How to Reset the Radio in a 2006 Honda Accord

You reset a 2006 Honda Accord radio by entering its 5-digit anti-theft code when “CODE” appears on the display; if you don’t have the code, retrieve the radio’s serial number (typically by holding preset buttons 1 and 6 while turning the radio on) and get the unlock code from Honda’s Radio-Navicode service or a dealer. Below are step-by-step instructions, including what to do if you see an error lockout, and how to handle navigation-equipped models.

What “reset” means on a 2006 Accord radio

On this generation Accord, “reset” usually means unlocking the anti-theft feature after the battery has been disconnected or the radio has lost power. The unit will prompt for a 5-digit code. There’s also a simple power-cycle (pulling the radio fuse or battery negative terminal) if the unit is frozen, but that will trigger the code request as well.

If you already have your anti-theft code

Use the following steps to enter the code and restore radio operation. You’ll need the 5-digit code printed on the Honda anti-theft card or glovebox sticker (often labeled “Anti-Theft” or “Radio Code”).

1. Turn the ignition to ACC or ON (engine off is fine).
2. Turn the radio on; it should display “CODE.”
3. Enter the 5-digit code using the preset buttons (1–6). Each press inputs the corresponding digit.
4. If entered correctly, the radio will power up and resume normal operation.

That’s all that’s required if you have the correct code: once accepted, your presets can be reprogrammed and audio functions will work immediately.

If you don’t have the code

If you’ve lost the code, you can retrieve it from Honda using the radio’s serial number and your vehicle information. Try the sticker first; if it’s missing, get the serial number from the radio without removal using a built-in display routine.

1. Check for a code sticker: Look inside the glove box, on the glove box walls or door, owner’s manual jacket, or under the ashtray/fuse panel covers for a 5-digit radio code label.
2. If no sticker, get the radio serial number from the display:
   

   • Turn ignition to ON, turn the radio OFF.
   • Press and hold preset buttons 1 and 6, then press the Power/Volume knob to turn the radio ON.
   • The screen will show an 8-digit serial number (some units flash two 4-digit groups—combine them).

3. Go to Honda’s official Radio-Navicode site (https://radio-navicode.honda.com) or the Honda Owners portal, and enter your VIN, the radio serial number, and owner verification info (such as ZIP/phone). You can also call a Honda dealer’s service department with the VIN and serial.
4. Once you have the 5-digit code, follow the entry steps in the section above.

With the code recovered, you can unlock the radio any time it loses power. Keep the code and serial noted in your phone or service records for future use.

Navigation-equipped 2006 Accord (if applicable)

On models with factory navigation, the audio unit and navigation system can require separate codes. If both systems lost power, you may need two unlock codes. The audio code process above still applies; the navigation unit’s serial can be obtained via its diagnostic menu.

1. Turn ignition to ON and power the navigation screen.
2. Press and hold MENU + MAP/GUIDE + CANCEL for a few seconds to open the diagnostic menu.
3. Select Unit Check/Detail to view the navigation unit’s serial number.
4. Use Honda’s Radio-Navicode site or your dealer with the VIN and serial to obtain the navigation code.
5. Enter each code when prompted by the respective system.

Once both codes are accepted, the audio and navigation functions will resume normal operation.

If the radio shows “Err” or is locked out

Multiple incorrect code attempts trigger an error lockout. You can clear it and try again without tools.

1. Leave the ignition in ACC/ON and the radio powered ON displaying “Err” (do not press buttons).
2. Wait about 1 hour continuously until the display returns to “CODE.”
3. Enter the correct 5-digit code carefully. If unsure, retrieve/verify the code first to avoid another lockout.

This passive reset clears the attempt counter; entering the correct code afterward restores normal function immediately.

Power-cycling a frozen radio (soft reset)

If the unit is unresponsive but not asking for a code, a power-cycle can reboot it. Note this will usually force the anti-theft code entry afterward.

• Pull the “Radio/Audio” fuse(s) for a few minutes, then reinstall, or
• Disconnect the negative battery terminal for 3–5 minutes, then reconnect.

Consult the owner’s manual for the precise fuse locations and ratings. Have your radio code ready before power-cycling to avoid being locked out without a code.

Tips to avoid future lockouts

A few preventative steps can save time the next time your battery is serviced or replaced.

• Record your 5-digit radio code and 8-digit radio serial number in your phone and glove box.
• Photograph any anti-theft stickers in the glove box for backup.
• Use a 12V memory saver when changing the battery to maintain power to the radio.
• If you buy a used Accord, ask the seller for the code card or documentation.

Keeping the code accessible and maintaining power during service can prevent unexpected lockouts after routine maintenance.

Summary

To reset a 2006 Honda Accord radio, turn it on and enter the 5-digit anti-theft code. If you don’t have the code, obtain the radio’s serial number (hold 1 and 6 while powering the unit) and retrieve the code from Honda’s Radio-Navicode site or a dealer. For navigation models, you may need a separate navigation code. If you see an error lockout, leave the radio on for about an hour to retry. Always keep your code recorded and consider a memory saver during battery work to avoid future lockouts.

How do I reset the radio on a 2006 Honda Accord?

To reset the radio code on a 2006 Honda Accord, you’ll first need to obtain the 5-digit radio code. If you have your owner’s manual, the code might be on a card or paperwork. If not, you can get it from a Honda dealer, often by providing your vehicle’s VIN and proof of ownership. Once you have the code, turn the ignition to the “AUX” position, turn on the radio, and enter the code using the radio preset buttons. If you enter the code incorrectly multiple times, the radio may display “ERROR” and you may need to disconnect the battery for a short period to reset the system. 
This video shows how to find the radio code and reset the radio in a 2003-2007 Honda Accord: 59sHow to AutomotiveYouTube · Apr 19, 2023
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
1. Locate the Radio Code:

• Check your owner’s manual: Look for a card or paperwork with the radio code, often in the booklet or a separate document. 
• Contact a Honda dealer: If you don’t have the code, provide your VIN and proof of ownership to the dealer. They can retrieve the code for you. 

2. Enter the Code:

• Turn the ignition to the “AUX” position (or turn the key to the “ON” position without starting the engine). 
• Turn the radio on. It should display “CODE”. 
• Enter the 5-digit code using the radio’s preset buttons (1-6). 
• The radio should then turn on and function normally. 

This video demonstrates how to reset the radio code by entering it using the preset buttons: 59sKIT’S Auto and Truck RepairYouTube · Sep 23, 2021
3. Error Handling:

• If the radio displays “ERROR,” it means you’ve entered the code incorrectly too many times. 
• To reset the system, disconnect the negative battery cable for a few minutes (10-15 minutes is recommended). 
• Reconnect the cable and try entering the code again. 

4. Important Notes:

• Be careful when entering the code, as multiple incorrect attempts can lock the radio.
• Store the code in a safe place for future use.
• Consider using a memory saver device when disconnecting the battery to prevent losing your radio code. 

How do I reset a Honda Accord radio?

If the radio displays and error (ERR) message, disconnect the black negative under hood battery cable for 1 to 3 minutes to reset the system). TURN THE RADIO BACK ON AND LOOK FOR THE WORD “CODE”. ENTER THE 5 DIGIT RADIO CODE. THE RADIO SHOULD COME BACK ON.

How do I reset my Honda radio after changing the battery?

To reset a Honda radio after a battery change, you’ll generally need to enter the radio’s anti-theft code. If the radio displays “CODE” or “ERR”, you’ll need the code associated with your specific radio. If you don’t have the code, you can try retrieving it from your glove compartment, vehicle handbook, or by contacting your Honda dealer. 
This video demonstrates how to find the radio code in the owner’s manual and enter it on a Honda CRV: 58sLive FreeYouTube · Feb 13, 2020
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

1. 1. Locate the radio code:
   • Check the glove compartment: The code might be on a sticker inside the glove compartment, according to RAC. 
   • Consult the owner’s manual: The code may be in your vehicle’s handbook. 
   • Contact your Honda dealer: They can retrieve the code if you provide the radio’s serial number and your vehicle’s VIN. 
2. 2. Enter the code (if needed): 
   • Turn the ignition switch to the accessory position (or ON position). 
   • Turn the radio on. 
   • If the radio displays “CODE”, use the radio’s preset buttons to enter the code, according to CarGurus.com. 
   • If the radio displays “ERR”, disconnect the battery’s negative terminal for a few minutes and try again, according to Rydell Honda. 
3. 3. If the radio doesn’t require a code:
   • Some newer Honda models will automatically recognize the radio after a battery change. 
   • Turn the ignition to the accessory position and turn the radio on. 
   • If the radio says “CODE” or “ERR”, try the code retrieval and entry steps above. 

This video shows how to reset a Honda radio by holding down the power button on the radio: 59severydayphilipYouTube · Oct 22, 2017
Important Notes:

• Be careful when disconnecting the battery. Ensure you turn off the ignition and remove the negative terminal first, says Greentec Auto. 
• If you still have trouble resetting the radio, consult your owner’s manual or contact your local Honda dealer for assistance. 
• Avoid entering the code incorrectly multiple times as this could lock the radio. 

How do I get my radio code for a 2006 Honda Accord?

So top number 1 2 3 35 let’s see one two three three five unlock boy yeah it works so you have a 2004 Honda Accord. And you have to put in a code in the radio. The code is in the glove.