Some Honda cars have a feature that prevents thieves from using the radio by displaying the word “Code”.
You’ll need your car’s VIN and serial number to get the radio code.
You’ll find the actual code on Honda’s website.
When your vehicle’s batteries have been disconnected, you might open your vehicle to find that your radio is asking for a code. It will typically show the word “code” in the display. Honda vehicles have this feature across different models and generations as a means of preventing thieves from easily using the radio.
First, you need to find your vehicle’s vehicle identification number (VIN) and serial number. The VIN can be found inside your owner’s manual or on the side of your glove box. It can also be found on the sticker that’s visible when the door is open. The VIN is also located under your vehicle’s windshield. Write this code down.
For 2001 and older Honda models, the serial number will be on the radio unit itself, while for 2002 onwards, the radio itself can provide the code for you by doing a few steps. Image source: Honda
Afterward, you’ll need the serial number of your radio. If your vehicle has been made from 2002 onwards, the radio itself can provide the code for you through the following steps:
Activate your vehicle’s electronics by turning your key in the ignition to the second position.
While holding down the numbers 1 and 6 at the same time, turn on the radio by pressing the power button. Your radio’s serial number will appear on the screen. Some models will have small radios that won’t be able to display the code entirely.
For Honda models from 2001 and older, the serial number will be on the radio unit itself. You will need to remove the radio to find the serial number. Hence, you should check the vehicle’s user manual to learn how to properly remove the radio.
Once you’ve gotten the VIN and serial number, go to Honda’s website where you can retrieve the radio code. Simply enter the VIN and serial number in the appropriate boxes and the website will display the code. Enter this code on your radio and it should function normally again.
Lisa Conant grew up in Canada around a solid contingency of gear heads and DIY motor enthusiasts. She is an eclectic writer with a varied repertoire in the automotive industry, including research pieces with a focus on daily drivers and recreational vehicles. Lisa has written for Car Bibles and The Drive.
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