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Key fob not working

Posted: Wed Feb 03, 2016 5:34 pm
by HTWB
2009 2.0 TSi
Got home after a short trip recently and discovered that the remote key fob would not lock the door. Had to go through the irritating procedure of levering off the plastic lock cover. (pity the handbook doesn't say it helps to pull the door handle when you're trying to get it off). Tried my spare key to no avail. Checked key batteries - AOK. Consulted handbook re synchronising key. No effect. Locked manually for night.
Googled ' VW key fob not working ' and got pages of solutions. Seemed a very common problem. Complicated multi step procedures etc. Many suggesting an expensive trip to the dealer was necessary. Not good. Noticed one which said disconnect the car battery and wait a few minutes before reconnecting. Next day as I was preparing to visit dealer, fobs still not working,I decided to give the disconnect battery suggestion a go. To my absolute amazement everything was back to normal. :clap:
No idea what caused this problem. Maybe my experience might help someone.

Re: Key fob not working

Posted: Wed Feb 03, 2016 9:52 pm
by Phil
Had the same issue a few months back just as I was selling my GT. There is a procedure to recode the key where you have to put the working key in the ignition, turn the key but don't start it. Lock the doors from the outside with the spare and then press unlock with the button.

I will find you the in depth guide BUT it did not work. VW wanted a stupid amount but I found someone local to me who could help (if your near dartford kent let me know).

I did have to buy a new fob for the key sadly but I explored every avenue prior.

Re: Key fob not working

Posted: Wed Feb 03, 2016 9:53 pm
by daves2369
I noticed when my ignition barrel was going sometimes I could not lock or unlock the car with the keyfob intermittent problem.