VCDS Save Coding: How to Match Remote Keys to Your VW or Audi

Matching a new key fob to your Volkswagen or Audi vehicle can be a confusing process. This guide provides a step-by-step walkthrough on how to use VCDS (Vag-Com Diagnostic System) to save coding for new remote keys, ensuring seamless integration with your car’s central locking system. This process utilizes adaptation channels within VCDS to program the vehicle to recognize new remotes.

Matching Remote Keys with VCDS: Two Primary Methods

There are two main methods for matching radio-frequency remote controls to VW and Audi vehicles using VCDS. The correct procedure depends on your specific vehicle model. Always consult the Ross-Tech Wiki for model-specific instructions.

Method 1: Adaptation Channel Coding

This method utilizes adaptation channels within the Central Locking or Central Convenience controller.

1. Gather Your Tools and Keys: Assemble all remotes you intend to program, including existing ones. You’ll also need a working key to turn the ignition ON.

2. Access Central Locking/Convenience Controller: Connect your VCDS interface and launch the software. Navigate to:

   • [Select]
   • [46 - Cent. Conv.] or [35 - Cent. Locking] (Refer to the Ross-Tech Wiki for your specific model).

3. Enter Adaptation Mode:

   • [Adaptation - 10]

4. Select Channel 01 (or 21): Input channel 01 or 21 in the “Channel Number” field. Channel 21 is sometimes used in certain Audi models. Consult the Ross-Tech Wiki to confirm the correct channel for your vehicle.

   • [Read] – This displays the number of currently stored remotes.

5. Input New Value: Enter the total number of keys you want to program (including existing keys) in the “New Value” field. The maximum number of keys is usually four.

   • [Test] – Confirm the correct number appears in the “Test Value” field.
   • [Save] – This is the crucial Vcds Save Coding step to store the new remote information.

6. Program Each Remote: After saving, press and hold the UNLOCK button on each remote for at least one second. Do this for each key, one at a time. You typically have a 15-second window to program all remotes. The car may acknowledge each successful programming with flashing lights or a horn beep.

Method 2: Manual Matching Using Measuring Blocks

If Method 1 fails, this alternative utilizes Measuring Blocks.

1. Ignition ON: Insert a working key into the ignition and turn it to the ON position (do not start the engine).

2. Access Measuring Blocks: In VCDS, navigate to:

   • [Select]
   • [46 - Cent. Conv.] or [35 - Cent. Locking]
   • [Meas. Blocks - 08]

3. Enter Group 003 (or 007): Input group 003 or 007 (check Ross-Tech Wiki for your specific model).

   • [Go!] – Field 2 displays the number of matched remotes and their memory positions.

4. Lock the Car: Lock the vehicle from the outside using the new, unmatched key in the driver-side door lock.

5. Press Unlock Repeatedly: Within 5 seconds, press the UNLOCK button on the new key enough times to reach the next available memory position. For example, if Field 2 displays 0001, press the UNLOCK button twice to program the new key to position 2.

6. Unlock and Cycle Ignition: Wait 5 seconds, unlock the door with the new key, turn the ignition OFF, and remove the key.

7. Test Functionality: Test the new key by locking and unlocking the vehicle.

8. Verify Matching: Repeat steps 1-2 and verify that Field 2 now reflects the newly matched key.

Clearing Existing Remote Coding

To erase existing remote coding, follow these steps:

1. Access Adaptation: Navigate to [46 - Cent. Conv.] or [35 - Cent. Locking] and then [Adaptation - 10].

2. Select Channel 00: Enter channel 00.

   • [Read]
   • [Save] – Confirm by clicking [Yes] when prompted. This will clear all learned remotes. You’ll need to reprogram all keys using one of the methods described above.

Important Considerations

• Consult Ross-Tech Wiki: Always refer to the Ross-Tech Wiki for vehicle-specific instructions before attempting any coding changes.
• Free Memory Positions: Ensure new keys are programmed into empty memory slots to avoid overwriting existing keys.
• Professional Assistance: If you’re uncomfortable performing these procedures yourself, consult a qualified automotive technician with VCDS experience. Incorrect coding can lead to malfunctions.