How to Reset Car Radio Without Code?
If you own a Honda (Accord or Civic) or one of three Acura models (RDX, TLX, and ILX), you can luckily bypass the requirement for a code to reset your car radio. Switch on the ignition, turn the radio on, and then wait for it to display ‘CODE’. Once you see it, turn your radio off. Next, press and hold the power button on your radio for 45 minutes. Doing this will allow your car radio to bypass the code and reset without code.
Table of Contents
The majority of car radios come with an anti-theft radio code. If the battery is separated from the car or runs out of juice or if the radio is unplugged from its harness, the anti-theft mechanism is activated.
Obviously, you now want to get your radio back in working order. You’ll need to enter the anti-theft code. If you do not have the code with you, there are some simple steps you can follow to retrieve it. If that is not possible, then you may be able to reset your radio with the code in some cars (as explained for Honda or Acura models).
Contact the Car Manufacturer
If you don’t own one of the mentioned models it’s better to find the appropriate code for your car. There are various online methods you can try – see this article for full explenation.
The phone number for your car’s manufacturer can be found in the owner’s manual. Request to be connected to the customer service department. You will be asked for evidence of ownership if you tell them you need to reset your car stereo.
They will require the VIN of your vehicle, the account number from your sales contract, and personally identifiable information such as your driver’s license.
You can have your car’s radio unlocked at the manufacturer’s dealership. The dealership will be able to acquire the code from the manufacturer and activate the radio for you once you have confirmed that you are the owner of the vehicle.
