Yes, I'm new here, but having used many forums in the past, I did what I thought was a very thorough search before posting here.

So here's my problem:

A few weeks ago, I bought an '04 A4 1.8T privately. This car came with only one "switchblade" key, the owner couldn't find the others. After reading posts here, I found a key on ebay with the same part/fcc numbers, etc. The key arrived and I had it cut by the local 'smith. Now, when I place the key in the ignition, I get a "SAFE" indication in the dash. I realize this is because the key needs to be programmed. I have tried following Audi's instructions in the owner's manual to no avail. I can only assume the remote won't program itself to the car because it's in safe mode. Or am I wrong on that count? I also realize that that will not reprogram the transponder.

I also tried several threads instructions on using the central door lock to program this thing. Not happening.

Should I go to the dealer and pay to have this done? Or is it possible I have a bad remote? How would one test the remote to see if it's D.O.A.? Any help would be greatly appreciated.

 

The Key can be programed two ways firstly you take it to an audi dealer have it pluged in to the 5051 which will then look accross the ECU for the date that it is and then check what no. code is required to program the key to the dash. or you take it to a Car speshalist key cutter/proramer who will have a machine that can clone the chip in the new key to the same frequency as the chip the a key that works. Not sure if they can do the same with the remotes but this is less complicated you don't need date issued codes for this just a diagnostic tool plug the diagnostics in then go into
(key must be in the ignition switched on)
central convience 46
adaption 10
channel 21
slect which poition you want to store the remote under e.g. 0001
then hold down the button till it says reqonized store it and the remote in now programed.