Accessing SGW on FCA Vehicles

Secure Access for FCA Group Cars

You might have encountered it already and it might even be why you're reading this, but in case you didn't, here's the short version - SGW or Security Gateway is a diagnostic security layer present in most cars of the former FCA Group since 2018, typically in cars from brands such as Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Jeep, Chrysler and others. What does the feature actually do, aside from causing a headache for independent workshops and DIY enthusiasts alike?

The SGW security layer prevents you from accessing and tampering with almost all of the control units in the vehicle, the end result of which is usually being referred to authorised workshops or dealers that can easily bypass this access. Is there any solution at all apart from an authorised dealer? The answer is yes.

The Three Options

1. Purchase a suitable scan tool that supports SGW access
2. Use a hardware-based SGW Bypass
3. Visit an authorized service centre

Diagnostic Scan Tools With SGW Access Support

These are, by far, the easiest option. Let's use a Launch scan tool as an example. Our range of Launch scan tools already possess this compatibility, and they fully support the option of SGW access without you having to bypass, disconnect or troubleshoot anything. To gain SGW access for one of our Launch products, you need to register the device on the AutoAuth website where you simply fill in your details, register the device and pay for the licence.

After that, if a car equipped with SGW rolls in and you connect to it with your scan tool, you will be prompted to log in and thanks to the AutoAuth subscription the device will let you work without restrictions. The subscription comes out to about $60 per year. If you want to include the Nissan brand in the subscription, the cost rises to $100. The way you register your AutoAuth account is critical - don't hesitate to contact us if you need any help or advice.

1. Go to the AutoAuth website.
2. Create an account.
3. Log in to your account.
4. Under the "Compare Plans" tab, select the plan of your choice, for most purposes, the AutoAuth Standard will suffice.
5. Register your tool in the "Manage Tools" tab.
6. Save everything and you are ready to work without limitations.
7. For diagnostics or service tasks that are locked behind SGW, the scan tool will prompt you to log in. Just enter the log-in details you have registered on the AutoAuth page and you will be able to do work without restrictions.

SGW Bypass

The second option is a solution in some situations, but we recommend it only as a last resort. This is because it compromises the security integrity of the car. In addition, it is a physical intervention into the vehicle, usually requiring you to remove parts of the dashboard to get to the SGW module, the location of which varies with each car model, and "bridge" the module using the SGW Bypass, effectively disabling the security feature altogether. After connecting your scan tool, you will have free rein to perform any diagnostic or service tasks. If your warranty is long expired or you simply don't mind losing the extra security layer, it's a very affordable solution.