Getting a new car, especially for a young driver, is an exciting time. However, it can quickly become frustrating when faced with unexpected issues, like key fob problems. If you’re experiencing difficulties programming or resyncing your 2008 Audi A4 Key Fob, you’re not alone. Many Audi owners encounter similar challenges, especially after battery replacements or attempting to use aftermarket key fobs.
One Audi A4 owner recently shared their experience trying to get their daughter’s 2007 (similar to 2008 model) A4 key fob working. They had replaced the key fob shell and even obtained a new complete key fob, but ran into roadblocks when attempting to reprogram them. Let’s delve into the common issues and potential solutions for a 2008 Audi A4 key fob.
Decoding the Key Fob Frustration
The owner’s situation is a familiar one:
- Damaged Key Fob: The original key fob was in poor condition, prompting a shell replacement.
- Battery Replacement: A new battery was installed during the shell swap, a common step that sometimes leads to key fob desynchronization.
- New Key Fob Purchase: A new, complete key fob was acquired, intending to have a spare.
- Reprogramming Attempts: Various online forum methods were tried to resync the original fob after the shell and battery replacement.
- VCDS (VAG-COM Diagnostic System) Use: Attempts were made to use VCDS, a diagnostic tool for VW/Audi group vehicles, for programming, but instructions found online were not accurate or helpful.
Despite these efforts, neither the original key fob (after shell/battery replacement) nor the new key fob would function correctly with the 2008 Audi A4. The owner suspected immobilizer programming might be needed for the new key, but even basic lock/unlock functions were not working.
Understanding Key Fob Synchronization and Immobilizer
It’s important to distinguish between two key aspects of key fob functionality:
- Remote Locking/Unlocking (Synchronization): This function allows you to lock and unlock your doors, and sometimes the trunk, remotely using the buttons on your key fob. Often, resynchronization can be done at home using specific procedures.
- Immobilizer (Component Protection): This is a security feature that prevents the car from starting without the correct key. Programming the immobilizer usually requires specialized tools and knowledge to communicate with the car’s computer system.
For the 2008 Audi A4, and similar models, simply replacing the battery should not require immobilizer reprogramming for the original key. However, it can sometimes cause the remote locking/unlocking function to lose synchronization with the car. A new, unprogrammed key fob will definitely require immobilizer programming to start the car and may also need synchronization for remote functions.
Diagnosing the 2008 Audi A4 Key Fob Issue
To better understand the problem, the Audi owner provided a VCDS scan log. This diagnostic data can reveal if there are any underlying issues preventing key fob programming.
Monday,17,October,2022,15:45:10:44749
VCDS -- Windows Based VAG/VAS Emulator Running on Windows 10 x64
VCDS Version: 22.9.0.0 (x64)
Data version: 20220830 DS341.0 www.Ross-Tech.com
VIN: WAUDF78E37A095535
License Plate: TUV9797
Mileage: 186710km-116016mi Repair Order: Lilly
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Chassis Type: 8E (8E - Audi A4/S4/RS4 B6/B7 (2001 > 2008))
Scan: 01 02 03 08 09 0F 11 15 16 17 18 25 36 37 45 46 55 56 57 65 67 69 75 76 77
VIN: WAUDF78E37A095535 Mileage: 186710km-116016miles
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Address 01: Engine Labels:. 06F-907-115-AXX.clb
Part No SW: 8E0 910 115 P HW: 8E0 907 115 D
Component: 2.0l R4/4V TFSI 0020
Revision: 5EH13--- Serial number:
Coding: 0104010A190F0120 Shop #: WSC 08213 444 85832
VCID: 2E535942B9B988FDE1-807A
VINID: 9D19545872150C74402451431477ADAD5A
No fault code found.
Readiness: 0110 0101
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Address 02: Auto Trans Labels: 09L-927-760.lbl
Part No SW: 8E1 910 156 K HW: 09L 927 156 B
Component: AG6 09L 2,0TFSI USA 0040
Revision: --H01--- Serial number: 4228086
Coding: 0000002 Shop #: WSC 06325 000 00000
VCID: 2F6D4446BEB381F5EA-807A
No fault code found.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Address 03: ABS Brakes Labels: 8E0-910-517.clb
Part No SW: 8E0 910 517 J HW: 8E0 614 517 BH
Component: ESP8 quattro H06 0140
Revision: 00000000 Serial number: 00000000000000
Coding: 0004528 Shop #: WSC 06325 000 00000
VCID: 2E535942B9B988FDE1-807A
No fault code found.
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Address 08: Auto HVAC Labels: 8E0-820-043.lbl
Part No: 8E0 820 043 BM
Component: A4 Klimaautomat 2833
Coding: 00000 Shop #: WSC 00000
VCID: 6DD19E4E273F33E598-5106
No fault code found.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Address 09: Cent. Elect. Labels: 8E0-907-279-8EC.lbl
Part No: 8E0 907 279 N
Component: int. Lastmodul USA 0907
Coding: 00003 Shop #: WSC 06325
VCID: 3D716E0E37DF636568-4B00
No fault code found.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Address 15: Airbags Labels: 8E0-959-655-94.lbl
Part No SW: 8E0 959 655 H HW: 8E0 959 655 H
Component: Airbag 9.41 H12 3840
Revision: 91H12384 Serial number: 0036N0G0BCF0
Coding: 0032607 Shop #: WSC 06325 000 00000
VCID: 3C77630A7FC56A6D5F-8068
Subsystem 1 - Part No: 8E0 910 339 B
Component: BF-Gewichtsens. 002 0070
Subsystem 2 - Serial number: 3B8GL
Subsystem 3 - Serial number: 0001.01.000000200000000000ÿ†63
Subsystem 4 - Serial number: 000000ÿ†6332DRB403E210249ÿ†63
Subsystem 5 - Serial number: 210249ÿ†6342DRB403D38A1E-ÿ†63
Subsystem 6 - Serial number: 38A1E-ÿ†6352ARB4018BF37D/ÿ†63
Subsystem 7 - Serial number: BF37D/ÿ†6362ARB4018B4118Hÿ†63
Subsystem 8 - Serial number: B4118Hÿ†63729RB401A154C6Mÿ†63
Subsystem 9 - Serial number: 154C6Mÿ†63829RB401A15526Eÿ
Subsystem 10 - Serial number: 15526Eÿ
No fault code found.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Address 16: Steering wheel Labels: 8E0-953-549.lbl
Part No: 8E0 953 549 Q
Component: Lenksáulenmodul 0701
Coding: 02021 Shop #: WSC 06325
VCID: 418912FE4B2707850C-4B00
No fault code found.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Address 17: Instruments Labels: 8E0-920-9xx-8EC.clb
Part No SW: 8E0 920 951 G HW: 8E0 920 951 G
Component: KOMBI+WFS 4 H14 0110
Revision: 0110 Serial number: 00000000000000
Coding: 0023261 Shop #: WSC 40901 444 57392
VCID: 2E535942BAB988FDE1-5140
No fault code found.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Address 25: Immobilizer Labels: 8E0-920-9xx-8EC.clb
Part No SW: 8E0 920 951 G HW: 8E0 920 951 G
Component: KOMBI+WFS 4 H14 0110
Revision: 0110 Serial number: 00000000000000
Coding: 0023261 Shop #: WSC 40901 444 57392
VCID: 2E535942BAB988FDE1-5140
No fault code found.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Address 46: Central Conv. Labels:. 8E0-959-433-MAX.clb
Part No: 8E0 959 433 CG
Component: Komfortgerát T7B 4135
Coding: 11852 Shop #: WSC 06325
VCID: 78FFBF1A587D864D7B-4B00
Subsystem 1 - Part No: 8E1959801G
Component: Tõrsteuer.FS BRM 0706
Subsystem 2 - Part No: 8E1959802G
Component: Tõrsteuer.BF BRM 0706
Subsystem 3 - Part No: 8E0959801E
Component: Tõrsteuer.HL BRM 0606
Subsystem 4 - Part No: 8E0959802E
Component: Tõrsteuer.HR BRM 0606
1 Fault Found:
01134 - Alarm Horn (H12)
49-00 - No Communications
End-------------------------(Elapsed Time: 06:48)--------------------------The VCDS scan shows “No fault code found” in most modules related to key functionality (Engine, Auto Trans, ABS, Immobilizer, Central Conv.). The only fault code is “01134 – Alarm Horn (H12) 49-00 – No Communications” in the Central Convenience module. While this alarm horn issue might be unrelated to the key fob programming, it’s worth noting and could indicate a communication problem within the car’s electrical system.
Potential Solutions for Your 2008 Audi A4 Key Fob
Here’s a breakdown of steps to try and potential solutions:
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Resynchronization Procedure: Although the owner tried forum methods, it’s crucial to ensure the correct procedure for a 2008 Audi A4 is followed. These procedures can vary slightly between models and years. A reliable source for Audi-specific procedures is essential. It’s important to double-check the exact steps for a 2008 Audi A4, as generic procedures may not work.
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VCDS Adaptation for Remote Functions: While online forum instructions may have been inaccurate, VCDS is indeed capable of remote adaptation. Consulting a Ross-Tech VCDS manual or a dedicated Audi forum with experienced VCDS users might provide the correct steps for remote synchronization using VCDS.
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Immobilizer Programming for New Key: The new, complete key fob will require immobilizer programming to start the car. This is beyond simple DIY methods and typically requires a locksmith or Audi dealership with the necessary tools to access the car’s immobilizer system.
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Professional Locksmith or Audi Dealership: If DIY attempts fail, seeking professional help is the most reliable solution. A qualified automotive locksmith specializing in European cars or an Audi dealership will have the expertise and tools to:
- Diagnose any underlying issues preventing key fob programming.
- Resynchronize the original key fob.
- Program the new key fob, including immobilizer and remote functions.
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Check Alarm Horn Fault: While focusing on the key fob, don’t completely disregard the “Alarm Horn No Communications” fault. A communication issue in the Central Convenience module could potentially interfere with key fob functions. Further investigation or professional diagnosis of this fault might be beneficial.
Conclusion: Getting Your 2008 Audi A4 Key Fob Working
Troubleshooting key fob issues on a 2008 Audi A4 can be complex. While simple resynchronization might resolve issues after battery replacement for the original key, programming a new key or dealing with underlying problems often requires professional expertise. Start by verifying the correct resynchronization procedure and exploring VCDS options if available. However, if these steps don’t succeed, a qualified locksmith or Audi dealership is your best bet to get your 2008 Audi A4 key fobs working reliably.
