Immobilizer, troubleshooting procedure: Malfunction

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 27 other vehicles, including the 2002 Volkswagen Cabrio, 2001 Volkswagen Cabrio, 2000 Volkswagen Cabrio, 1999 Volkswagen Jetta, and 1999 Volkswagen Golf. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Engine does not start

When attempting to start engine, engine starts and stalls after approx. 1 second.

Connect Scan Tool (ST) VAG 1551 or VAS 5051 and initiate On Board Diagnostic (OBD).
Select Engine Control Module (ECM) with address word 01.
Interrogate DTC memory (function 02).

Key matching - malfunction or damaged

DTC 01179 "Key programming malfunction" stored in Immobilizer Control Module DTC memory.

Select ICM with address word 25.

Indicated on display:

Fig 1: Identifying VAG 1551 Scan Tool Display (Cabrio Up To May 1999 - Malfunction)

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA, INC.

Compare 14-digit identification number shown in display, with identification number on key fob.

NOTE: If the two identification numbers are not the same, establish secret number corresponding to the identification number in display via the importer.

Match all keys after entering correct secret number. See IGNITION KEYS, MATCHING (ADAPTATION) .