Ford 4500 RDS Radio Code

The Ford 4500 RDS is the cassette and early CD radio that Ford fitted to Fiestas, Focuses, Ka, and Escorts through the late 1990s and early 2000s. If yours is locked after a battery change or power event, this guide explains how to find the V-code serial and retrieve the four-digit unlock code.

What Vehicles Carry the Ford 4500 RDS?

The 4500 RDS (and its close relatives the 4000 RDS and 4500 RDS/CD) was the standard-issue Ford head unit from approximately 1997 to 2004. You will find it in:

Fiesta Mk5 and early Mk6 (1999–2006)
Focus Mk1 (1998–2004)
Ka Mk1 (1996–2008)
Escort Mk7 / Orion (1995–2000)
Puma (1997–2002)
Mondeo Mk2 and Mk3

The 4500 RDS is a single-DIN cassette unit (some later variants added CD) with a flip-down panel on some versions to protect the tape slot. Like all Ford radios of the era, it uses an anti-theft code that activates when power is lost. Browse all supported Ford models if your vehicle is not listed here.

Finding the V-Serial on the Ford 4500 RDS

The Ford 4500 RDS uses a V-prefix serial (e.g. V123456), which is printed on a white sticker on the body of the unit. Unlike newer Ford radios, the 4500 RDS typically does not display its serial on screen via a button combination — physical removal is usually necessary:

Obtain a set of Ford radio extraction keys (four thin metal blades, readily available from motor factors). Insert one blade into each of the four small holes around the unit's face until you feel a click.
Pull the unit firmly forward out of the dashboard.
Read the V-serial (six digits after the V) from the white label on the top, side, or rear of the unit.
Re-seat the unit in the dashboard.

With your V-serial in hand, request your Ford 4500 RDS radio code online for a fast result.

Entering the Code on the Ford 4500 RDS

Switch the ignition on. The display shows CODE (or may show LOCKED if previous attempts have been made).
Use preset buttons 1–4 to cycle each digit of the four-digit code to the correct number.
Press preset button 5 or the * button to confirm the code.
If correct, the display changes to a station name or frequency and normal radio operation resumes.

4500 RDS Variants and Serial Reference

Model Variant	Years	Serial Prefix	Media Type	OEM Maker
4000 RDS	1997–2001	V	AM/FM only	Visteon
4500 RDS	1999–2004	V	Cassette + RDS	Visteon
4500 RDS/CD	2001–2006	V	CD + cassette	Visteon / Ford

LOCKED Permanently — What to Do

Ford's lockout policy for the 4500 RDS is the same as for the 6000CD: too many incorrect entries result in a permanent lock (the display may show LOCKED with no countdown). Unlike Renault or VW units that display a one-hour wait, Ford's lock does not self-resolve. Options:

Ford dealer reset: A dealer with IDS (Integrated Diagnostic System) can reset the unit's attempt counter. Proof of ownership is required.
Independent auto electrician: Many independents with Ford-compatible diagnostic equipment can perform the same reset more affordably.
Prevention is the best approach: always retrieve the correct code from your V-serial before attempting to enter anything.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I find the serial without removing the unit?

On most Ford 4500 RDS units, no — the unit does not display the serial via a button combination. Physical removal using extraction keys is the standard method. It typically takes less than two minutes and requires no specialist tools beyond the four-blade extraction keys.

My 4500 RDS shows LOCKED — have I permanently locked it?

Not necessarily. If you have only made one or two incorrect attempts, the unit may still accept further entries. Try powering the unit again (with ignition on) and see if CODE reappears. If it does, you have more attempts remaining. If it shows just LOCKED without a code entry prompt, a dealer reset may be required.

Is the Ford 4500 RDS still supported by online code services?

Yes. The V-serial algorithm for 4500 RDS units is well established and supported. Enter your V-serial at our Ford code lookup to get your code instantly.

My serial starts with M, not V — is it still a 4500 RDS?

An M-prefix serial usually indicates a later 6000CD unit, not a 4500 RDS. However, some hybrid or transitional units do use M serials. In either case, the code retrieval process is identical — simply enter the full serial (M or V) and the correct code will be returned.

Don't drive in silence — get your Ford 4500 RDS radio code online using your V-serial and have your stereo working again within minutes.