Having a Volkswagen valet key can be quite convenient, but it comes with limitations. Unlike your primary key fob, a valet key typically won’t open your trunk or glove compartment. If you’re looking to upgrade your access and functionality, especially if you only have a valet key and want to program a new key fob, you might be wondering if it’s even possible. The good news is, yes, you can program a new key fob for your VW even if you only have a valet key.
While normally programming a Volkswagen key fob requires two working keys, there’s a workaround that allows you to do it with just a valet key and a little bit of DIY know-how. This method involves temporarily bypassing the door lock mechanism to initiate the programming sequence.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to programming your VW key fob using only a valet key:
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Lower the Driver’s Side Window: Ensure the driver’s side window is fully rolled down. This is crucial for accessing the door lock mechanism from outside the vehicle.
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Access the Door Lock Mechanism: Locate the plastic cover on the edge of the driver’s side door, near the door handle. Gently pop this cover off to reveal a Torx screw underneath.
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Loosen the Lock Mechanism Screw: Using a Torx screwdriver, carefully loosen the screw that secures the door lock mechanism. Important: Do not remove the screw completely. Back it out just enough so you can slide the lock mechanism outwards.
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Slide Out the Lock Mechanism: Once the screw is sufficiently loosened, you should be able to slide the door lock mechanism out of the door.
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Utilize a Flat Blade Screwdriver: Observe the slot within the door latch assembly where the flat blade end of the lock mechanism normally sits. Take a flat blade screwdriver, similar in size to the blade on the lock mechanism.
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Unlock the Door Manually: Insert the flat blade screwdriver into the slot in the door latch assembly. Use the screwdriver to mimic the action of the lock mechanism and unlock the car door.
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Ignition On with Valet Key: Reach through the open window and insert your valet key into the ignition. Turn the key to the “on” position. Do not start the engine; simply turn the ignition to the point where the car’s electronics are active.
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Initiate Programming Sequence with Screwdriver and New Key Fob: Hold your new, uncut key fob close to the screwdriver that is still inserted in the door latch. Turn the screwdriver to the left (the unlock direction) and hold it in this position for approximately 10 seconds.
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Press Lock Button on New Key Fob: While continuing to hold the screwdriver in the unlock position and keeping the new key fob nearby, press the “lock” button on the new key fob.
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Press Unlock Button on New Key Fob: Immediately after pressing the lock button, press the “unlock” button on the new key fob. Continue holding the screwdriver in the unlock position throughout this step.
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Verify Programming Completion: If the programming is successful, your car should indicate this by blinking its hazard lights or beeping the horn. This confirms that the new key fob has been successfully programmed to your Volkswagen.
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Reassemble the Door Lock: Carefully slide the door lock mechanism back into its place in the door. Tighten the Torx screw to secure it, and then snap the plastic cover back into position.
Now, you should have a fully functional key fob that can unlock your doors and, importantly, open your trunk. Even with a valet key as your starting point, this DIY method provides a cost-effective solution to gain the convenience of a key fob for your Volkswagen. For everyday use, you can simply attach your valet key to your keychain along with your newly programmed key fob, ensuring you have all the access you need.
