D3Audi

I only have one key, and it will cost $500+ to get another made through Audi. The only reason I would want another made would be to unlock the car if my key got locked inside. If I had a switchblade key cut to the specs of my current key. Would I be able to walk up to the door, insert in lock, and unlock. Then proceed and start car with it? Or would I need the key reprogrammed? I understand keyless entry and push button start wouldn't work. But is there anything preventing just a key starting the car? If it is possible, where would I go to get a key cut for that key, since it's an odd style key.

Thanks

iconoclast

the key blade overrides.

you can purchase a key like the ones below as spares. the q7 came with them from the factory.

D3Audi

Thanks for that info! i think that's what I will do.

sethroid

FWIW, I paid $170 last year for a replacement remote key and another $80 to program it. All done at the dealer.

chingwodapigu

On other vehicles like my LX470, if you lose all the master keys, you will need to replace the entire lock ECU to get the vehicle working. Anyone confirm that is the case for Audi as well? If it were me, I would make sure I had 2 working master keys, and not just one that can get me into the car, because it will cost thousands if you lose the one master key you have remaining.

norwestie

I don't think you can lock the car with the smart key inside.

chingwodapigu

Yes you CAN lock with the key inside. I had my key in my jacket pocket, tossed it into the car, closed the door, and heard a beep. Doors locked and I'm locked out. Fortunately I was with my friend who drove me home to get my other key to unlock the car.

superswiss

You can't start the engine without the key being programmed to your car. Each key has a chip inside, even those spare keys posted above. The ignition is disabled until the ECU recognizes the chip of a programmed key and only then will the engine turn over. I believe you can unlock/lock the car with a properly cut mechanical key, but I'm not sure if the alarm disarms unless it recognizes the key.

TDI_smurf

Is the battery in these keys pretty easy to replace?

chingwodapigu

Battery in the key is easy to replace. I believe it's a Cr2032.

Confirmed that fortunately Audi's lock system is not like the other systems, so even if you lose all your master keys, you won't need to replace the lock ecu to get your car working again. You'll just need to buy another key and have it programmed into the car.