Finding your car radio serial number: the complete guide

The serial number of your car radio is the key to retrieving your unlock code. But where do you find this number? In this guide we cover the most common methods per brand.

General locations

For virtually all car brands, you can find the serial number in one of these places:

On the radio itself: A sticker or engraved label on the side, top, or back of the radio.
On the display: Some brands show the serial number via a button combination.
In the documentation: The service manual or a separate code card with the key set.
In the glove compartment: A sticker or card with the serial number.

Renault: PRE code via the display

Renault makes it easy: hold preset buttons 1 and 5 simultaneously. The PRE code (letter + 3 digits) appears on the display. No removal needed.

Ford: M code via the display

For Ford radios, you can retrieve the M or V code by holding buttons 1 and 6 (or 2 and 6) simultaneously. The serial number scrolls across the display.

Volkswagen, Audi, Peugeot, Citroen, Opel, Fiat

For these brands, you usually need to remove the radio to find the serial number. You need radio removal keys that fit your model. These are available online for a few euros.

Mercedes-Benz and BMW

For BMW, you can sometimes retrieve the serial number via the "m" button (menu). For Mercedes-Benz, you almost always need to remove the radio. Note: some models require Torx screws.

Removing the radio: how to do it

Buy the correct removal keys for your car brand (usually costs a few euros).
Insert the keys into the holes on both sides of the radio.
Gently press the keys outward and slowly pull the radio forward.
Find the serial number on the sticker on the side or back.
Write down the number and slide the radio back in.

Serial number found?

Once you have the serial number, you can instantly retrieve your radio code. Go to your brand's page, enter the number, and you will receive the correct code within seconds.