Autel IM608 Program VW Tiguan 2019 MQB48 Key via APB131

 In this article, we will walk through the process of adding a new key to a 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan (MQB platform). The original key was ordered but had not yet arrived, so the technician decided to extract the necessary data from the instrument cluster to program a new key. Additionally, the customer requested an extra non-original (Chinese) key as a backup.

Step 1: Removing the Instrument Cluster

The first step involved removing the instrument cluster (dashboard panel). Here’s how it was done:

1. Disassembly – The panel is held in place by clips and two Torx screws. Carefully removed the clips and unscrewed the panel.

2. Opening the Cluster – Once removed, the cluster was opened to access the internal components. Inside, a TMS70F35 chip was identified, which stores key-related data.

Cluster number: 5NA.920.891.C

Processor: D70F3539

Step 2: Extracting Key Data

To program a new key, we need to read the immobilizer data from cluster. This involved:

• Soldering Connections – Solder wires to the instrument cluster’s circuit board to establish a connection for data extraction.

• Reading the Data – Using Autel IM608 and APB131 adapter, the immobilizer data was read. This process took approximately 15 minutes.

Step 3: Programming the New Key

Once the data was extracted, the next step was programming:

1. Original Key Preparation – The original key (when it arrived) would be programmed using the extracted data.

2. Adding a Chinese Key (here use Xhorse XM38) – The customer requested an additional non-original key. The technician prepared it as a “dealer key” and programmed it into the system.

Key Calibration Process

• The car’s system recognized two existing keys.

• The new (Chinese) key was successfully calibrated and tested.

• Both the original and the new key worked, though the Chinese key lacked remote start functionality, which the customer deemed unnecessary.

Conclusion

The process of adding a key to a 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan involves:

1. Removing and accessing the instrument cluster.

2. Extracting immobilizer data via soldering and software.

3. Programming new keys (original or aftermarket).

Final Notes

• Original vs. Aftermarket Keys – Original keys offer full functionality, while aftermarket keys may lack features like remote start.