Key questions

[insanitybeard]

Following on from Mirez's excellent key programming article, I have a couple questions-

1) Has anybody used the plastic key to start the engine on a regular basis? My Galaxy only had one key when I got it so I got a couple more cut, being the obsessive person that I am one of the new keys was a plastic key, I got it just so if I lost a key I would still have two keys I could use to programme more (yes I know I could have just had a third standard key cut!). I've no worries about using the plastic key in the door locks or in the ignition to turn it to run position for programming etc, but there is extra resistance when turning the ignition barrel to crank position and I'm worried the plastic key isn't robust enough and it might snap off in the barrel!

2) Can VAG-COM be used for key programming? (I'd be worried if you could because that would mean anybody with a laptop could effectively steal the vehicle if they were able to get inside)

3) How does the programming procedure differ on the Alhambra & Sharan? I see the Ford setup also allows you to clear additional keys if you already have 2 programmed keys for the vehicle, so you can render other keys unusable if you lose them.

[Mirez]

Thanks

1) I'm in the process of doing up a Galaxy at the moment and it only came with the regular and emergency key. I have started it a couple of times using the plastic one but I can't say I felt confident and indeed shared the same concerns! The answer I guess is in the name, emergency key - for occasional use it should do the job but I think in daily use it would snap fairly quickly.

2 and 3) No, the Galaxy can't be programmed using VCDS. The immobiliser module is separate on the Ford where the Sharan and Alhambra have it built into the instrument cluster. The module isn't linked nor talks using the same protocol so VCDS can't communicate with it. The Sharan and Bamma on the other hand can be programmed with VCDS BUT you need a SKC number (Security Key-Code (Sometimes called a secret key)) to do so. To my knowledge the algorithm for the code hasn't been cracked and so obtaining the unique code for the car relies on your relationship with the VW dealer!

[Chrispb]

Yep can confirm the plastic does all the locks and runs OK but again wouldn't like to trust it with regular use.

[insanitybeard]

Thanks guys!

Mark,
        So does that mean with the Sharan and Alhambra you cannot add or erase keys at home using 2 learned keys, it has to be taken to a dealer (unless you have the security code) to be done?

Also, if you were to replace the Galaxy cluster with a Sharan one (as you have done), does that mean you ditch the separate immobiliser module? And does it mean you had to programme all of your keys again?

[Mirez]

I stand to be corrected on this one as I've not played with the VAG style of coding but no, I believe the only way to add keys to them is to use VCDS with the SKC code.

With regards the cluster, whilst the immobiliser is built into it on the VAG system it is essentially separate. If you swap the instrument cluster for a Sharan one then you gain the VAG immobiliser controller but nothing else. The Ford system is still fully intact and since the cluster isn't wired to handle the immobiliser system it has, and can have, no effect. You don't need to code any keys either

[insanitybeard]

Thanks Mark,
                     Just curious- not that I'm planning on messing around with my setup! Interesting that Ford chose to allow the owner to programme/ clear keys at home but VW/ Seat didn't, more secure that way but not so cheap and convenient for the owner!

[Mirez]

I think its more curious that they used VW's key, lock and remote frequency/coding but decided to implement there own immobiliser system. I can only assume that either VW didnt want Ford knowing how the system worked or Ford thought the VW system was crap. Love to know which!!

[SilverBeast]

If you have working keys (ie coded to the immobiliser) the instructions are in the car handbook to add more to the system.  I haven't tried it though.
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OK.  So I didn't read the post properly again before diving in!