Having trouble programming your remote for your 2013 Volkswagen Passat? It can be frustrating when your key fob stops working, leaving you unable to remotely lock or unlock your car. This guide provides step-by-step instructions to help you program your Passat remote, whether you are trying to re-match an old key or program a new one. Follow these methods to get your remote working again without needing to visit a dealership right away.
Method 1: Re-matching an Existing Key Remote
This method is for remotes that have previously been paired with your 2013 Passat. If your remote has stopped working, sometimes simply re-matching it can solve the problem. This process needs to be completed quickly, within one minute.
- Prepare to Re-match: Have your key remote ready.
- Press Remote Button: Press either the “open” or “close” button on your remote for about one second.
- Lock or Unlock Manually: Immediately after pressing the remote button, use the key to manually lock or unlock your car door.
If the key remote is still functional and the issue was just a lost connection, this re-matching process should restore its function. Test the remote to see if it now operates the door locks.
Alt: Re-matching Volkswagen Passat key remote step one: Pressing the lock button.
Method 2: Programming with Two Keys (For New or Unresponsive Remotes)
If re-matching doesn’t work, or if you are programming a new remote, you will need to use a two-key method. This procedure requires two keys: one that currently works with your car and the remote you wish to program.
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Verify Door Lock Operation: Before starting, ensure that you can manually lock the driver’s door with your key and that the red LED alarm light next to the lock button blinks. This blinking light indicates that the alarm system recognizes the door is closed, which is necessary for programming mode. If the light does not blink, the car will not enter matching mode.
Alt: Verifying alarm system engagement by checking blinking LED on 2013 Passat door lock.
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Insert First Key and Turn Ignition On: Place one working key into the ignition switch and turn the ignition to the “on” position. Do not start the engine.
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Close Driver’s Door: Exit the car and close the driver’s door. You must be outside the vehicle for the next steps.
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Use Second Key to Lock and Hold: Using your second key (the one attached to the remote you are programming), turn the key in the driver’s door lock to the lock position and hold it there for 10 seconds.
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Release Key to Neutral: After 10 seconds, release the key back to the neutral (vertical) position.
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Press Remote Button Sequence: Press and release any button on the remote. Wait for two seconds, and then press the same button again.
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Check for Turn Signal Flash: Watch for the turn signal lights to flash. A flash indicates that the remote has been successfully matched to your car’s system and is now recognized.
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Unlock Door and Remove Keys: Unlock the driver’s door with the key. Remove both keys from the ignition and the door lock.
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Test the Remote: With all keys and remotes in hand and the door closed, test the newly programmed remote to ensure it is working correctly.
Important Notes for Successful Remote Programming
- Ignition State: Remotes will not function if the ignition is on or if a key is in the ignition switch. They are only responsive during the matching process when the ignition is turned on as instructed.
- Multiple Remotes: If you are programming more than one remote, you must repeat the entire procedure for each remote individually. Remember to remove the key from the ignition after programming each remote to finalize the process for that specific remote.
- Older VW Models: For older Volkswagen models from 2005 to 2007 that use H, P, or Q remotes, the procedure is slightly different. You still use the two-key method, but instead of holding the key in the lock position, you only need to turn the key to unlock the door (without holding) and then press a button on the remote once.
By following these steps, you should be able to program your 2013 Passat remote and regain full remote functionality. If you continue to experience issues, it may be necessary to consult with a professional automotive locksmith or your local Volkswagen dealership for further assistance.
