VW Jetta Key Fob Troubles? Try Battery Fix First

As a VW Golf TDI 2009 owner, I faced this exact same issue last month. The auto key system started failing and I got the low battery warning on the dashboard. With some basic car maintenance experience, I first suspected the fob battery was dying. A quick trip to the workshop confirmed my suspicion, the key fob battery was completely dead. The replacement was straightforward and cost 37€ including labor. Since then, the keyless entry system works perfectly again. Before suggesting more specific solutions, could you share: Does the physical key still work in the door lock? When was the last time you changed the fob battery? Are you getting any specific error messages on the dashboard? Does the key work intermittently or has it stopped completely? These details would help determine if you are dealing with a simple dead key fob battery or if there might be other underlying issues with the electronic system. The fix is usually quite simple and affordable if its just a low battery issue. However, if the new battery doesnt solve the problem, there could be issues with the key programming or door lock sensors that would need professional diagnosis.

Last service was at 147000km and everything else checked out fine. Just got the fob battery replaced last week for 35€ but the problem persists. The physical key works perfectly in the door lock. No error messages showing up, but the remote just wont respond at all, not even a flicker from the car lights when pressing buttons. Tried reprogramming the key following the manual instructions but no luck. Starting to think it might be more than just a dead key battery at this point.

Thanks for those additional details. Having gone through a similar situation with my Golf TDI, I understand your frustration. Since you have already replaced the battery and confirmed the mechanical key works, we are likely looking at either a faulty key fob or a receiver issue. When my keyless system acted up even after a battery change, it turned out the internal contacts in the key fob had corroded. The low voltage from the connection issues prevented proper signal transmission, despite having a new battery installed. Quick things to check: Open the key fob and inspect for any corrosion on the battery contacts, Test the key at different distances from the car, Try your spare key if you have one to isolate whether its a key or car issue In my case, cleaning the contacts with electronic contact cleaner fixed the issue. However, if cleaning doesnt work, you might need: Key fob circuit board replacement (around 80€), Reprogramming by a professional (100-150€), Receiver module diagnostic/replacement if the problem is car-side Consider getting the car computer scanned for hidden error codes related to the central locking system, as some issues dont trigger dashboard warnings but still get logged.

Thanks for the input. I really appreciate the detailed suggestions. After checking the contacts inside the key fob as recommended, I found some green crusty buildup around the battery terminals. Going to try cleaning those connections first with some contact cleaner before taking it to the shop. Makes sense that corrosion could prevent proper power flow even with a new fob battery installed. If that doesnt work, I will have the receiver module checked since the physical key still works fine in the door lock. The repair costs mentioned are helpful for budgeting, good to know a full key fob replacement would be around 80€ if needed. Will update once I get this sorted out. This forum has definitely saved me from immediately rushing to the dealer, which would have been much more expensive.