How to Fix "Start and Shutdown" Issues Caused by Immobilizers in VW and Audi ECUs
If you’ve recently installed a used or replacement ECU in your VW or Audi vehicle and it starts but immediately shuts down, the immobilizer is likely the culprit. This common problem is frustrating but can be resolved with the right solution: disabling the immobilizer.
Why the Immobilizer Causes Problems
Most modern VW and Audi vehicles come with immobilizer systems designed to prevent unauthorized access or theft. However, when you replace the ECU with a used or remanufactured unit, the immobilizer may not recognize it. This causes the vehicle to start and then immediately shut down, as the immobilizer blocks the new ECU from being fully integrated.
How to Fix Immobilizer Problems
Our Immobilizer OFF Delete Service disables the immobilizer function in the ECU, allowing your vehicle to run properly without being blocked by the immobilizer system. This fix addresses the "start and shutdown" issue and ensures the ECU functions normally.
The Steps to Fixing the Issue:
- Diagnose the Problem: If your vehicle starts and then shuts down while the immobilizer light flashes, and you're seeing fault codes like P1570 ("Engine Start Blocked by Immobilizer") or P0513 ("Incorrect Immobilizer Key"), it’s likely an immobilizer issue.
- Use Our Immobilizer OFF Service: Send in your ECU, and we will disable the immobilizer. Once this is done, the immobilizer will no longer interfere with the ECU, and your vehicle will be able to run without being blocked.
- Reinstall the ECU: After the immobilizer has been disabled, reinstall the ECU in your vehicle. This will prevent the immobilizer from shutting the vehicle down after starting.
Why Choose Immobilizer OFF?
Disabling the immobilizer bypasses the root cause of the issue, allowing your replacement ECU to work seamlessly. This service is especially helpful when replacing a faulty ECU with a used or remanufactured one, as it ensures the immobilizer won’t cause compatibility issues.
Key Benefits:
- Resolves the "start and shutdown" problem caused by the immobilizer
- Clears fault codes related to immobilizer issues
- Allows your vehicle to run smoothly with a replacement ECU
