Replacement key
02-20-2024, 04:10 AM
#1
AudiWorld Super User
Thread Starter
Replacement key
Recently bought a '22 SQ7 that only came with one key (I reached out to the previous owners, who left all of their info in the glovebox, to see if they had it... but no reply).
I found a local indy VAG shop that can get and program a new key for me for $650. This seems to be a good deal compared to the dealer.
Before I go this route, is anyone aware of a significantly cheaper way of getting a second key? I know they're on Ebay but not sure those are reliable. Appreciate any wisdom before I pull the trigger on this!
I found a local indy VAG shop that can get and program a new key for me for $650. This seems to be a good deal compared to the dealer.
Before I go this route, is anyone aware of a significantly cheaper way of getting a second key? I know they're on Ebay but not sure those are reliable. Appreciate any wisdom before I pull the trigger on this!
02-20-2024, 06:17 AM
#2
I am in a similar position. Purchased a 2018 Q7 with only one key. The cost to replace for me is ~$900 CAD through the dealer (so about the same as yours in USD). I have scoured high and low for a cheaper solution, as I don't really NEED the second key, but it would be a nice to have considering Murphy's Law. That said, nobody can do them, and if you buy one of the AliExpress/Ebay keys, nobody will program them for you. I found one guy (non-dealer) that said he can program the keys, but it MUST be purchased through the dealer, and since most of the cost is the key, it doesn't make sense. Everyone else I contacted has has said the same thing.
Apparently most of the 2016+ German cars (Audi/MB) are the same. They use some sort of encryption that aftermarket tools have not yet been designed for, and/or are just cost prohibitive. I find it egregious that Audi charges $450 for the fob, which is likely less than $5 to manufacture....but they also charge $350 for a plastic license plate bracket, so it should be no surprise.
Bottom line, I think there are no current options other than the dealer, or at the very least, purchasing the unicorn key from the dealer parts department.
Apparently most of the 2016+ German cars (Audi/MB) are the same. They use some sort of encryption that aftermarket tools have not yet been designed for, and/or are just cost prohibitive. I find it egregious that Audi charges $450 for the fob, which is likely less than $5 to manufacture....but they also charge $350 for a plastic license plate bracket, so it should be no surprise.
Bottom line, I think there are no current options other than the dealer, or at the very least, purchasing the unicorn key from the dealer parts department.
02-20-2024, 07:10 AM
#3
AudiWorld Super User
you are SOL. dealer or nothing. I have done this with a number of Audi vehicles when I have had remote start installed in them. it sucks but unfortunately there is no loophole currently available. I tried the ebay thing where I brought an identical key with the same P/N to my dealer once for $35 and they wouldn't program it...
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