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How to unlock SFD-protected control units?
How to unlock SFD-protected control units?
Edvinas avatar
Written by Edvinas
Updated over a week ago

We've created an SFD auto-unlock feature to simplify the use of SFD protection, or, in other words – make SFD protection almost invisible. If SFD auto-unlock is turned on and you try to change long coding, adaptation, or use One-Click Apps in a locked control unit, the OBDeleven app will automatically request the SFD token from Volkswagen servers, unlock the control unit, and apply the changes you want.

You need a PRO VAG or ULTIMATE VAG plan to use this feature. The SFD unlock won't work if you're located in China.

How to unlock SFD on Android

1. Connect your vehicle to the OBDeleven VAG app and open the list of control units.

2. Choose the control unit you need from the list. For this example, we'll use the Gateway control unit.

3. Scroll down the list and click on "SFD Protection."

4. OBDeleven can automatically detect if a control unit is locked by SFD protection. When you try to use Long Coding, Adaptations, or One-Click Apps, the app will prompt you to authorize the SFD unlock procedure.

Proceed by pressing "Unlock."

5. You'll need to confirm your email (if you haven't done so), enable 2-step authentication, and update your account information.

6. Start the 2-step authentication setup by clicking the "Start" button. If you need help, press "Learn more" for instructions or read our article: How to set up 2-step authentication?

7. You'll also need to update your personal information to access SFD functionality for the first time as required by our agreement with Volkswagen AG. Enter your first name, last name, country, and phone number. If using the device in a workshop, include workshop information.

8. Agree to the privacy policy and terms and conditions, then save your information by pressing the appropriate button.

9. Complete the setup process. You'll now be able to access SFD-protected control units.

How to unlock SFD on iOS

1. Connect your vehicle to the OBDeleven VAG app and open the list of control units.

2. Choose the control unit you need from the list. For this example, we'll use the Gateway control unit.

3. Scroll down the list and click on "SFD Protection."

4. OBDeleven can automatically detect if a control unit is locked by SFD protection. When you try to use Long Coding, Adaptations, or One-Click Apps, the app will prompt you to authorize the SFD unlock procedure.

Proceed by pressing "Unlock."

5. You'll need to confirm your email (if you haven't done so), enable 2-step authentication, and update your account information.

6. Start the 2-step authentication setup by clicking the "Start" button. If you need help, press "Learn more" for instructions or read our article: How to set up 2-step authentication?

7. You'll also need to update your personal information to access SFD functionality for the first time as required by our agreement with Volkswagen AG. Enter your first name, last name, country, and phone number. If using the device in a workshop, include workshop information.

8. Agree to the privacy policy and terms and conditions, then save your information by pressing the respective button.

9. Complete the setup process. You'll now be able to access SFD-protected control units.

How to check if a control unit is SFD-protected?

Open the control unit, go to "Live Data," and search for "SFD." 2. If you find "SFD activated status," it means the control unit is SFD protected.

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