Free VW, Audi, Škoda and SEAT radio code calculators: do they work?

Search for a VW or Audi radio code and you'll find plenty of "free radio code calculators", generators and apps. Before you type anything into your radio, it's worth knowing what can go wrong.

The problem with free calculators

• They often give the wrong code. A calculator can only guess from the serial, and many give a code that simply doesn't work for your unit.
• Every wrong code counts against you. Two wrong entries usually lock the radio into SAFE 2 for 60 minutes, and the wait can get longer with more wrong tries. See how the SAFE 2 lockout works.
• Some are not what they seem. Many "free" sites and downloads are covered in adverts, ask for payment after you've entered details, or offer files to download. Never download a program to get a radio code.
• There's no comeback. If a free code is wrong, nobody refunds your time or the lockout.

Safe ways to get the right code

1. Check for a code card first (free). Look in the service book wallet and owner's manual pack for a small radio code card. If its serial matches your radio, that's your code.
2. Ask a main dealer. They can usually supply the code if you prove you own the car. It often means a visit, a fee and some waiting.
3. Order it from the serial. Send us the 14-character serial from the radio's label (VWZ, AUZ, SKZ or SEZ). It's a fixed price, usually 1–3 hours, with your money back if the code doesn't work.

Before you enter any code

Make sure the code is for your radio's serial, not the car's VIN or another radio. Enter it slowly, check each digit on the display, and only confirm when it's right. Our Workshop Manual has step-by-step entry instructions for each radio.