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Component protection generation 1 (A8 2003-2010)

Component protection is the VAG mechanism that prevents modules being swapped between different vehicles without authorisation from the online database: the transplanted module throws the "component protection active" DTC and only works in limited mode. Generation 1 is the one used on A8 2003+ (and on a very small number of modules in A6/Q7/Allroad 2004+). This function clears the fault code and restores full functionality to the module.

Procedure

1. Start the "Component protection" special function and choose which generation to use at the beginning: select "Component protection - generation 1".
2. Select the module you want to adapt.
3. For most modules you first need to read the internal EEPROM with a programmer (for the MP3 CD Changer, the internal flash) and load the file with "Load dump". If no read is needed, the "Load dump" button is greyed out and you go straight to the next step.
4. For A8 2003-2010 modules only: connect 3 wires from the AVDI's DB25 connector to the vehicle, i.e. CAN-H, CAN-L and ground, following the wiring diagram shown in the software.
5. Splice into the orange/green wire (CAN-H) and the orange/brown wire (CAN-L); also connect GND and +12V. The easiest way is to unplug a connector (for example the one on the module under the driver's seat) and push the two wires from the AVDI into it; the AVDI ground can be taken from any metal part.
6. Press "Read component protection data" and wait for the read to finish.
7. Once the read is complete, carry on with adapting the module.

Reference screenshots