I'm putting this guide together since I couldn't find a definitive guide on how to put together a new key for my MKIV Golf GTI and whether it would work at all. I assume it's the same process with all MKIV's as they use the same immo unit and this guide MAY be applicable to other generations as well.
Firstly you'll want to grab an OBDII to USB cable and Vag-Tacho. I bought this cable:
NEW Tacho VAG 3.01 Opel Immo Airbag Scanner Reader Fast | eBay
If this link dies, just do a search for 'vag tacho' on ebay.
Next you'll want to get a transponder, I picked one up from user 'automobilelocksmith' on ebay:
Transponder Chip ID48 for Volkswagen Remote Key | eBay
The transponder from these guys definitely work but be warned that others have bought transponders elsewhere only to have it not work. I recommend these guys, but if you can grab your hands on a chip for free then go for it and let us know how it goes!
You'll also need to get a key blank, either in the fob style or valet style. I picked up a valet style key from my local locksmith who cut it as well for $60. It's preferable to get one that can house the transponder inside unlike mine.
Now for the fun!
Plug in your cable to your laptop - I used winxp via bootcamp on my macbook.
Install the driver that comes with the disc, or alternatively download VCDS 10.6 (you can download this for free, it just won't work with your interface cable). At the end it will ask you if you want to install the USB driver, hit yes.
Fire up Vag Tacho, plug in the OBDII end into your car and if all works well, the Vag Tacho program should say something along the lines of "K-Line connected..." in the title bar.
- Select 'VDO NEW' for your ecu under the 'Select ECU' menu option at the top of the screen.
- Hit 'Connect to Selected ECU'
- Get the key code
- Hit program new keys
Now I screwed up a little in this next step rendering my old key and new key temporarily useless. If you make the same mistake as me don't worry, it'll still work.
- Flip your old working key so that the car is on but not running (is this aux or accessories? not a big deal...)
- Bash in your key code that you retrieved earlier.
- Leave the channel on the default 21
- Enter the number of keys you wish to program. You'll want all your old keys as well.
- I chose to delete old keys as i only received one with the car when I purchased it second hand. If you have existing keys ignore this step.
- Hit okay and once Vag Tacho is done with the key, it'll prompt you to disconnect and remove the key. Hit the disconnect button in Vag Tacho and don't just pull the key out. This is where I made my mistake.
- Insert any subsequent keys and leave it on until the immobiliser indicator on your dash turns off.
- VOILA! New keys for a fraction of the cost.
FYI: All up this cost me $60 for the cut blank key, ~$15 for Vag Tacho and the cable and ~$40 for three ID48 chips incl. postage. For each key you're looking at under $80, which is about a 1/6th if you got it from a dealer.
Good luck, and if you have any questions please feel free to ask below. Also if anyone would like me to help them program a new key and you're willing to head out to Penrith NSW, feel free to PM me and i'll see if i can help you out (at your own risk).
Volkswagen Fan
Originally Posted by Cookie28
hey guys im just about to order the parts for this but my key has a large green chip inside of it and i cant find anything like it for sale on any of the sites listed above... is it one of the transponder chips but just a different style?? thanks in advance guys
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