Can I program a second Key/FOB with VCDS - 2016 Golf Sportwagen MK7

[CR125Honda]

I have an older HEX-USB interface purchased here from Ross Tech and am planning on trading it in for the newer HEX-V2 Enthusiast.

We are about to purchase a 2016 Golf Sportwagen MK7 that is coming with only one Key/FOB. No valet key either.
Will I need to go to a local VW dealer (or locksmith) or can I purchase the Key/FOB and do the coding myself with VCDS and the Hex-V2?
If this is an option, a reputable source (link) to purchase the key from would be appreciated..

Currently have a MK6 Jetta that needs the newer interface to access it's features.

This was easy to do with my older B5.5 Passats and the HEX-USB cable but I'm not sure of the procedure required for the newer vehicles and or versions of Immobi.
The Hex-USB worked great to help solve may issues on our 3ea. B5, B5.5's and a 98 Jetta. Now, time to upgrade.

Uwe?

 

[2kaa52]

Not possible with VCDS

 

[CR125Honda]

Not possible with VCDS

Thanks 2Kaa52.. So dealer only (or qualified locksmith) to get an additional key?

 

[stefdds]

yes

 

[CR125Honda]

yes

Thanks stefdds.. Going down a big rabbit hole now. I try to avoid dealerships as much as possible. If I can buy the tool for the same cost, or even a bit more, it's worth it for me to have that tool. Reading up one the subject now. I've found a tool from a company called Launch that is available to the consumer. Trying to figure out the total cost as a key programming tool and one of their scanners is required. Might not be cost effect unless I find another VW owner or two that needs an extra key also. Still don't know what VW would charge for an extra key. I'll call my local shop tomorrow. Online estimates I've seen range from $180 to $500 for an extra key. I've also learned that this 2016 Golf wagon has immobi 5 or 5th gen.

 

[2kaa52]

Thanks 2Kaa52.. So dealer only (or qualified locksmith) to get an additional key?

Yes, or someone with a Special Tool for programming.

 

[stefdds]

I try to avoid dealerships as much as possible. If I can buy the tool for the same cost, or even a bit more, it's worth it for me to have that tool.

I understand completely, as many of us are the same way. However, I think you are used to your older platform(s) and your 2016 is considerably different and unless you really , really want to get into the procedure you need to be careful that you don't "brick" your modules!

Considering you are only going to do this a few times in the course of many years (I think), it may not be worth the time and cost as these systems are getting more and More secure. And frankly, unless you are a licensed vendor of that trade, you may not be able to gain access to the necessary set-up. (at least not legally)
IMO , for a few hundred dollars, it isn't worth it.

 

[CR125Honda]

I understand completely, as many of us are the same way. However, I think you are used to your older platform(s) and your 2016 is considerably different and unless you really , really want to get into the procedure you need to be careful that you don't "brick" your modules!

Considering you are only going to do this a few times in the course of many years (I think), it may not be worth the time and cost as these systems are getting more and More secure. And frankly, unless you are a licensed vendor of that trade, you may not be able to gain access to the necessary set-up. (at least not legally)
IMO , for a few hundred dollars, it isn't worth it.

Tks for the advice Stefdds,

Just got off the phone with local dealer. $212 to program, $267 for the key. So close to $500 w/tax. This is for a second or extra key.
We haven't taken ownership on the vehicle yet but have made a down payment. Transfer will take place as soon as current owner receives title (coming in the mail).
Everyone should have a backup key so gambling with only one isn't an option for us.

I am familiar with modules, SKC codes, etc.
VW clearanced out the instrument panels for my B5.5 Passats many moons ago ($50 ea. as I recall). I bought a couple as it was common for the LED's in the MFD to fade, go dim and become unreadable back then.
Purchased a programming tool called VAG401 to successfully install and transfer them into two our our vehicles.

Definitely going to weigh to pluses and minuses before deciding which way to go on this.

 

[Uwe]

Everyone should have a backup key

-Uwe-

 

[CR125Honda]

-Uwe-

So true on the backup key.. We are just buying this car and it's only coming with one key. Almost inevitable that one key will be misplaced or lost some time while we own it. Doing my best to school myself on feasible options other than the than dealer route.

 

[stefdds]

This may interest you:
@1:41

 

[CR125Honda]

This may interest you:
@1:41

Thank you very much stefdds. Excellent tip! Much appreciated.
Definitely step in the right direction.
I called Car Keys Express directly after watching the video.
Received a quote of $267 for one key and $387 if we wanted to get an additional spare.
Rep I spoke with said they do have tech in our area (Spartanburg) and I'd just need to call and make an appointment to meet with him.
As much as I enjoy getting new cool tools (have been researching/shopping Launch x431, Autel IM508S, etc.), this is probably the sensible way to go.

 

[CR125Honda]

Thank you very much stefdds. Excellent tip! Much appreciated.

This may interest you:
@1:41

Definitely step in the right direction.
I called Car Keys Express directly after watching the video.
Received a quote of $267 for one key and $387 if we wanted to get an additional spare.
Rep I spoke with said they do have tech in our area (Spartanburg) and I'd just need to call and make an appointment to meet with him.
As much as I enjoy getting new cool tools (have been researching/shopping Launch x431, Autel IM508S, etc.), this is probably the sensible way to go.

So I called a guy out from Car Keys Express. I will give the guy an E for effort. Spent 30 minutes or so on the first attempt, which failed. Said he need to update his programmer (I looked and it was the Autel 508). Came back two days later but could not complete the job. He cut a key, which will unlock the door but couldn't get the chip to program. We bought the key from him just to have the correctly cut blade. I went to our local Car Key in a strip mall. He inserted the key we bought from the last guy in his reader and determined the chip to be MQ instead of MQB. He also said they would need a local VW dealer to be involved if they made a key for me. Got back home and called another locksmith who said he could get it dome with his equipment as long as I or he purchased an OEM key. Wow. Exhausting but it comes down to principle now. I refuse to pay $500 for one key.