, you can use it to unlock the door.
• If your Volkswagen model has a lock cylinder cap, you will need to remove it to access the lock.
• The lock cylinder cap is usually located next to the door handle on the driver's side door.
• Use your key to pop off the cap by inserting it into the small notch or box-shaped opening at the bottom of the cap. Gently pull the key towards you to remove the cap.
• With the lock cylinder exposed, insert your key to unlock the door.

Starting Your Volkswagen

• If your Volkswagen has a push-start system and your key fob is not working due to a low battery, you can still start your car.
• Hold your key fob against the steering column, which is located in the middle of your vehicle where you shift gears.
• While holding the key fob in place, press the start button next to your shift knob.
• For CC and Touareg models, you will need to insert the entire key fob into the ignition slot to start the car.

Remember to replace your key fob battery as soon as possible. Most VW key fobs use a CR2032 replacement battery, which can be found at many retailers or online.

How to start a car without a key fob

If you need to start your Volkswagen without a key fob, there are several methods you can try in case of an emergency. However, it's important to note that some of these methods may cause harm to your car or require substantial automotive knowledge. It's always best to seek the help of a professional when dealing with car problems.

One method is to use the screwdriver-hammer technique. This involves using a screwdriver and hammer to disable the lock pins on the ignition lock cylinder. Simply insert the screwdriver into where the key should go until it's deep enough to penetrate the inner flaps inside the cylinder. Then, try to turn the ignition. But be careful, as this method will damage the key mechanism and require a replacement.

Another method is hotwiring the engine, which is a popular hack that works on older vehicles. It involves removing the plastic cover under the steering wheel and cutting the battery and power wires before twisting and connecting them. However, hotwiring can be complicated and technical, and it may take several minutes to bypass the ignition lock and get the vehicle running.

If your Volkswagen has a push-start button instead of a traditional ignition key hole, there may be a secret switch located in the steering column. This switch usually has a plastic lid, and you can remove the cover to reveal a key fob-like interface where you can use the screwdriver and hammer method to kickstart the ignition.

Additionally, some vehicles can be accessed through a mobile app, which can be handy if your key fob is lost or disabled. However, this requires prior setup and a PIN for enhanced security.

Finally, if your car has a backup system, there may be a "switch" or plastic cap covering the mechanical key slot somewhere around the steering column. Simply turn this switch to reveal the key slot and start the car.

VW key fob tricks for pre-2006 models

Resetting your VW key fob with one key

If either the remote battery or your car’s battery goes flat, your key fob’s remote lock/unlock function may stop working. You can easily reprogram a VW key fob by following the steps below. This process works with only one VW key fob and is suitable for models up to the 2016 model year.

• Manually unlock your VW vehicle using the master key and step inside.
• Insert the physical key into the ignition, and turn the key to position two (the final position before the engine-starting position).
• Lock your VW vehicle using the lock/unlock switch on the inside of your door.
• Press and hold the lock button with your VW Key fob still in the ignition.
• When a red light begins to blink on your VW key fob, the process is complete and should restore your remote VW key fob functions.

Resetting your VW key fob after changing the battery

VW key fob programming instructions vary depending on your vehicle’s model and year. The method below may work for most pre-2006 model year VW vehicles:

• Insert your VW key fob into your ignition.
• Turn the key to position one without turning on the engine.
• Use your second VW key fob to lock your driver’s side door and leave the key fob in the lock.
• Close all vehicle doors.
• Leave the first key in the ignition and press the “unlock” button until your vehicle’s horn honks.

The following method may work for most pre-2016 model-year vehicles:

• Insert your VW key fob into your ignition.
• Turn the key to position two without turning on the engine.
• Close all vehicle doors.
• Press the “lock” button on the inside of your driver’s side door.
• Leave your VW key fob in the ignition and press and hold the “lock” button until a red light blinks on your key fob.

Changing your VW key fob battery

You can quickly and easily replace the battery in your VW key fob without expert assistance. Here are the steps:

• Eject the emergency key by pushing the button on your VW key fob.
• Get a good grip on the key fob, then locate the seam between the base and the lid.
• Use your fingers to create a space between those two pieces, then pry them apart with a screwdriver.
• Take out the old battery and insert a new one, ensuring the positive side faces downward.
• Put the VW key fob case back together, ensuring everything fits as tightly as before.

How to program a VW key fob with a push-button start

Volkswagen key fobs are designed to provide maximum security, in line with the high engineering standards of the Volkswagen brand. The VW push-button start is one of the most exciting additions to the Volkswagen vehicle profile. Pairing your key fob with your car will allow you to take control of your vehicle with ease.

To program a VW key fob with a push-button start, follow these steps:

• Get into the driver's seat and close the door behind you.
• Have one hand on the fob and the other on the vehicle's start button.
• Press the start button 15 times in quick succession, with no more than two seconds between each attempt. Keep your foot off the brake while doing this; you are not trying to start the engine.
• After the 15th button press, push the lock button on your fob.

If the pairing process is successful, the car doors will lock, and the fob will be fully functional. If it is unsuccessful, repeat the process again, as the timing can be a bit finicky and difficult to get right on the first attempt.

Please note that Volkswagen key fobs (typically from after the 2016 model year) are not interchangeable and must be ordered for your specific vehicle. They undergo a pre-programming process before shipping and then must be programmed to your vehicle by technicians with a proprietary process.

If you are still having issues with your VW key fob, it may be a good idea to check the battery. You can open the fob with a small flat screwdriver and check if the battery needs to be replaced.

Frequently asked questions