Key programming

[brantb]

Is there a way to program additional keys when you only have a single key. Bought the car with only one key, and would like to have a backup. I would prefer not to go to a dealer if that is an option. Also, what is a good source for new keys? I know that some keys can only be programmed once now, and i dont want to waste money on a key that wont work.

TIA

[daytona rs7]

dealer only for both programming and ordering. I think they come coded by VIN number when ordering.

[MVR 155]

Just about positive that it's dealer only for the key and programming as stated above.

[V10Jon]

Correct. They come preprogrammed from Germany per your VIN

Edit: Pro Tip... my car also came with 1 key. Be sure to check in your MMI how many keys are actually programmed to the car. Mine had 3 with only 1 physical key available. The dealer wiped out the extra keys when they got me a 2nd key also.

[tuscani66]

As most stated, dealer only coding, the cost isn't too high if you can pocket it... about $500 all in all USD.

Also as V10 stated, the dealer will require you to bring all keys for the Audi, in your case only 1, because by default they will erase all keys programmed to the car and start over with your existing one and however many more you purchase.

Cost of key, cut, and 1 hour labor is what you should expect in terms of cost. If you can find a virgin key on the internet, and you dont want the laser cut portion of it, they will still program the key for key-less function of course then you can get it laser cut locally - I speak out of experience:
1. I found a virgin key on eBay for $100 shipped
2. Took it to my Audi, after some persuasion , they programmed it to my car successfully (mind you if you bring a virgin key, better do some research on the source or you could just be losing money) for $130
3. Found a local key cut that will do laser and they cut my key for $50
4. Total investment = $280
5. FYI, if I went solely through the dealer it was $500 (BNIB key ordered cut in Germany, shipped, programmed at Dealer, etc).

[brantb]

Correct. They come preprogrammed from Germany per your VIN

Edit: Pro Tip... my car also came with 1 key. Be sure to check in your MMI how many keys are actually programmed to the car. Mine had 3 with only 1 physical key available. The dealer wiped out the extra keys when they got me a 2nd key also.

Same here. Checked the car and it says three are programmed. The PO home address was still programmed in the nav. Thinking about mailing a letter asking if they have or found the others, but that might creep them out.

[vrod]

They don’t come preprogrammed, not as far as I know. They have to be matched directly to your immobilizer in the car. This is not a dealers-only thing, anyone with ODIS and a ODIS Online Subscription can do this. A friend of mine does this and he’s not a dealership as such.