How to Take Anti-Theft Off a Car Radio
by Rachel Towns
Many vehicle manufacturers hope to prevent theft by installing car radio alarms, sometimes known as PassLocks or Theftlocks. The lock is programmed either through the cars ignition, actual radio or electrical wiring or fuses. Depending on your car's specifications, there are a couple of different ways to take off the alarm if it is causing problems allowing your vehicle to start.
Using the Vehicle Identification Number
Step 1
Locate the VIN number for the car by looking either on the title, driver's side door or front of the windshield.
Step 2
Open the User's Manual to the location informing you about your car radio and its contents. This area is usually "Information Systems" or something similar.
Step 3
Find the section that tells you which button, according to your vehicle's specifications, to hold down for 5 seconds until the screen flashes for you to input a code. (This button is usually a "Tone" button or "Auto Program" button.)
Step 4
Verify the VIN number on the screen and follow the manual's instructions on disarming the alarm on the radio. This will allow the radio to be used in other vehicles that do not have your car's VIN number.
Step 5
Re-arm the radio by repeating the steps provided in the manual and in-putting the VIN number back into the radio itself.
Cars with PassLock or Theftlock
Step 1
Use an original key (not a copied one) and insert it into the ignition.
Step 2
Turn the key into the "On" position. The "Theft System" light begins flashing on the dashboard.
Step 3
Leave the key in this position for 10 minutes until the "Theft System" light stops flashing and goes off.
Step 4
Flip the key into the "Off" position and leave it there for five seconds.
Step 5
Turn the car on and the engine will start, disarming the theft system and allowing your car to run.
References
Things You'll Need
- VIN number
- Original car key, which was made by the manufacturer
- User's Manual
Writer Bio
Rachel Towns specializes in topics related to politics and law. She holds a Bachelor of Science in paralegal studies from the University of South Florida.
