How to program an incorrect Volkswagen key 01179?
4 Answers
Remove the cover of the driver's side door handle (some models like the new Jetta do not have a door handle cover, so no need to remove it). After pressing the unlock button on the car key once, stand next to the car and within 1 minute, use the spare key or key head to insert into the lock cylinder to unlock the car. Turn on the ignition with the car key, and the synchronization process is now complete. Reinsert the spare key back into the car key or fold the key head, and reinstall the door handle cover. The remote transmitter and battery are both installed inside the remote key.
I've repaired many Volkswagen vehicles encountering the 01179 key error issue, which is actually the immobilizer system failing to recognize the key. You need to use professional equipment like ODIS or VCDS, plug into the OBD port, and access the immobilizer control unit. First, check the password—it's on the key tag or that small slip of paper in the vehicle manual. Entering it wrong three times will lock the system, making it even more troublesome. When matching a new key, you must have all existing keys placed inside the car; missing even one won't work. Last time when handling this for a client, it failed twice in a row—later, we found out the car wasn't completely turned off. You must switch it to the OFF position and wait until the dashboard is completely dark before proceeding. The whole process is most vulnerable to power loss, so it's best to connect a voltage stabilizer for stability.
Dealing with the 01179 error by yourself can be quite tricky. I encountered this issue when programming a third spare key. I bought a diagnostic cable to connect to my laptop and installed VCDS software. My palms were sweating nervously when accessing the 25-Immobilizer system. The crucial part was entering the PIN code, and I got stuck - checking it at the dealership would cost extra. When setting the number of keys in the matching channel, double-check carefully. Once I entered one less key by mistake, rendering the original keys unusable. For those unfamiliar with the process, I recommend going directly to a professional shop - equipment and labor cost about 400 RMB. As a side note, weak key battery can also trigger false fault reports, so eliminate this factor first.
Last time my buddy's Volkswagen threw a 01179 error code, and after checking the documentation, we realized the immobilizer data needed resynchronization. It requires either OEM or certified diagnostic tools to connect to the gateway computer and use online functions to authenticate with servers in Germany. I tried aftermarket equipment but couldn't proceed due to lack of authorization. The whole process involves three steps: vehicle identity verification, immobilizer data retrieval, and writing new key IDs. Special note: for smart keys, place them in the induction slot; for mechanical keys, turn to ON position and wait for the prompt tone. Nowadays, newer models even require additional fingerprint verification steps, making it more complex.
