UK-POLOS.NET - THE VW Polo Forum

Strange thing. I have two keys for my new to me 15-plate Polo 1.4 TDI. One of the keys does nowt, as in it doesn't work. No automatic unlock or lock. When tried in the ignition it starts and the car's immobiliser kicks in.

I renewed the lithium battery, same result.

Is there a way to recode it? Car has Das WeltAuto warranty until May 2020, so I'm sure I can get it fixed. I have VCDS if required.

I’d think that is a main dealer job, VCDS will be of no help there, and as you have extended warranty, and were possibly sold that car with what you were lead to believe were complete with 2 (working) keys, that is what someone needs to help you end up with FOC.

Thought that RUM4MO, will wait until the New Year. I'm in no rush to get back to Volkswagen main dealer any time soon as this would be fourth trip since May and (I'm servicing it myself) once warranty lapses. Car has warranty until May 2020, so plenty time to get it fixed.

Fair enough, but being in the "only one key working" situation might have its own inconveniences - now that you know that this is your current situation.

Do you have any working keys? It sounds like you have a working key and a not working key. Did these keys come with your car? If so, I'd just claim it on the warranty.

Assuming your key is broken... VCDS is of no use at all. You really need to go to a dealer here, or have access to an immo tool like VVDI/AVDI/... but I don't know the details on that.
I think with the newer keys with a chip instead of a glass transponder, the key needs to be electronically sound in order to start your car. If it's broken, it won't work.

Yes I have a working key, but you know what it's like, I reach into the Faraday bag to get the car key (all our car keys are kept there), get out to the car, it doesn't work so head back in to swap it. Need to get it sorted.