How to Unlock Your Honda Radio Code

You can unlock a Honda radio by retrieving the unit’s 5-digit anti-theft code—found on an owner card or via Honda’s official code-retrieval tool using your VIN and the radio’s serial number—and entering it with the preset buttons; if the radio is locked after failed attempts, leave it powered on for about an hour until “CODE” reappears, or contact a Honda dealer for assistance. This article explains why radios lock, how to find the serial number, where to get the code, how to enter it, and what to do if you’re stuck.

Why Honda Radios Lock

Honda’s anti-theft system disables the radio after a battery disconnect or when power is interrupted. The unit then asks for a unique code to verify the vehicle owner. Many newer Hondas no longer require manual codes (the system re-authenticates automatically), but a significant number of models—especially from the early 2000s through mid-2010s—still do.

What You Need Before Retrieving the Code

Before attempting to unlock the radio, gather a few details that Honda’s systems or a dealer will use to verify ownership and locate the correct code.

• Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
• Radio serial number (varies by model/year)
• Your ZIP/postal code and phone number (as originally provided to Honda, if using the online tool)
• Proof of ownership and photo ID (if contacting a dealer)

Having these items ready speeds up the process and reduces the chance of delays or mismatched records when retrieving your code.

How to Find Your Honda Radio Serial Number

Your radio’s serial number is essential to retrieve the code. Most Hondas let you display it from the head unit without removing anything, but older units may require checking a label on the radio itself.

Without Removing the Radio (most 2001–present models)

Use the display method first; it works on many standard audio units and some navigation systems.

1. Turn the ignition to ON (II). Turn the radio off.
2. Press and hold the “1” and “6” preset buttons.
3. While holding them, press the Power/Volume knob to turn the radio on.
4. Note the serial number shown. It may appear as:
   

   • A 10-digit string (e.g., 3000123456), or
   • Two 4-digit groups labeled “U####” and “L####”—combine them (U####L####) as the 8-digit serial.

If the numbers scroll, take a clear photo so you capture the full sequence. This on-screen method covers most non-Display Audio Hondas from the early 2000s onward.

On Models with Navigation or Display Audio

Some navigation units and newer touchscreens use a diagnostics menu to show device details.

1. With ignition ON, press and hold “MENU,” “MAP/GUIDE,” and “CANCEL” together for several seconds to open the diagnostics screen (common on older Honda/Acura nav units), then look for “Unit Check” or “System Information” to find the radio/nav serial number.
2. On later Display Audio systems, check: Settings → System → About (or System Information) for serial/device numbers.
3. If no on-screen method works, proceed to the alternatives below.

Menu paths vary by model year; if these steps don’t match your interface, consult the owner’s manual for the exact route to “System Information.”

If the Display Only Shows “CODE” or You Can’t Access Menus

When you can’t display the serial number on-screen, try these options—starting with the easiest.

• Look for a code sticker: Check the glovebox, door jambs, or the owner’s manual packet for a white sticker labeled “Anti-Theft Radio Code” (often a 5-digit code) and sometimes a separate serial number sticker.
• Contact a Honda dealer: Dealers can read the serial/code (or request it from Honda) using your VIN and proof of ownership. For some models, they can retrieve the serial number electronically via the vehicle’s diagnostic port.
• Physical label on the radio: As a last resort, the radio must be partially removed to read the serial label on the chassis. Consider professional removal to avoid trim damage.

Most owners find success with the glovebox/manual stickers or a quick dealer lookup, avoiding the need to remove the unit.

How to Get the Radio Code

Once you have the radio serial number and VIN, use Honda’s official channels to obtain the code. Avoid third-party “code sellers,” which often use the same info and add unnecessary fees.

1. Use Honda’s official owner resources:
   

   • United States: Visit the Honda Owners site (owners.honda.com), navigate to Resources or Support, and select the Radio/Navigation Code tool. You’ll enter your VIN, radio serial number, ZIP code, and phone number/email associated with the vehicle record.
   • Canada and other regions: Check your country’s Honda owners site or contact the local Honda customer service line; some regions have their own code lookup pages.

2. If online retrieval isn’t available or fails, call or visit a Honda dealer with your VIN and photo ID. Many dealers provide the code as a courtesy for current owners; policies vary.
3. Record the 5-digit code securely. Store it in your phone’s notes and in the glovebox (not visible from outside).

Official Honda channels are the most reliable and secure method. If your vehicle record has changed owners, a dealer visit with proof of ownership may be required to release the code.

How to Enter the Honda Radio Code

Entering the code is straightforward and typically uses the preset buttons on the radio or touchscreen input on newer units.

1. Turn ignition to ON (II). Ensure the radio is powered on and displaying “CODE.”
2. Enter the 5-digit code using the preset buttons 1–6 (or via the touchscreen keypad on some models). For example, to enter 1-2-3-4-5, press buttons 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 in order.
3. If entered correctly, the unit should immediately restore audio function.
4. If you see “ERR,” “LOCK,” or the code is rejected:
   

   • Wait: Leave the ignition ON and the radio powered for about 60 minutes (some models up to 90) without interruption until “CODE” reappears, then try again.
   • Double-check the serial, VIN, and code from Honda to ensure they match your exact head unit.

Do not disconnect the battery or turn off the ignition during the lockout countdown, or the timer may reset. Persistent errors suggest a mismatched head unit (e.g., a replaced radio) or an incorrect code.

Troubleshooting and FAQs

These common scenarios can complicate recovery; here’s how to handle them.

• My code doesn’t work: Verify that the serial number corresponds to your current radio (not a previous unit). If the radio was replaced, you need the replacement unit’s serial.
• I bought a used Honda: Ask the seller for the code card or paperwork. If unavailable, retrieve the serial from the unit and contact Honda/dealer with your proof of ownership.
• How many tries before lockout? It varies by model. If you see “ERR” or “LOCK,” wait with the radio on (about an hour) until “CODE” returns, then re-enter carefully.
• Do newer Hondas need a code? Many 2013+ models with Display Audio reauthorize automatically after a battery disconnect. If yours still asks for a code, follow the steps above.
• Radio vs. navigation code: Some systems use a single code for the audio/nav unit. Follow the prompts on-screen; the retrieval process is the same.
• Should I pay third-party sites? Use Honda’s official tools or a dealer. Third parties can be inaccurate and may charge for data Honda provides to verified owners.

If problems persist, a dealer can verify the unit ID against Honda’s database and resolve mismatches that can’t be fixed remotely.

Regional Resources and Contacts

For official code retrieval and support, use your region’s Honda channels. Availability of online tools varies by country.

• United States: Honda Owners site (owners.honda.com) → Support/Resources → Radio/Navigation Code. American Honda Customer Support: 1-800-999-1009 (Mon–Fri, business hours PT).
• Canada: Visit Honda Canada Owners support pages or contact Honda Canada Customer Relations: 1-888-9-HONDA-9 (1-888-946-6329).
• Other regions: Check your country’s official Honda website for owner support or contact a local authorized Honda dealer.

If online retrieval isn’t available in your market, your local dealer is the fastest route; bring your VIN, registration, and photo ID.

Summary

To unlock a Honda radio, gather your VIN and the radio’s serial number (shown via the head unit or found on a sticker/label), then obtain the 5-digit code through Honda’s owner tools or a dealer. Enter the code using the preset buttons; if the unit is locked after failed attempts, leave it powered for about an hour until “CODE” reappears. Avoid third-party services, and store your code securely once recovered.

How do I unlock my Honda radio with code?

Enter the code using the radio preset buttons. So, if your Honda Accord audio system code is “33351,” you would press “3” three times, “5” once, and “1” once. This should unlock and reset your car’s audio system.

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. 

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.

How do I find my Honda radio code by VIN number?

Navigate to the Honda Radio-NAVICode website . Enter your VIN number, your information, the radio serial number, and whether your vehicle has two devices (meaning NAVI or not). When you click SUBMIT, you’ll get the Honda radio code.