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SFD, short for Schutz Fahrzeug Diagnose, is the Volkswagen Group security layer that restricts coding, adaptations and parameterisation on newer cars. SFD2 is the newer generation. A workshop needs authorised access on a compatible tool. Automotics offers yearly VAG Security Gateway licences for this.
SFD protects selected control units on newer VAG vehicles. Without authorised access, functions such as coding, adaptations and basic settings are blocked on those units. The Autel product page describes it as a layer that tracks who changed what, and when.
According to that page, it affects models from model year 2020 on the MQB Evo and MEB platforms, for example the VW Golf 8, Skoda Octavia IV, Seat Leon IV, Audi A3 8Y, VW ID.3 and ID.4. Procedures change with vehicle updates, so check before each job.
The Security Gateway shields a vehicle network from diagnostic tools on many makes, including FCA, Mercedes-Benz, Renault and Nissan. SFD is the VAG version of this idea, and Autel and Thinkcar describe their VAG licence as covering SFD, so a workshop with one of those tools can plan the access.
Our Security Gateway licences include VAG licences from Autel, Thinkcar and EAATA, each valid for one year, plus packages that span several brands. Each licence works only with the tool maker it is sold for.
With an active licence on a compatible tool, the technician can perform codings, adaptations, parameterisation and actuator tests on the protected control units. The licence runs for one year, so plan to renew it before it lapses and stops a job.
Match the licence to the tool you own, not to the car alone. Then check the brands and model years listed on the product page. Our multi-brand diagnostic tablets show the tools these licences run on, so compare the two before you buy.
If you are still choosing a diagnostic tool for VAG work, our VCDS guide compares a specialist tool with multi-brand options.
Plan SFD work before the car arrives. Newer VAG cars can refuse coding or adaptations without access, and that costs time at the lift. A little preparation avoids the problem and keeps the job on schedule for the customer.
Each VAG licence is sold for one tool maker, so the right choice follows from the diagnostic tool you already own or plan to buy. Match the brand first, then the model years, and only then compare the licence term.
We offer VAG licences for Autel, Thinkcar and EAATA equipment, and the product pages list the supported vehicles. If you own a tool from another brand, ask us before you order, because a licence for a different brand does not apply to your device.
Ask yourself two questions. Which cars will arrive in the next year, and which functions do they need? If the answer includes recent MQB Evo or MEB models, plan the licence together with the tool, not afterwards.
For VAG, yes on the licences sold for it. The Autel and Thinkcar VAG licences are described as covering SFD on compatible devices. The EAATA VAG package gives access to secured VAG systems on EAATA equipment. A licence for another tool brand does not apply.
Newer Volkswagen Group models from around model year 2020, built on platforms such as MQB Evo and MEB. Check the product page for the supported brands.
SFD2 is the newer generation of the same protection. Check that your tool and licence list the vehicle you work on.
No. Each licence is sold for one tool maker. Autel licences, for example, are linked to the serial number of the device.
Not sure which VAG Security Gateway licence matches your tool? Ask the Automotics technicians. Tell us the device and the cars you service, and we will advise before you order.