How to Open a Volkswagen or Audi with a Dead Key Fob
- First, if you are already inside, click here for help getting started!
- Second, for video help, click here!
- Finally, if you need another manufacturer, click here.
Retrieving the mechanical key
There are three general styles of key fobs in use with Volkswagen and Audi models. With the older style shown to the right, press the chrome button on the back of the key fob (remote control or ‘clicker’) to release the spring-loaded mechanical key, which remains attached to the key fob.
Newer Volkswagen and Audi models use what they called an Advanced Key, shown to the left. The mechanical key is separated 
from the fob (or remote control or ‘clicker’) by pressing the button on the back side of the fob, shown with the arrow, while pulling on the same key ring end.
Audi introduced a third Advanced Key fob style in 2016 that for some reason requires pushing two buttons at the same time. They are on either side of the key ring end, as shown. Push them both while pulling the key ring out to retrieve the mechanical key.
And yet a fourth key fob from Audi has a chrome button on the back, similar to the unit above, but below the chrome end. push the button and pull on the key ring end to remove the mechanical key. We saw it first in the new 2019 Q8.
Getting Inside
On some models, the lock cylinder (keyhole) at the back of the door handle will be visible. If so, simply use the key blade to unlock the door.
If the keyhole at the back of the driver’s door handle is hidden, press the key blade about a half inch straight up in the hole on the underside of the keyhole cover (a). If you are in the dark, you may need to feel for the hole. This action will loosen the cover and pulling on the door handle will allow you to remove it. Yes, you must remove a piece of the car. Use the mechanical key in the now-exposed lock to unlock the driver’s door.
Continue to Part II, Getting Started …
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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.
These posts are 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.
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.
The author has 25 years of automotive experience and has assembled the most extensive collection of symbols and warning lights anywhere (over 1,000!) and can help you open and start any keyless start car with a dead key fob battery. BA, St. Joseph’s College, ME: MS, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, NY