component protection removal

[janul12]

Hello,
My MMI head unit seems to be dead and audi want to charge ~3000€ for replacement.
I was thinking to buy used component to save money. So I asked my local audi dealer if they will remove CP - they said they wouldn't do it.
I'm just wondering.... Audi can only do it and their practice it to force you to by new component+labour by rejecting CP-remove service - Is it legal practice?

[zollaf]

you take old used unit to audi, they remove cp so you cn use it. turns out unit you bought was stolen, audi now in trouble. worse still it doesn't work, you blame audi, ends up in court. would you expect tescos to sell you some second hand baked beans ? if you want to go the cheap route then get a unit and find someone to remove cp and programme it etc... audi are not forcing you at all, you are just not willing to pay their prices... simples.

[janul12]

Thank you Zollaf for quick reply. I understand it I think.
If I bought new one from Audi - do I still need them to make coding?

[zollaf]

not sure on that one, maybe included in price. its the same with dash clusters as well, they won't decode an old one either, so its only new, but there are people with computers who can, you just have to find them.

[B5NUT]

Best thing to do when having component protection removed from a module is the following

1. Do NOT talk to the dealer to ask if they will do the job.
2. Fit the unit yourself or have someone do the job.
3. Get the unit coded and clear all fault codes (You won't be able to remove the CP fault code).
4. Take the car to the dealer and say it's not working, they will scan the car and find the CP fault. (plead ignorance at this point you know nothing about it)
5. They should remove CP and charge you around £100 (£70 is the minimum diagnostic charge)
6. If the unit is stolen then an VAS error code will appear and they will not be able to remove CP (There will be no police involved) I know I've been sold a stolen part before.

Your best bet now is to talk to another Audi dealer after you have fitted and coded the part.

If you by a new part from the dealer then they will fully code and remove CP from the unit.

Final option is to by one of the Control heads on ebay that sellers have hacked CP from the unit.


AUDI ,A6,Q7 MMI 2G INTERFACE CP FREE!!! | eBay