Lost your radio code? How to get your car radio working again

It happens to thousands of car owners every year: you get in your car, turn on the radio, and instead of music you see the word CODE on the display. Your car radio is locked and asking for an unlock code. But where do you find that code?

Why is my car radio asking for a code?

Car radios are equipped with a security system designed to discourage theft. As soon as the radio is disconnected from the power supply — for example with a dead battery, when replacing the battery, or during work on the car — the security is activated. The radio only works again after the correct code is entered.

Where do you find your radio code?

There are several places where you can find your radio code:

Vehicle documentation: Many manufacturers include a code card with the key set or in the service manual.
Glove compartment: Check if there is a sticker or card with the code in the glove compartment.
On the radio itself: The serial number on the radio can be used to retrieve the code.
At the dealer: The dealer can look up the code, but this is often expensive and requires an appointment.
Online service: Through a service like RadioCodeLookup.com you can instantly retrieve your code.

How do you enter the radio code?

The method of entering the code varies by brand and model. In general:

Turn on the radio — the display shows CODE or 0000.
Use the preset buttons (1-4 or 1-6) to set the digits.
Confirm with the volume knob, the OK button, or the arrow key.

What if I enter the code incorrectly?

Most car radios give you three to ten attempts. After too many wrong attempts, the radio switches to a waiting period. This can vary from a few minutes to 24 hours. So make sure you have the correct code before you start entering it.

Quickly retrieve your radio code

Don't have the code anymore? Through RadioCodeLookup.com you can instantly retrieve your unlock code. You only need the serial number or PRE code of your radio. The entire process takes just a few minutes.