How to Get Your Honda Radio Code

You can get your Honda radio code by locating the radio’s serial number and entering it—along with your VIN—on Honda’s official code-retrieval site (https://radio-navicode.honda.com/) or by contacting a Honda dealer with proof of ownership. Many newer Hondas don’t need a manual code and will reconnect automatically after a battery change; if your screen asks for a code, follow the steps below.

What the Honda radio code is and when you need it

Honda’s radio code is an anti-theft PIN that unlocks the audio/navigation unit after power is lost (for example, after a battery replacement or if the unit was removed). Most older models require you to enter a 5-digit code. Many newer vehicles auto-restore once they detect the correct VIN, but some still prompt for a code—especially if the unit has been swapped or the vehicle is out of cellular/Wi‑Fi range.

Quick ways to find the code without tools

Before dismantling anything, check these common places where Honda often leaves the radio code or where it may be documented from prior service.

• Glovebox or door jamb sticker: Look for a small label that may show a 5-digit radio code and/or the radio serial number.
• Owner’s manual packet: Check the radio code card or the first pages of the warranty/service booklet.
• Service receipts: Some dealers print the code after radio or battery work.
• Previous owner documents: If you bought used, the code may be included in the sales paperwork.
• Auto-restore on newer models: After reconnecting the battery, drive for a few minutes; some systems restore automatically when they verify the VIN over the vehicle network or a data connection.

If you find a 5-digit code on a labeled card or sticker, try it first. If not, you’ll need the radio serial number to retrieve the code online or from a dealer.

If you don’t have the code: get the radio serial number

Your radio serial number is unique to the audio/navigation unit. How you find it depends on your system type and model year.

Non-navigation radios with physical buttons (roughly 2001–2014)

Most single-CD/AM-FM units display the serial on-screen via a button combination.

1. Turn the ignition to ON (or ACC). Turn the radio OFF.
2. Press and hold preset buttons 1 and 6.
3. While holding 1 and 6, press the power/volume knob to turn the radio ON.
4. Look for a multi-part serial, often shown as “U####” and “L####” or as an 8-digit sequence. Write it down exactly.

If the display shows two blocks (example: U1234 and L5678), combine them into one serial (e.g., 12345678). Some models show a 10- or 11-digit serial; copy it precisely as displayed.

Factory navigation or Display Audio systems

Navigation and touch-screen units provide the serial number in a diagnostic or system info screen.

1. Older factory navigation (hard buttons): With the unit ON, press and hold Menu + Map/Guide + Cancel for 3–5 seconds to open the diagnostic screen. Note the “Serial Number” or “Device Number.”
2. Display Audio (2014+ varies by model): Go to Settings > System > About (or System Information) and note the “Audio Unit Serial Number” (and “Navi Serial” if shown).
3. If the unit prompts for a code and won’t show menus, try starting the engine and waiting a few minutes; some systems reveal the serial after a brief lock period.

Record any serials exactly as shown. Some vehicles list separate audio and navigation serials; you may need both if the system asks for two codes.

If the screen won’t power on

If the display is dead or unreadable, you may need to check labels or the radio chassis directly.

1. Look again for a glovebox/door jamb/trunk sticker with the serial number.
2. If unavailable, the serial is printed on a label on the radio itself. This requires removing the trim and the unit; if you’re not comfortable, ask a dealer or audio shop to retrieve it.
3. Verify that your 12V battery is healthy; low voltage can keep the unit from powering on.

When in doubt, a Honda dealer can pull the unit, read the chassis label, and provide the serial safely.

Retrieve the code online (U.S. and Canada)

Honda provides a free online tool to get your code. You’ll need your VIN, the radio serial number, and contact details.

1. Gather your VIN (from the dashboard or registration), the radio serial number, your ZIP/postal code, and a phone number and email.
2. Go to Honda’s official site: https://radio-navicode.honda.com/
3. Select Honda, then enter the VIN, radio serial, and requested owner info.
4. Submit to receive your 5-digit code. Write it down and keep it with your records.

The Honda site is free and immediate for most U.S./Canada vehicles. If your vehicle is from another market or the unit was replaced, you may be directed to contact a dealer.

Get the code from a dealer

If the website doesn’t work or you’re outside the U.S./Canada, a Honda dealer can generate the code using Honda’s internal database.

• Bring your VIN and proof of ownership (registration and ID).
• Provide the radio serial number (or ask them to retrieve it if necessary).
• Most dealers provide the code at no charge; some may charge a small admin fee.
• For phone assistance in the U.S., you can also contact American Honda at 1-800-999-1009; in Canada, Honda Canada at 1-888-946-6329.

Dealers can handle swapped or foreign-market radios and can help if the unit shows a lockout or error message.

Entering the code and common pitfalls

Once you have the code, entering it is straightforward—but be mindful of lockout limits.

1. Turn ignition to ON/ACC. Power on the radio; it should display “CODE” or prompt for a PIN.
2. Use preset buttons 1–6 (or the touchscreen keypad) to enter the 5-digit code. Each press enters a digit.
3. If “Err” or “Code Error” appears, stop. Most units allow about 10 attempts before a lockout. If locked, leave the ignition ON with the radio ON for up to 1 hour, then try again.
4. After correct entry, the unit should resume normal operation. Re-set your presets and clock as needed.

If the code is not accepted after careful re-entry, re-check the serial and VIN, and confirm the unit hasn’t been replaced with a different radio.

Troubleshooting

If you still can’t unlock the radio, these issues are common and easy to address.

• Wrong serial or swapped unit: If the radio was replaced, the serial won’t match your VIN records. Read the serial directly off the unit label or have a dealer verify.
• Two different codes needed: Some nav systems use separate audio and navigation device codes.
• Region mismatch: U.S./Canada site may not recognize vehicles from other markets; contact a local Honda dealer.
• Low battery voltage: A weak battery can cause reboots and failed code entries. Stabilize voltage or use a maintainer.
• Persistent lockout: Leave ignition and radio ON for an hour to clear. Don’t keep guessing; it extends the lockout.
• Avoid paid “code sellers”: Third-party sites are unnecessary and risky. Use Honda’s official site or a dealer.

If problems persist, the fastest resolution is to visit or call a Honda dealer with your VIN, radio serial, and ID.

Frequently asked quick facts

These brief answers cover the most common questions owners have about Honda radio codes.

• Cost: Free via Honda’s official site or at most dealers.
• Code length: Usually 5 digits for Honda-branded radios.
• Attempts allowed: Typically about 10 before a timed lockout.
• Newer models: Many 2013+ vehicles auto-restore without a manual code; if a code is requested, follow the steps above.
• What you need: VIN, radio serial number, and basic owner/contact info.

Keeping the code with your owner’s documents can save time after any future battery service.

Summary

To get your Honda radio code, locate the radio serial number (via the button combo or system info), then use Honda’s official code site or ask a dealer with your VIN and proof of ownership. Many newer Hondas reconnect automatically, but if your unit requests a code, the process is quick, free, and reliable when you have the correct VIN and serial.

What is the 4 digit code on a Honda radio?

Honda vehicles sometimes require a 4-digit code to unlock the radio, especially after the battery has been disconnected or replaced. This code is often related to the navigation system rather than the radio itself. You can typically find the code on a sticker in the glovebox, center console, or in your owner’s manual. If you can’t find it there, you can retrieve it online by providing your VIN and radio serial number on the official Honda website. 
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
1. Check for the code in common locations:

• Sticker in the glovebox or center console: The 4-digit code (or a longer serial number) may be on a sticker in one of these locations, according to Fisher Honda. 
• Owner’s manual or service history: The code might also be in your owner’s manual or service history log, according to Fisher Honda. 
• Anti-Theft Radio Identification Card: Newer models may include a separate card with the code and serial number. 

2. If you can’t find the code:

• Online retrieval: . Opens in new tabHonda’s website provides instructions for retrieving the code online. You’ll need your VIN and radio serial number (obtained from the radio itself by holding down preset buttons 1 and 6 while powering on). 
• Contact a Honda dealer: . Opens in new tabIf you’re unable to retrieve the code yourself, a Honda dealership can help you. They may need your VIN and radio serial number. 

Important notes:

• Be careful with entering the code: Avoid entering incorrect codes repeatedly, as this can lock the radio. 
• Navigation system codes: If the code is related to the navigation system, you may need to access the navigation system’s menu to enter the code. 

How do I find my 4 digit radio code free?

Contact the vehicle manufacturer: Some carmakers will provide the radio code for free. Speak with the dealership that originally sold the vehicle: Dealerships may have access to radio codes and may give you this information for free or a small fee. Contact the previous owner.

How to reset Honda radio?

To reset a Honda radio, you typically need its anti-theft code, which can be found on an ID card in the owner’s manual, on a sticker inside the glove box, or retrieved from the Honda website or a Honda dealer using your car’s VIN. Once you have the code, turn the car’s ignition to ON (but not start), turn on the radio, and enter the five-digit code when it displays “CODE” or “ERR”. If the radio won’t accept the code, try a hard reset by disconnecting your car’s battery for a few minutes. 
How to Find Your Radio Code

1. 1. Owner’s Manual: Check the glove box for a sticker or a small ID card with the five-digit radio code. 
2. 2. Honda Website/Dealer: If you can’t find the code, you can get it from the official Honda {https://mygarage.honda.com/s/radio-nav-code website} or a local Honda dealer. 
   • To get the serial number: With the key in the on position and the radio off, press and hold buttons 1 and 6 simultaneously, then turn on the radio to display the serial number. 
   • On the website: Enter your VIN, email, and other required information to retrieve the code. 

How to Reset the Radio with the Code

1. Turn the Ignition: Turn your vehicle’s ignition to the ON position or AUX, but do not start the engine. 
2. Turn On the Radio: Power on the radio. 
3. Enter the Code: The display should show “CODE” or similar. Use the radio’s number buttons to enter the five-digit code you found. 
4. Confirm: The radio will then return to normal function. 

If the Radio Shows “ERR” 

1. Disconnect the Battery: Turn off the vehicle and disconnect the black negative (-) battery cable for one to three minutes.
2. Reconnect the Cable: Reconnect the battery cable.
3. Retry: Repeat the steps above to enter the code.

For Touchscreen Models (2018 and Newer) 

• Soft Reset: . Opens in new tabPress and hold the power button on the radio for more than two seconds to restart the system and refresh the screen. 
• Full Factory Reset: . Opens in new tabFor more advanced troubleshooting, go to Home > Settings > Vehicle > Factory Data Reset to erase all settings. 

Can I get a radio code from a VIN number?

Call or visit the dealership and provide them with your VIN and radio serial number, along with proof of ownership. They’ll be able to retrieve the code for you. Some dealerships provide this service for free, while others might charge a small fee.