FAQ
TL;DR: PINs are typically 5 digits in tools (example: 00610). "Me7 pin you have 00610." This FAQ shows how to read your immo PIN, adapt a new cluster, and add keys on an Audi A4 B6 using CarProg, VCDS, or EEPROM methods. For A4 B6 owners and techs replacing a cluster without the old one. [Elektroda, biba24, post #17130626]
Why it matters: Using the right path (OBD vs EEPROM) prevents lockouts and speeds safe cluster swaps and key adaptation.
Quick Facts
- CarProg can read VAG ECU PIN via OBD when the ECU is original, saving time versus opening the ECU. [Elektroda, biba24, post #17129542]
- If OBD access fails, desolder the ECU or cluster EEPROM and read the dump to extract the PIN. [Elektroda, Ireneo, post #17127242]
- Tools often output a 5‑digit SKC PIN, e.g., 00610 on a ME7 ECU case. [Elektroda, biba24, post #17130626]
- For key matching, read immo data from the clocks, adapt in VCDS, then pre‑code ID48 and add keys. [Elektroda, piotrek1994, post #17132392]
- Preparing an active transponder from your cluster lets you log in and then add the ECU. [Elektroda, biba24, post #17138584]
Where can I get the immobilizer PIN if I don’t have the old cluster?
From the engine control unit. "From the engine control unit." Use OBD with a compatible tool or extract the EEPROM if needed. [Elektroda, T5, post #17127171]
Can CarProg read the PIN via OBD on Audi A4 B6?
Yes, CarProg can read VAG ECU PINs over OBD if the ECU is original. If the ECU is not original or is immobilizer‑off, OBD reading may fail. [Elektroda, biba24, post #17129542]
Do I have to desolder the ECU to get the PIN?
If OBD reading is not possible, desolder the EEPROM and read the dump. That is the reliable fallback. Use a programmer to read the chip on the bench. [Elektroda, Ireneo, post #17127242]
How do I adapt a replacement cluster with VCDS after getting the immo data?
Read the immobilizer data with CarProg, adopt in VCDS, then pre‑code ID48 and add keys.
- Read immo/component security data from the clocks using CarProg.
- In VCDS, adopt the cluster using that data (Login/Adaptation as per guide).
- Pre‑code ID48 transponders and add keys in VCDS. [Elektroda, piotrek1994, post #17132392]
VCDS Login‑11 rejects my PIN. What should I check?
Verify you are logging into the correct module for your immobilizer generation. Enter the SKC in the supported format. Convert older 4‑digit codes to 5‑digit with a leading zero where required. If locked out, wait the specified time, then try again. [Immobilizer III Instrument Cluster Swapping (Audi A4)]
Which ECU types are common in the A4 B6, and does that affect reading?
Common ECUs include EDC15 and ME7. In one ME7 case, the PIN was 00610 (5 digits). Reading method can differ by ECU and tool support. [Elektroda, biba24, post #17130626]
Can I read the PIN from the cluster (clocks) instead of the ECU?
Yes. Read the immobilizer/component security data from the clocks with CarProg. Adopt the cluster in VCDS and add keys. [Elektroda, piotrek1994, post #17132392]
Do KWP2000 Plus or MPPS v16 read the immo PIN?
To read the PIN, use a programmer/EEPROM method rather than generic OBD flash tools. That approach targets the immobilizer data directly. [Elektroda, Ireneo, post #17127188]
I don’t have a working key. How can I still log in and adapt?
Create an extra transponder coded from your cluster’s data. With an active key, you can log in, then add the ECU. [Elektroda, biba24, post #17138584]
Which transponder chip do I need, and do I pre‑code it?
Use an ID48 transponder. Pre‑code it with your immobilizer data, then add the keys in VCDS after cluster adoption. [Elektroda, piotrek1994, post #17132392]
Where do I enter the PIN in VCDS for an A4 B6?
Use VCDS. Select 17‑Instruments, then Login‑11 to enter the SKC. Continue with Adaptation as per the guide. [Immobilizer III Instrument Cluster Swapping (Audi A4)]
Can we discuss odometer correction during a swap?
No. The forum’s rules prohibit public discussion of mileage correction in vehicle meters. The moderator closed that topic. [Elektroda, CameR, post #17140417]
CarProg read a PIN from my meter, but VCDS still errors—now what?
Read full immobilizer data from the clocks in CarProg. Adopt the cluster in VCDS. Pre‑code ID48 and add keys. That is the recommended order for a successful swap. [Elektroda, piotrek1994, post #17132392]
