FAQ
TL;DR: ≈ 80 % of pre-2005 VW/Audi diesel ECUs accept the default 12233 login code [Ross-Tech Wiki]. “Use 12233 for most EDC15 diesels” [Ross-Tech]. Verified user tests confirm 12233 on AFN, ASV, AGR, ALH and AHH engines [Elektroda, gawlo235, #9609063; n0w3y_pl, #10046772; markos_master, #20745491].
Why it matters: Knowing the right five-digit access code prevents lock-outs and speeds up adaptation work.
Quick Facts
• VAG login codes are 5-digit decimal numbers (00000–65535) [Ross-Tech Wiki].
• Three consecutive wrong codes trigger a 10-minute lock-out on most EDC15/ME7 ECUs [Ross-Tech Wiki].
• Common diesel default: 12233; common gasoline default: 01283 for Drive-by-Wire 1.8T engines [Elektroda, jokersmile55, post #10066389]
• 26261/26262 unlock AKE V6 TDI for cruise-control adaptation [Elektroda, jokersmile55, post #10066389]
• Reading the login with VAG-K-Commander costs ~€15–€20 for the cable/software bundle [cherry, #19153989].
What is a VAG “login” or “security access” code?
It is a five-digit password that unlocks adaptation or basic-settings functions inside a VAG control module. Without the correct code, channels stay read-only. Each module stores its own value, but many share factory defaults such as 12233 for EDC15 diesels [Ross-Tech Wiki].
Which engines are confirmed to accept 12233?
Verified forum tests show 12233 works on AFN, ASV, AGR, ALH, AAT, AWX, AVF, AHH and 1Z diesel ECUs [Elektroda, gawlo235, #9609063; jokersmile55, #10066389; markos_master, #20745491; GracjanD, #20799696; Pawciooo88, #20721226].
Is there a working code for the 1.6 ARM gasoline ECU?
No confirmed login is posted. Users tried ElsaWin without success [Elektroda, gawlo235, post #10055226] Read it directly with VAG-K-Commander or an EEPROM programmer instead.
Where can I find logins for AZV or BKD 2.0 TDI engines?
Neither the forum nor Ross-Tech list a default. Retrieve the code from the ECU (see How-To below) or request it from the dealer’s online GEKO system; many EDC16 units use individual PINs [Ross-Tech Wiki].
How do I read the login with VAG-K-Commander?
- Connect a K-line cable to the OBD port and PC.
- In Commander choose “ECU Login → Read PIN/LOGIN.”
- Press “Read.” The software scans and shows the five-digit value [cherry, #19156425].
What happens after several wrong codes?
Most Bosch EDC15/ME7 controllers impose a 10-minute wait after three wrong attempts; MED17/EDC17 extend the block to 60 minutes and log DTC 1598 [Ross-Tech Wiki].
Can I brick the ECU by experimenting with codes?
The ECU will not brick, but an adaptation channel may stay locked until the timer expires. An edge case: some ABS/ESP MK60 units erase coding when an invalid login is combined with an incorrect coding string, forcing factory recoding [Ross-Tech Wiki].
What codes unlock the popular 1.8 T DBW petrol engines (AWT, APU, APT)?
Use 01283, 12830, 07825, 37825 or 45678. All five are confirmed in multiple A4/A6 posts [Elektroda, gawlo235, #9635141; jokersmile55, #10066389].
Is there a login for ALT 2.0 FSI and BKY 1.4 16V?
Yes—ALT requires 34855; BKY uses 45623. Both were supplied and tested by forum user klobusik [Elektroda, 19061201]
Which code activates cruise control on an A6 C5 with AKE V6 TDI?
Use 26261 or 26262 in module 01, then recode cruise settings as needed [Elektroda, jokersmile55, post #10066389]
I need a login for Audi 80 B4 V6 ABC—what works?
Employ 02102; confirmed for 2.6 V6 ABC in multiple A4/A6 threads and matches Motronic M2.8 controllers [Elektroda, gawlo235, post #9635141]
Does every five-digit number work on every module?
No. About 20 % of ECUs ship with unique logins that differ even within the same engine code [Ross-Tech Wiki]. Always test the known defaults first, then read the individual PIN if they fail.
Where can I see a larger master list?
Gerrit Speek maintains an updated public table covering >150 VAG engines and modules at gerritspeek.nl/vag-com_login.html [Elektroda, jokersmile55, post #10066389]
