Is there any way to unlock an RNS-E without having the security code PIN or vehicle VIN?
 

In searching through some of the archives, I came across a reference that mentioned the Dealer could unlock it with "VAS 5051/5051b/5052". What exactly is this, and is this what I need to do?

The dealer can unlock it for you, but...
 

...I know of at least one instance in which someone went to the dealership for them to retrieve the code for a unit bought on eBay only to find out the unit was stolen in Europe.

Interesting. Wonder if they still unlocked it!

I do not think so...
 

...I'll look for the thread

interesting... i bought mine on ebay but it came with a code.
 

I wonder how car install shops handle add-ons in cases where they dont have the PIN

Re: I do not think so...
 

I just started a similar thread. I bought my unit from NAVParts.com and it was (according to the dealership) a european test vehicle. So it wasn't stolen, but it was installed in another Audi. However, I can't find my code and I just replaced my battery a few weeks back and I'm stuck on safe mode. I can't get ahold of anyone at NAVParts.com so I'm stuck with a $1500 brick unless someone has some helpful insight.

I did hear that some shops can re-do the mother board or something computer techie, just not sure I feel safe sending a $1500 unit to someone with cash and hope they mail it back to me.

that sucks...
 

weird that noone at NAVParts is responding.