VW Audi SFD Unlock Procedure

Beginning in 2020 with MQB EVO and MEB vehicles, VW Audi secured their diagnostic connector data. To access the data we normally would by simply plugging in, an SFD unlock procedure is now required. SFD is VW’s Vehicle Diagnostic Protection or (Schutz Fahrzeug Diagnose).

SFD is designed to prevent unauthorized modifications to specific control modules, but it can also bottleneck normal service and maintenance. You will need to perform an SFD unlock for many common functions, like service reminder indicator reset. Service reminder reset is carried out by the instruments module, which is a secure module.

In this article I’ll show you how to perform the SFD unlock procedure on an MEB vehicle an Audi Q4. In this example, we have to reset the airbag light after a service and the airbag module is a secure module.

The procedure is similar on other secure modules.

You will need an authorization token to perform the SFD unlock, we will cover that process as well.

Before beginning, be sure you have a stable internet connection

Connect a suitable vehicle power supply

After auto identification of the vehicle

Enter the Common System menu
Tap 15 Airbags

Once connected to the airbag module, scroll to and tap Unlock SFD

Scroll to and Tap Request Protection Token from the vehicle

You will have 90 minutes to generate and enter the SFD unlock code.

Tap OK

On the next screen the token is generated. Scan the QR code to copy the code string to your phone.

You can also email the Token by selecting the ☰ symbol in the top right corner.

You can also email the Token by selecting the ☰ symbol in the top right corner.

Then, choose ‘Report Output’ and select the Email icon for ‘Diagnostic Information on Current Page.'”

Using the generated token, created and SFD unlock code from your dealer connection or a third party vendor.

Let’s cover a few best practices when it comes to SFD unlock codes.

I’m already logged into an SFD unlock code vendor’s site. These steps may vary depending on the vendor you use.

In this example, I will select SFD Generator.

From here the type of unlock code you generate will depend on the functions you are performing. For example, if you need access to a single module, we suggest selecting 1 time SFD unlock.

If you need full vehicle bi-directional access, we suggest selecting the 60 min SFD unlock option. Keep in mind, the 90 minute time begins when you activate access, so don’t do so until ready to use.

From here I will enter the vehicle VIN and select activate access

On the next screen select the VIN.

Next, copy the generated code from your iSCAN into the login request field
Select the vehicle brand. In our example it is AUDI
Next, enter the system diagnostic address. In this example we will enter 0015 for the airbag system equipped in this model.
Select request SFD

Once the code is generated, copy it to your clipboard

Return to the diagnostic data screen and paste the code.

Press the QR code symbol to import

Scan the QR code to open import application on your phone

Select and enter QR code from phone clipboard

Back at your iSCAN device, tap import

Tap OK to Unlock protection of vehicle

The control module is now unlocked and ready for bi-directional control

Return to previous menu to select desired function, for example we can now enter clear DTC’s and perform service functions.

Thanks for choosing iSCAN and check out our other articles for more helpful tips for VW Audi vehicles