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SFD

Understanding SFD Security and How It Affects Your Software Installation

Modern vehicles are equipped with advanced security systems, and SFD (Schutz Fahrzeug Diagnose) / PVD (Porsche Protection of Vehicle Diagnosis) is one such measure. SFD is designed to ensure software changes—like tuning—are performed with your consent and under secure conditions. While this system improves safety, it can add steps to the tuning process, particularly for those installing software at home.


At APR, we’re committed to making the process as simple as possible with our tuning systems such as the APR Ultralink. However, due to SFD security, some vehicles require additional steps or tools to proceed with software installation. Here’s what you need to know:

Three Levels of SFD Security

If your software installation does not start, your vehicle may be equipped with one of the following SFD levels:

Level 1 – Quick and Easy

  • Solution: Simply open the vehicle’s hood before beginning the installation.
  • Details: This level has been around for years and requires minimal effort to unlock.

Level 2 – Requires a Third-Party Tool

  • Solution: Unlock the vehicle using a third-party tool, such as OBDeleven with their Pro/Ultimate plan. Alternatively, the factory ODIS & PIWIS scan tool can also perform this unlock.
  • Details: Introduced in some early ~2023 model year vehicles, this level requires a communication process where the vehicle sends a command to the manufacturer’s servers and receives an unlock code to allow programming for a limited time.
  • Tip: Turning on your emergency flashers and pulling the parking brake during this process can extend the window of time available for software installation.

Level 3 – Factory Tool Required

  • Solution: This level typically requires the factory ODIS & PIWIS scan tool, which is not commonly available for home use.
  • Details: Active primarily on late ~2023 and 2024+ models, this level requires a similar back-and-forth communication process as Level 2 but is significantly more restrictive. At this time, software installation can only be enabled using the factory ODIS & PIWIS scan tool.
  • Tip: Keeping your emergency flashers and pulling the parking brake active is necessary to extend the programming window.
  • Guide: This document will step you through the process.

We’re Here to Help

We understand these additional steps—especially Levels 2 and 3—can feel overwhelming, and we’re here to support you. If you’re unable to complete the process, we’ll gladly assist you. You can:


  1. Speak with our experts for guidance and advice.
  2. Request a full refund if the process isn’t feasible for you.


For assistance, please contact our support team at +1 (334) 502-5181.


At APR, your satisfaction and trust are our top priorities. While we’re actively working on solutions to simplify this process, we want you to feel confident we’ll support you any way we can, and we’ll be here every step of the way.