Start a Volkswagen with a Dead Key Fob

How to Start a Volkswagen with a Dead Key Fob

This page holds all of the emergency start or back-up start procedures needed for Volkswagen vehicles if the battery in the key fob dies or if there are electrical signals interfering with the fob.

Starting Your Volkswagen

• But first, if you are still locked out, click here for help getting inside!
• Second for video help, click here!
• Finally, if you need another manufacturer, click here.

First Keyless Start Models

Volkswagen models that use the Start/Stop button and have a slot in the dashboard, as shown, insert the fob into the dashboard slot and press it to start while depressing the brake pedal as if the fob were the Start/Stop button. The actual Start/Stop ignition button is disabled.

In models that do not feature a slot for the fob, look for the symbol of a key with lines radiating from it, as shown to the right. It will be on the right side of the steering column itself. Many models, such as the Arteon, Atlas, Jetta, Taos, Tiguan, and T-Roc, still use the spot on the column.

The fob needs to be held against the mark while the vehicle is started, so unfortunately, this requires the use both hands.

ID4

In the ID4 EV, the mark, still a key with lines radiating from it, is found to the front area of the center console. Originally, the front area is for storage and has removeable spacers. We found the mark by removing the front spacer (left).

The mark in this position, as well as those that follow, allow the key fob to simply placed on the mark while the car is started.

Golf and Later ID4

The Golf and later versions on the ID4, the back-up spot is moved to cup holders. In the ID4, the storage area was actually converted to cup holders. The mark is found in the first cup holder (closest to the driver) (right).

We have limited access to Volkswagen owner’s manuals, so it is unclear how many models have transitioned to this location, but it is safe to say that the mark will be found in either a cup holder or on the side of the steering column.

Note: If you have made an attempt to start the vehicle without success, there may be residual pressure in the brake system and a new warning light may appear (left) or text message to Step on the Brake. Press the brake pedal very, very hard when trying to start the vehicle again to be sure that the release switch behind the pedal is engaged. Or wait a few minutes and try again.

Click here for video help with VW models and their key fobs.

Models examined include the Atlas, Arteon, Beetle, EOS, e-Golf, Golf, GTI, ID.4, Jetta, Scirocco, Passat, Phaeton, Routan, Taos, Tiguan, Touareg and T-Roc. Model years 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024.

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The information on this website is provided for information sharing purposes only, and should not be used in lieu of an OEM service manual or factory authorized service procedure. We are not in the auto repair business nor do we publish automotive service manuals. Nothing we include on these pages and posts has been reviewed, approved or authorized by any vehicle manufacturer.

Remember that only proper service and repair procedures will ensure the safe and reliable operation of your car. In addition, proper safety procedures and precautions, such as the use of safety goggles, the right tools and the equipment should be followed at all times to eliminate the possibility of personal injury or improper service which could damage the vehicle or compromise its safety.

Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow. And when it comes to the current state of flux in the auto industry, nothing is more true.

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