2015 VW Remote Key Programming with VCDS

This guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to program a new remote key for a 2015 Volkswagen using VCDS (Vag-Com Diagnostic System). Disclaimer: Ross-Tech and vcdstool.com are not responsible for any damage resulting from these instructions. Use at your own risk. Consult your Factory Repair Manual for specific vehicle information. This process covers radio-frequency remote matching, not Immobilizer components.

Method 1: Using Adaptation Channels

This is the most common method for 2015 VW remote key programming.

1. Gather Your Keys and Tools: Collect all remotes you want to program, including existing ones. You’ll need a working key to turn the ignition ON. Also, have your VCDS interface and laptop ready.

2. Access Central Convenience/Locking Module: Connect VCDS to your vehicle’s OBD-II port and launch the software.

   • Select: 46 - Cent. Conv. or 35 - Cent. Locking (depending on your vehicle). Refer to your VCDS documentation or the Ross-Tech website for specific module information.

3. Enter Adaptation Channel:

   • Go to: Adaptation - 10
   • Enter Channel: 01 (or 21 on some Audi models)
   • Read: This displays the number of currently stored remotes.

4. Program New Remotes:

   • New Value: Enter the total number of keys you want to program (up to 4, including existing keys).
   • Test: Verify the number in Test Value is correct.
   • Save: Confirm the new value.

5. Learn Remotes: Within 15 seconds, press and hold the UNLOCK button on each remote for at least one second, one at a time. The car might acknowledge each successful learning with flashing lights or a horn beep.

Method 2: Using Measuring Blocks (If Adaptation Fails)

If Method 1 doesn’t work, try this alternative procedure:

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:

   • Select: 46 - Cent. Conv. or 35 - Cent. Locking.
   • Go to: Meas. Blocks - 08
   • Enter Group: 003 (or 007 in some vehicles)
   • Go! Field 2 displays the number and memory positions of matched remotes. A “1” indicates a matched remote; a “0” indicates an empty slot.

3. Learn New Remote:

   • Lock the Car: Lock the car from the outside using the new, unmatched key in the driver-side door lock. You might need to hold the key in the unlock position during the next step.
   • Press Unlock: Within 5 seconds, press the UNLOCK button on the new key enough times to reach the next available memory position (e.g., if Field 2 showed “0001,” press the unlock button twice to program to position 2). The car may acknowledge each press.
   • Unlock the Door: Wait 5 seconds, then press the unlock button on the new key to unlock the door.

4. Verify Programming:

   • Turn the ignition OFF and remove the old key.
   • Test the new key by locking and unlocking the car.
   • Insert the new key in the ignition, turn to ON, and recheck Measuring Blocks Group 003. Field 2 should now reflect the newly programmed key.

Clearing Existing Remotes (If Necessary)

If you need to delete all programmed remotes before starting:

1. Access Adaptation:
   • Select: 46 - Cent. Conv. or 35 - Cent. Locking
   • Go to: Adaptation - 10
   • Enter Channel: 00
   • Read then Save the value 0. Confirm when prompted. This will erase all learned remotes.

After clearing, you must program all remotes, including existing ones, using Method 1 or 2. Always program new keys into free memory positions (indicated by a “0” in Group 003, Field 2) to avoid overwriting existing keys.