Your Audi key code is a special 10-digit number used to activate Audi Connect features and register you as the car’s Key User in the myAudi system. It does not replace your car keys or any door/immobilizer PIN – it only links your vehicle to your myAudi account. Audi explains that this code “adds an extra layer of security so that only you can unlock additional myAudi features.” In practice, the Key User is usually the vehicle owner, and having the code lets the owner unlock functions like remote lock/unlock or send destinations to the car.
Remember that the key code is case-sensitive (letters must be capitalized). It’s only for setting up connectivity, not starting the engine or opening doors.
Where to Find the Code in a New Audi:
If you bought your Audi new, the 10-digit code should have come with the car. Look at the key fob tag or related paperwork. Typically, the code is printed under a scratch-off layer on a small plastic tag attached to the key ring. Lift or snap open the tag and gently scratch off the coating to reveal the number. For example:
The Audi key tag often has a scratch-off cover hiding the 10-digit vehicle code.
The code might also be on an Audi Connect activation card or paper inserted into the owner’s packet. Check the glove box or the documents you received. Occasionally, dealers include a small card or sticker with the code. If you have a spare key, see if there’s a tag attached to it as well. In short, check all key materials:
- Scratch-off key tag: A plastic tag attached to your primary key. Scratch it off to reveal the code.
- Activation card or paperwork: Some models come with a paper card or sheet listing the code.
- Spare key tag: The other may carry the same tag or a duplicate code if you have two keys.
If you still have the original owner or dealer paperwork, double-check there. New Audis are sold with the code delivered to the owner, so it should be somewhere with the keys or car documents.
What to Do if the Audi Code Is Missing:
If you didn’t receive the code or lost it, you’ll need to get a replacement from Audi. You can’t just guess or generate it – only Audi can supply a new one tied to your car’s VIN. Here’s what to do:
1. Contact an Audi dealer or customer service:
Explain that you need the 10-digit vehicle code (sometimes the V-PIN). Provide your car’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and proof of ownership (like your title or sales invoice). Audi’s support tells dealers: “A new vehicle code must be ordered from the dealer… These codes are ordered in association with a VIN”.
2. Verify your ownership:
The dealer will need to confirm you own the car. Be ready to show your ID and the vehicle’s paperwork. In some cases, as one owner reported, Audi customer service took a copy of the bill of sale or title and verified it before issuing a code.
3. Wait for the code:
Ordering the code can take a few days. In one case, an owner said the process took about five business days after contacting Audi. Some dealers say it can take around 3 days. Be patient – it’s coming from Audi’s system.
4. Be aware of possible fees:
Audi’s official info does not list a public price, but owners commonly report paying a small fee. For example, one owner in the US spent around $70, and another in the UK was quoted £57–£70. The cost varies by dealer and region. Ask your dealer up front if there’s a service charge.
In short, if the code is missing, you must order it through Audi. The dealer or Audi will tie the new code to your VIN and give it to you (often by updating the car via software or just telling you the code). Don’t trust third-party guesses or apps – only Audi can generate the correct 10-digit code for your vehicle.
Audi Key Code Common Issues and Troubleshooting:
1. Have you bought a used Audi without the code?
This is very common. They might not have provided the code if you purchased from a private seller or non-Audi dealer. Ask the seller if they have it. If not, follow the steps above to get a new code from Audi. Remember, even certified pre-owned (CPO) Audis should have this code given to you; if not, treat it like any used car and request a new code.
2. If the dealer says they “can’t find” the code?
they usually need to order a new one. Dealers typically must get it from Audi, not from some simple lookup. If a dealer is unhelpful, Call Audi’s customer service line (in the US, 877-505-2834) and request assistance. One owner did that and got a new code after five days of processing.
3. I entered the wrong code too many times:
The MMI (car’s infotainment system) will let you enter the code up to 10 times. After 10 incorrect attempts, the code entry is locked, and you’ll need a new code from the dealer. Don’t try random numbers—wait and get the correct code.
4. App or MMI errors:
If you see messages like “no services available” or “not verified as Key User,” the setup isn’t complete. Ensure you finished the steps below (verifying the account and entering the code). Sometimes, you may need to sign back into the app or double-check your user credentials. If the MMI shows an error when connecting to the server, contact your dealer for help – it could be an unrelated system issue.
5. My Audi app won’t sync:
This often happens if you’re not yet set as a Key User. The fix is to complete the in-car setup with the code. Once the car and account are linked, the app should sync your data normally.
Remember: the key code is ONLY for the myAudi/Audi Connect system. It doesn’t replace any physical keys or door PINs and won’t unlock your doors or start the car. Instead, it simply ties your account to the car’s connectivity. If you get stuck, focus on that process: verify your account and use the code inside the vehicle (see steps below).
Activating Audi Connect with Your Code:
Once you have your code (either from the tag or a newly ordered one), you must set yourself as the Key User in both your myAudi account and the vehicle. Here’s the basic process:
1. Set up your myAudi account:
Sign up for a myAudi account (free) on the Audi website or smartphone app. Log in and add your vehicle by entering its VIN. (The VIN is usually on the registration or a sticker on the driver’s door jamb.) Audi’s guides say, “Create your vehicle with the chassis number (VIN)” in the myAudi portal.
Use the myAudi portal or app to add your car by VIN.
2. Verify your account (become a Key User online):
In the myAudi portal or app, look for a Key User agreement/contract. You will create/accept this online. After that, contact your Audi dealer so they can verify that you own the car. (You may need to provide documents.) According to Audi, if you already have a myAudi account, you must set up a Key User agreement. After that, contacting your dealership for verification is essential — this step is mandatory. The system won’t let you proceed until the dealer confirms your status.
3. Enter the code in the car’s MMI:
Now, get into the vehicle. In the MMI screen, go to Audi connect → User Management (or “Set Key User”) → Set Key User. The car will prompt you for your myAudi email (username) and the 10-digit code. Enter both exactly (the code is all caps). Audi’s guide walks through this: select User Management, choose “Set Key User,” then enter your email and the vehicle code from the scratch tag. Finally, press “Login.”
4. Confirmation:
The car will register you as the Key User if the code and email are correct. The MMI should confirm success. Currently, your myAudi app and account are linked to the vehicle. You should now see live data from the car in the app and be able to send routes to the navigation system.
5. Optional – Syncing features:
After key setup, you can enable remote functions like sending destinations. To sync routes, go to “myAudi Destinations” in the MMI and log in with your myAudi credentials or use the 8-digit PIN from your account. (The PIN is found in your myAudi vehicle details.) Audi’s instructions show using this 8-digit PIN in the car’s menu to connect the app for navigation.
Key point: Entering the code in the car ties your account to the vehicle. Without this, your myAudi app cannot control or read your car’s data. The code itself was on your key tag. Once entered, the code is no longer needed again unless you reset the system.
New vs. Used vs. Certified Pre-Owned Audi Code:
1. Brand-new Audis:
The code comes with the car. Make sure you get it from the dealer at delivery. It’s usually included with the keys or owner’s packet. If the dealer didn’t give it, insist on it before driving off.
2. Used Audis:
Often, you’ll not receive the code because the previous owner may have scratched it off or lost it. Treat the used car like a missing code: as above, you’ll need to get a new one from Audi. In other words, even if the vehicle is a few years old, you can still set it up with your myAudi account by obtaining the code (with VIN and proof of purchase).
3. Certified Pre-Owned (CPO):
These cars usually have extra assurances, but the code situation is the same as any used car. A good CPO dealer should transfer the myAudi setup for you. However, if the code isn’t provided, you will follow the same process to order it. Often, the dealer handles this as part of the CPO sale, but confirm with them to avoid surprises.
Once you have the code, the activation steps (account, dealer verification, entering MMI) are the same.
Audi Key Code Is Not a Key:
Finally, remember what the key code does not do. It does not replace your physical key, remote fob, or any PIN/immobilizer code. When you use the Audi key code, the car will not start or unlock. It is purely a digital access code. The immobilizer PIN (if your vehicle has one) is for emergencies (like starting the car if the battery is dead), and it is not the same as the Audi Connect code.
In short, you need your keys to drive the car. The 10-digit code only unlocks features in the MMI/myAudi app.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q1. Where do I find my 10-digit Audi key code?
Look for a plastic tag attached to your key fob. Lift the tag and scratch off the cover – the 10-digit code will be underneath. It may also be on an activation card or your owner’s documents. Check any key ring or paperwork that came with the car.
Q2. I bought a used Audi and didn’t get the code. What now?
You’ll need to get a new code from Audi. Contact an Audi dealer (or call Audi customer service) and give them the VIN and proof that you own the car. The dealer will order a code for your vehicle. Please wait a few days for it to arrive, then use it in your vehicle.
Q3. How long does it take, and is there a cost for getting a replacement code?
Once the dealer orders the code, it usually takes a few business days. One owner reported it took about five days. Some dealers charge a fee for this service. Owners have reported $50–$70 (or £50–£60 in the UK). Ask your dealer about any upfront charges.
Q4. Do I need this code for Apple CarPlay or other features?
No. Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and everyday radio work without the Audi key code. The code is only needed for Audi Connect services (remote control, online navigation, etc.) and setting up your myAudi account. You don’t need the code if you only use the car’s local features. However, the code is required for remote unlocking, sending routes, or using online apps.
Q5. Is the 10-digit code the same as my car key or PIN?
No. The 10-digit Audi code is not a door lock or immobilizer PIN. You still use your standard key and any PIN/immobilizer the same way as always. The Audi code only links the car to your myAudi app and account. It does not start the engine or unlock the vehicle by itself.
Conclusion:
The Audi 10-digit key code is essential to activating Audi Connect and linking your vehicle to your myAudi account. Whether you’re driving a brand-new model or a recently purchased used Audi, having this code allows you to unlock advanced digital features like remote access, vehicle status, and destination sharing. While the code is typically provided with new vehicles on a scratch-off key tag, it can be recovered through your Audi dealer if missing. Though the process may take a few days and involve a small fee, it ensures your digital ownership is verified correctly and secured. With the code and your Key User status confirmed, you’ll be ready to take full advantage of your Audi’s connected technology.
