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  • Car Radio Security Code


    In order to deter theft, the majority of major automobile manufacturers implement a car radio security code. When the car stereo is removed from a vehicle, the device will not be usable until the unlock or security code is entered by the car owner or authorized repair facility. Unfortunately, some models of cars and trucks will require the security code to be entered by the consumer when the battery is disconnected for routine maintenance of the vehicle.

    Locating a Car Radio Security Code before You Need It

    The best time to obtain a car radio security code is before removing the unit from a car or truck or conducting maintenance that requires the battery to be disconnected. Taking this approach will minimize frustration encountered when getting locked out from using a car stereo as well as possibly save money on unlocking the radio depending on the manufacturer and area of the world the vehicle is being used.

    Step 1 – Locate your automobile owner’s manual and look for the section that contains guidance for the radio. A number of instruction manuals will include the radio security code within the manual in the stereo section or on the inside cover on a sticker.

    Step 2 – If the manual does not include the code, look in the automobile’s glove box for a radio code sticker or card. Occasionally some automobile manufacturers will place the code in this location.

    Step 3 – The next option is to remove the stereo to write down the serial number of the unit to request the security code from the car manufacturer. To do so, first remove the faceplate located around the car radio. For many car models, you can accomplish this by sliding a flat object or screwdriver around the plate and gently pull or pry it out. Some models may also have clips holding the plate in-place or require that it be slid to the side or downward to remove. Next, pull or slide the car radio out just far enough to read the label normally located on top of the stereo. The serial and model numbers of the device will be visible to write down. Then, write down the VIN number of the automobile (located on the driver’s side of the front window of the car as well as on the side of the driver’s side door). Finally, take this information in to the local dealer for the car’s service shop or call the manufacturer directly to request the car security code. Alternatively, you can call the radio manufacturer retrieve the code with the same information.

    Kenwood Radio Security Codes

    Kenwood is one of the most popular brands of car stereo sold in the United States. Similar to other major car radio manufacturers, Kenwood implements a four digit security code to help deter theft of the devices. If a stereo has been removed from an automobile that it is installed, it will require entry of the code in order to function again. Entry of the code is also required for legitimate owners of the stereos who may have bought the unit second-hand, or simply forgotten to write down or ask for the code on the initial purchase of the stereo.

    Basic Kenwood Radio Security Codes

    A number of Kenwood stereos are sold which use the same security code. Some of the most commonly encountered codes are:
    1234 – Not a factory default, but a commonly found security code when attempting to figure out the code for a Kenwood radio purchased second or third-hand.

    3051 – Security code included in a number of Kenwood radio manuals.
    KCAR – A common Kenwood model security code that has been found to work across a number of models of the stereo.

    How to Enter Letters using a Kenwood Radio Remote Control?

    Sometimes the simple tasks are what make it challenging for automobile owners to enter a car stereo security code. For Kenwood radios, it may be necessary for car owners to enter letters with the remote control of the stereo.

    Step 1 – Press a button once for the first letter, twice for the subsequent letter, and so forth.
    Step 2 – Click or press the “Next Track” or “Track Up” keys to send the letter to the car stereo. For example, to send the letter B, press the “2” key twice followed by pressing the  “Track Up” button.
    Step 3 – Hold the “Track Up” button for at least three seconds once all of the security code letters have been sent to the car stereo. If successful, the stereo will enter “Tuner” mode once the correct security code has been transmitted.

    How to Enter a Kenwood Radio Security Code

    Unfortunately for many automobile owners, if one’s automobile battery is disconnected, many Kenwood models will require the radio’s security code be entered before the device will work again. The specific procedure for entering the code will vary based on the model of stereo. The following are some of the more common security code entry procedures for Kenwood stereos:

    Kenwood Type 1 Radios
    Step 1 – Ensure the radio is in code request mode.
    Step 2 – Press the “DISP” key on the device and at the same time push and hold the volume up or down key for at least three seconds. You will see “…” displayed on the Kenwood radio.
    Step 3 – Input the security code for the radio using the remote control for the device.
    Kenwood Type 2 Radios
    Step 1 – Make sure the radio is in the security code request mode.
    Step 2 – Depress the “Auto” and “Track up” buttons on the radio at the same time.
    Step 3 – Wait until you see four dashed lines on the face of the radio.
    Step 4 – Input the car radio security code using the Kenwood remote control.

    Kenwood Type 3 Radios
    Kenwood Type 3 radios consist of the model numbers DPX-4020 and 4030.
    Step 1 – Ensure the radio is in the security code request mode.
    Step 2 – Press and hold the “1” and then the “6” preset keys on the device.
    Step 3 – Hold these keys until the Kenwood radio displays the letter “C.”
    Step 4 – Input the car radio security code using the Kenwood remote control.

    Kenwood Security Code Issues

    Some models of Kenwood stereos have been found to contain a security code handling bug. If a model has this bug, the third digit of the security code will be decremented by one. So, if you are having issues entering the code in a Kenwood stereo model, try decrementing the code by one number to see if the stereo is impacted by the error. For example, if the stereo’s security code is 7777, the modified code for taking the security flaw into account would be 7767. If the code is 2222, then the modified code would be 2212.

    Kenwood Radio Video Unlock

    Many Kenwood stereos have the ability to play video in the automobile. Unfortunately, some consumers will encounter a video locking of the device. The following are steps to take to unlock the device if you do not know the appropriate security code:

    Step 1 – Locate and use the remote control from the CD receiver. If you do not have the remote, then most Excelon CD receiver remote controls will work.
    Step 2 – Switch the remote mode to “AUD.”
    Step 3 – Press “55222277” on the remote control. You will not get visual feedback when entering the security code.

    Kenwood Models with Up / Down Volume Control Buttons

    If your Kenwood stereo has “Up / Down” volume control buttons, then the following steps may be able to help you unlock the car radio security code:

    Step 1 – Depress and hold the “Volume Up” button on the radio.
    Step 2 – At the same time, press and hold the “Disp” radio button for approximately five seconds.
    Step 3 – View “_ _ _ _” on the radio’s main display panel.
    Step 4 – Enter the “KCAR” default security code using the remote control to the stereo or alternative security code (if you have it). In order to enter the KCAR code, you will conduct the following actions:
    – Press the “5” key on the remote control twice followed by the “Track Up” button.
    – Press the “2” key twice on the remote followed by the “Track Up” button.
    – Press the “2” key three times on the remote followed by the “Track Up” button.
    – Press the “7” key twice followed by the “Track Up” button.
    – Press the “Track Advance” button the remote to complete entering the security code. The stereo will enter the “Standby” or “All Off” mode if the code was entered successfully.

    How to Retrieve Honda Car Radio Security Codes

    Honda makes it a little more straight-forward to retrieve car radio security codes than other automobile manufacturers. Note, these steps work for stock stereos that were installed in Honda automobiles at the time of sale and for models installed after purchase at an authorized dealer.

    Step 1 – Collect the following information which will be required to retrieve the car radio security code from Honda: automobile VIN number, radio serial number, and the phone number and ZIP code that match the information stored on file with Honda.
    Step 2 – Open your computer’s web browser and navigate to the Honda security code website during the hours of 0400 to 9PM (PST) Monday through Friday, 0400 to 6:30 PM (PST) on Saturdays, and 0400 to 9PM on Sundays.
    Step 3– Enter the required information on the security code website (VIN, Zip code, phone number, radio serial number, and email address before clicking the “Submit” menu button.
    Step 4 – Wait for Honda to validate the ownership information for the automobile and car stereo. Once validated, the security code will be provided to the end-user to unlock the stereo.

    How to Enter a Honda Anti-Theft Radio Code?

    Entering the security code for a Honda radio is slightly different than the procedures for Kenwood stereos. These steps are those to use once you have successfully retrieved the stereo’s security code from the automobile’s user’s manual or from the manufacturer’s website.

    Step 1 – Turn on the Honda radio console by pressing the “Power” button. For most cars, this will require you to have the ignition switch turned to the “On” position or for the car to be started.
    Step 2 – Wait until you see the word “CODE” displayed on the Honda radio’s display screen.
    Step 3 – Enter the radio’s security code on the device’s number pad. If entered successfully the radio will reset itself and work normally.

    Steps to Unlock Toyota Radios

    Similar to Honda vehicles, many Toyotas also ship with anti-theft devices or mechanisms for the installed stereo. If the radio is removed or battery disconnected, the anti-theft unlock code must be entered in order for the device to work properly. The following are the steps to take if you have the Toyota security code but need to know how to enter it.

    Step 1 – Turn the ignition key to the “On” position.
    Step 2 – Turn on power to the car stereo.
    Step 3 – Depress and hold the preset “1” button. Then, press and hold the “Tune Up” stereo button.
    Step 4 – Release each button when you see “- – – “ appear on the stereo display.
    Step 5 – Using the numbered preset buttons on the car stereo, enter the security code. The car stereo will turn off or power down when the last digit of the correct code is entered.
    Step 6 – Turn on the car stereo and it will be unlocked.

    Default Toyota Car Radio Security Codes

    A common problem that happens with owners of Toyota vehicles is taking the vehicle in for repairs and the car stereo getting locked out. The following are instructions that have been proven to help owners of Toyota stereos with part numbers: PZQ60-12010, PZQ60-00021, PZQ60-0002 and PZQ60-52010 unlock their radio. Before trying out the steps, realize that most Toyota radios will only allow 10 attempts to enter a security code. This number will be displayed after the “Err” code on an incorrect entry. After 10 tries, “HELP” will be displayed on the car stereo window and require dealer assistance to correct.

    Step 1 – Set the car ignition switch to the “ACC” position.
    Step 2- Press and hold the “Seek” button and then press the “1” button. You will see “_ _ _ “ displayed on the car stereo window.
    Step 3 – Enter the Toyota pin numbers by pushing the number “1” button for the first digit, the “2” button for the second, and “3” for the third. Every time the button is pressed the number of the digit is incremented. When complete, you will need to push the “Scan” button to save the entry. If you do not know what pin number to enter, some of the common Toyota default security codes include:

    – The final or last three digits on the VIN number. (Most common)
    – First three numbers of the Toyota dealer’s code
    – Final three digits of the chassis number

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    93 comments
    1. Jelli Been

      20 January, 2022 at 4:34 am

      Hi,
      Does anyone have the code for Proton S16 please. Thanks.

      Reply
    2. Granville

      28 December, 2019 at 7:29 pm

      Good day, can you assist me with unlock code for a 2009 Toyota voxy, radio serial no 721085, the ERC No 901406158213C264

      Reply
    3. Erick

      12 September, 2019 at 1:45 pm

      Toyota aqua yr 2012
      Erc code 1011761602100E35
      Kindly assist with unlock code

      Reply
      • Granville lawes

        28 December, 2019 at 6:37 pm

        Unlock code for 2009 Toyota voxy.SERIAL No 781085, ERC No901406158213C264

        Reply
    4. Anthony kojo oduro

      11 August, 2019 at 2:47 pm

      I have toyota rav4 2007d4d . When i replace the battery the radio has lock out.
      But this type of radio is the cd unlock type but i have misplace the cd.
      Now the radio is not working .
      I need a some to help me

      Reply
    5. Hatanarachchi

      10 June, 2019 at 6:07 am

      Kenwood DDX635WBT Mode. Serial – 089X0327. I need security code,,,,,pls

      Reply
    6. Hatan arachchi

      10 June, 2019 at 6:05 am

      Kenwood DDX635WBT Mode. Serial – 089X0327. I need security code,,,,,pls

      Reply
      • Jacqui

        27 September, 2019 at 3:18 pm

        Hi I’m looking for the code to my radio
        Serial no
        T00AM 313 4 R 0351

        Reply
    7. Nikola

      15 January, 2019 at 2:46 pm

      I need a vw code radio. serial number VWZ2Z2H5101030

      Thenks

      Reply
    8. TERESA

      9 January, 2019 at 7:06 pm

      Hello, I have replaced a stereo in my Jetta with another radio from pullapart and it is in safe mode right now. Serial no. is VWZ5Z7C5130928, MODEL NO. CQ-JV1067XC,
      BASE MODEL 1JM 035 157K. IF THERE IS ANY WAY THAT YOU CAN HELP, I WOULD APPRECIATE IT. THANK YOU.

      Reply
    9. Mohand

      23 September, 2018 at 5:16 am

      Hi every one, is there anyone knows how to get the Radio sec. code for Toyota hilux 2004
      Thax

      Reply
    10. Ryan Wharam

      6 September, 2018 at 8:06 am

      Can you please help
      I have a Honda Fit 2017 model and need the code to reset the radio.
      It’s a Gathers VXM-174VFI
      Serial number 77103805

      Reply
      • Manuel Torres

        23 August, 2019 at 5:42 pm

        check door post, inside glove box, outside glove box, engine bay , inside fuse box lids. this are the many places honda puts a white sticker with radio codes.

        Reply
    11. Stelios

      24 June, 2018 at 6:24 am

      Good morning.i lost the code from my radio and i need help my radio is
      RCD 300 MP3 (5M0 035 186 C) (SW 0033) (HW034)
      VWZ2Z2G3087241

      Reply
    12. Ahmad Hanif

      13 June, 2018 at 6:24 pm

      hi,
      kindly help me with the code of multimedia of my new car . i just bought it.
      multimedia model # gathers vxm-164vfi

      Reply
    13. Wael

      25 April, 2018 at 4:52 pm

      Can i have the Code for this radio please
      Pn:05064950AG
      Datacode: 3151
      Supplier: 26777L
      S/N: TT1AA3151F5382
      Thanks for your help

      Reply
    14. Rodello

      16 February, 2018 at 10:05 am

      My car is a Toyota Hilux, When I tried to press the seek ^ and 1 simultaneously and waited for a while, nothing happened. Its supposed to show the 3 lines. I know the 3 digit code of my car. That is only my problem to get into where the 3 lines to appear. Please help…

      Reply
      • Mohanad

        23 September, 2018 at 5:20 am

        Hi mate could u tell me what’s the code for Toyota hilux and how to get it ?! Coz I have same ur car

        Thax

        Reply
    15. mody

      11 February, 2018 at 9:03 am

      Hello All;

      Actually i need to change my old Radio car in Citreon C3 2012 to a new one that support the bluetooth features and i need to know how i can configure the new code to activate the Radio.

      Thx.

      Reply
    16. Taha

      29 September, 2017 at 4:31 pm

      I want to get help to know code of radio

      kia k102R last s/n is 0865

      Reply
    17. Taha

      29 September, 2017 at 4:31 pm

      I want to get help to know code of kia k102R last s/n is 0865

      Reply
    18. Saidin

      23 August, 2017 at 9:12 am

      P3-21. 625690075150907603
      Ineed a code

      Reply
    19. sabelo

      6 August, 2017 at 7:22 am

      I need a vw polo vivo code radio. serial number VWZ4Z4N6054556

      Reply
    20. nazneen

      4 August, 2017 at 4:44 pm

      I have Gathers VXM-164 VFXi. It is locked. I need code.

      Reply
    21. Peterson

      31 May, 2017 at 9:51 am

      Very frustrated! Trying to unlock Toyota prius 2010. Who have the default code?

      Reply
    22. anooj

      29 April, 2017 at 4:02 pm

      i buy a honda fit hybrid 2014 ,i dont have VIN number
      i have chassis no gp5 3076721
      model CQ-UH03J1CJ
      serial no 560057
      and my audio model GATHERS VXM 145 VFI

      IF SOMEONE CAN HELP ME TO GET THE CODE

      Reply
    23. Simone

      4 April, 2017 at 10:47 am

      Can someone please help me find the security code for a Toyota Prado 2004 as we charged the battery and now the radio has SEC on the screen, I’ve tried the last three digits of the vin but comes up error, any suggestions will be greatly appreciated. Also all the windows won’t. Down except the drivers side so not sure if the flat battery had anything to do with this as well.

      Reply
    24. Renata Julea

      27 December, 2016 at 7:34 pm

      hii, can you tell me the radio code for a santa fe II KMHSH81WP7U151523
      radio serial no MP10060766

      Reply
    25. zigis

      22 October, 2016 at 7:02 pm

      cant hellp me I need radio code audi a3 auz1z3y3033686

      Reply
    26. Davis

      22 February, 2015 at 12:34 pm

      Can anyone tell me the radio code for 97

      Reply
    27. Jay

      30 December, 2014 at 2:46 am

      You all are whiners. I own a 2008 Honda Civic which I’m very disappointed in…On the way home from work the other day a soda can exploded all over inside the car. This made the preset buttons and volume knobs sticky and hard to use. No prob., I thought, I will just adjust these things from the steering wheel from now on. Disconnected the battery last night. After reconnecting the batt. cable, it says “enter security code,” WHICH I HAVE, UNLIKE ALL YOU WHINERS,” but how can I enter it without the damn preset buttons (that have the numbers on them) working properly????
      Don’t the car companies think these things through before installing headaches??? MY CAR is the true pain in the ass!!!

      Reply
      • Civic Honda

        22 May, 2016 at 9:54 am

        You dumb ass whiner…….you are the idiot who spilled the soda…..buy a new one and stop whining

        Reply
    28. yazdan

      9 December, 2014 at 7:14 pm

      can someone help me to find the cod of my beetle 2012

      Reply
    29. jesse

      24 January, 2014 at 10:34 pm

      Can someone can help me to find the code in my golf 98 please

      Reply
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