Honda Accord Radio Code: How to find the 5-digit unlock code

The 5-digit Honda Accord radio code isn’t a universal number—it’s unique to each vehicle. You can usually find it on a small sticker in the car or in the owner’s paperwork, or retrieve it using your VIN and the radio’s serial number via Honda’s official code-retrieval tools or a dealership. Below is a clear guide to locate the code and get your audio system unlocked safely.

Why Honda uses a 5-digit radio code

Honda’s anti-theft feature disables the audio unit after a power loss—such as a dead battery or replacement—until a unique 5-digit code is entered. This deters theft and protects the hardware. Many late-model Hondas will auto-verify after battery reconnection if the original radio remains in the car, but older models and some trim levels still require manual code entry.

Where you can find the code in the car or paperwork

Before seeking online or dealer help, check these common physical locations. Honda often provided the code on a small sticker or card at delivery.

• Owner’s manual packet: Look for a “Radio Code” or “Anti-Theft ID” card or label tucked into the maintenance booklet.
• Glove box: Check the inner walls or door for a small white sticker. It may list a 5-digit code and, separately, a longer serial number.
• Trunk/door jamb: Some vehicles have a radio code sticker near the trunk hinge, spare-tire well, or driver’s door jamb.
• Service invoices: Past dealership service records sometimes include the code if the radio was unlocked previously.

If you find a sticker with two numbers, the shorter 5-digit one is typically the unlock code; the longer sequence is the device serial number. If nothing turns up, proceed to retrieve the serial number from the unit.

How to get your radio’s serial number

You’ll need the radio’s serial number to retrieve the code online or from a dealer. The steps vary by radio type and model year.

Method A: Display the serial without removing the radio (most 2001+ standard radios)

Use this method if your Accord has a standard (non-navigation) Honda audio unit from the early 2000s onward.

1. Turn the ignition to ON (II). Ensure the radio is off.
2. Press and hold preset buttons 1 and 6 simultaneously.
3. While holding them, press the power button. An 8-digit serial will appear (often in two 4-digit halves, e.g., “U123” and “L4567,” which combine).
4. Write down the full serial exactly as shown.

If nothing displays, repeat the sequence slowly. If your screen shows only “CODE,” the unit may require removal for the label on its chassis.

Method B: Navigation or Display Audio units

For Accords with factory navigation or newer touch-screen systems, the serial can usually be found in the on-screen menus.

1. Turn ignition to ON and power the unit.
2. Open the Settings/Info menus and look for “System,” “Device Information,” or “Version” screens.
3. Locate and record the “Radio” or “Audio unit” serial number (navigation units may also list a separate NAV serial).
4. If menus are inaccessible, consult the owner’s manual for your model year’s specific path.

Menu names vary by year. If the device won’t boot to menus, you may need a dealer scan tool or physical removal to read the label.

Method C: Older units or if screen methods fail

If the display won’t show a serial and there’s no sticker, a physical check may be required.

1. Disconnect the battery negative terminal for safety.
2. Carefully remove trim and the radio to access the manufacturer label on the unit’s side or top.
3. Record the serial number exactly as printed.
4. Reinstall the unit and reconnect the battery.

If you’re not comfortable removing interior trim, a dealership or reputable audio shop can retrieve the serial in minutes.

Use Honda’s official tools or your dealer to get the code

With your VIN and radio serial number in hand, you can request the unlock code through Honda’s systems.

1. Go to Honda’s radio code portal (in the U.S., https://radio-navicode.honda.com or via the Honda Owners site). In some regions, use your local Honda website or app.
2. Enter the 17-character VIN, the radio/audio serial number, and requested owner info (such as ZIP/postal code, phone, and email).
3. Submit and note the 5-digit radio code provided. Keep it with your records.
4. Enter the code on the radio when prompted. Most units unlock immediately after correct entry.

If the site doesn’t recognize your details or you’re outside supported regions, contact a Honda dealer. They can verify ownership and provide the code using the VIN and serial.

If you still can’t get the code

When online retrieval isn’t possible, these steps typically resolve the issue.

• Visit a Honda dealership with photo ID, vehicle registration/title, and the VIN; they can pull the code from Honda’s database.
• If the radio was replaced, ensure you have the serial for the current unit, not the original.
• For fleet, salvage-title, or imported vehicles, be prepared for additional ownership verification.

Dealers may charge a small fee for code lookup or serial extraction, but most can complete the process quickly.

Tips, quirks, and warnings

These practical notes help avoid lockouts and repeat trips.

• Lockout behavior: After too many wrong attempts (often 10), the display may show “LOCK” or “Err.” Leave the ignition ON and the radio powered for about an hour to clear, then try again.
• Model-year differences: Many 2013+ Hondas auto-verify with the vehicle and don’t need manual code entry after a basic battery disconnect. If yours asks for a code anyway, follow the steps above.
• Keep it handy: Store the 5-digit code in your phone’s notes or with the spare key. It saves time after future battery work.
• Power cycling: Ensure solid battery voltage when entering the code; low voltage can interrupt the process.

Following these tips reduces the chance of lockouts and ensures a smooth unlock on the first try.

Summary

There is no single 5-digit Honda Accord radio code—each vehicle’s code is unique. First, look for a sticker or card in the glove box or owner’s packet. If it’s not there, retrieve the radio’s serial number (via the 1+6+Power method, on-screen menus for navigation/touch units, or from the unit label), then use Honda’s official code-retrieval site or a dealer to obtain the correct 5-digit code and unlock your radio.

How to get 5 digit Honda radio code?

Your vehicle came with a unique four or five-digit radio reset code, and you can usually find it on a sticker labeled “Anti-Theft Radio Code.” This sticker is most usually found in one of the following places: Glovebox. Center Console. Auto Service History Log.

How do I get my Honda Accord radio code?

Finding Your Honda Accord Audio System Code
In your owner’s manual, check the inside front cover and the section about the radio or audio system. The code is often printed on a small card and included with your manual. Sometimes, the code is on a sticker inside the glove box.

What is the code 5 on a Honda Accord?

5 – Replace engine coolant. 6 – Replace rear differential fluid (if equipped).

Can I get a radio code from a VIN number?

If you’re having no luck finding the code on your own, your car dealership can usually help. 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.