Why Do I Have to Pay for Security Gateway Licenses?

At Thinkcar UK, we’re proud to offer professional diagnostic tools that are powerful, reliable, and competitively priced. Our annual license renewals are among the most affordable in the automotive diagnostic industry — often up to 60% cheaper than other brands.
But we understand one of the most common questions we receive:
“Why do I have to pay extra for Security Gateway access?”
Here’s everything you need to know.

What Is a Security Gateway?A Security Gateway (SGW) is a digital lock built into many modern vehicles. It protects the CAN network (the communication system between vehicle modules) from unauthorized access through the OBD port.

In simple terms, it ensures that only approved diagnostic devices can access and perform key functions on the vehicle — helping to prevent hacking, unauthorized programming, or data breaches.
Manufacturers such as FCA Group (Fiat, Chrysler, Jeep, Alfa Romeo), Renault/Dacia, Mercedes/Smart, VAG Group (Volkswagen, Audi, Skoda, Seat), and Nissan have already implemented Security Gateways.

Without a valid SGW license, even basic tasks like service light resets, battery registration, or ADAS calibration may be restricted.

Why Do Security Gateways Exist?Following a 2015 cybersecurity incident where hackers remotely accessed a connected vehicle, car manufacturers took major steps to protect onboard systems. Secure Gateways were introduced to block unapproved devices from accessing critical modules.
However, under European Right-to-Repair laws, manufacturers must still allow independent garages access — but only through official, licensed channels. These licenses require fees to cover OEM authentication and secure connectivity.

Why Thinkcar Charges for SGW LicensesAt Thinkcar UK, we believe in complete transparency. The Security Gateway license fees are not a profit source — they exist solely to cover:

• OEM authentication and licensing costs
• Ongoing software development and maintenance
• Compliance with manufacturer security requirements

We could easily include these costs in the purchase price of every tool, but that would mean everyone pays, even those who never need gateway access. Instead, we’ve chosen to make SGW licenses optional add-ons, keeping our products affordable and fair.

Only for Official Thinkcar UK Products⚠️ Important: These Security Gateway features are available only on official Thinkcar UK diagnostic tools.
We have seen counterfeit or imported Thinkcar products that do not include genuine OEM gateway access. Using non-official tools can result in incomplete functionality, connection issues, and loss of warranty or support.
To ensure full compatibility, support, and future updates, always purchase your device and license directly from Thinkcar UK or an authorized distributor.

What’s Included with Your Thinkcar ToolEvery new Thinkcar diagnostic tool includes a minimum of two years’ license coverage as standard. The only additional costs you may face are:

• Remote programming services, and
• Optional Security Gateway licenses

These flexible add-ons mean you only pay for what you need — keeping our pricing transparent and competitive.

Genuine OEM Coverage — No Workarounds
​Thinkcar’s Security Gateway coverage uses genuine OEM-approved licenses. We do not use any unofficial bypasses or third-party hacks. When you activate SGW access through Thinkcar UK, you’re using a fully authorized and secure method, ensuring professional, legal, and reliable diagnostics.

The Future of Vehicle DiagnosticsAs new cars continue to evolve — especially with ADAS systems and connected technologies — Security Gateways are becoming the industry standard.
With Thinkcar UK, you can stay ahead of the curve with authentic, up-to-date, and affordable diagnostic tools backed by genuine OEM access.

✅ Supported Security Gateway Brands

• FCA Group (Fiat, Chrysler, Jeep, Alfa Romeo)
• Renault / Dacia
• Mercedes / Smart
• VAG Group (Volkswagen, Audi, Skoda, Seat)
• Nissan