How to Reset the Radio Code on Vehicles

by Contributing WriterUpdated June 12, 2017

Vehicles stereo systems, such as the one in the Vehicles incorporate a theft-deterrent feature that allows you to lock your radio with a four-digit code, requiring the user to enter the code if battery power is ever disconnected. If you previously locked your radio using the theft-deterrent feature, you may wish to reset the unlock code to a different number. In order to reset the code, you must first deactivate the theft-deterrent feature using the current radio unlock code, and then reactivate the theft-deterrent feature using the new code.

Under The Hood:

 How to Reset the Radio Code on a Honda Accord

Write down the VIN number of your vehicle. The VIN number is located on the driver side of the vehicle just behind the windshield at the base of the windshield on the dash of your Accord.

Write down the serial number of your radio.

Contact Honda. You can contact Honda to reset your radio using the company's automated service on its radio reset website (see Resources).

 How to Reset the Radio Code on a 2002 Saturn SC2

Deactivate Theft-Deterrent Feature

Place the key in the ignition and switch it to the "RUN" setting.

Press the volume control knob in to turn the stereo off, if it is not already off.

Press the number "5" and "6" button on the radio simultaneously for approximately five seconds until four dashes ("- - - -") appear on the display screen. You must then enter the four-digit unlock code that you originally assigned to your vehicle. If you are unsure of the unlock code, contact your local GM retailer.

Press "SEEK/SCAN" upward to set the first number.

Press "SEEK/SCAN" downward to set the second number.

Press "TUNE" upward to set the third number.

Press "TUNE" downward to set the fourth number.

Verify that the code on the display screen matches your stereo unlock code, then press the "AM-FM" button. The letters "REP" will display on the screen. Enter your code a second time for confirmation. "OFF" will appear on the screen, confirming you successfully deactivated the theft-deterrent feature.

Reactivate Theft-Deterrent Feature

Create a new four-digit radio unlock code and write it down. Place this number in a secure location and not in your vehicle.

Place the key in the ignition and switch it to the "RUN" setting.

Press the volume control knob in to turn the stereo off, if it is not already off.

Press the number "5" and "6" button on the radio simultaneously for approximately five seconds until four dashes ("- - - -") appear on the display screen.

Press "SEEK/SCAN" upward to set the first number of the new code.

Press "SEEK/SCAN" downward to set the second number of the new code.

Press "TUNE" upward to set the third number of the new code.

Press "TUNE" downward to set the fourth number of the new code.

Press the "AM-FM" button. The letters "REP" will display on the screen. Enter your code a second time for confirmation.

Press "AM-FM" once more and "SEC" will appear on the screen, confirming that your stereo is secure.

 How to Reset the Radio Code in a Volvo

Run the radio

Turn off all drains on the battery, such as daytime running lights, heat or AC, or inside lights. Close all doors.

Turn off the radio and car.

Turn on the radio, then insert the key in the ignition and turn it to the first position, marked "ACC."

Leave the radio on for two hours. It will automatically reset during this time, and flash “Code” again to show that it is ready to accept a code again.

Remove a Fuse

Find the fuse map in the User's Manual for your Volvo. The radio fuse will be listed on this map.

Turn on the radio, then insert the key in the ignition and turn it to the first position, marked "ACC."

Open the hood of your car and remove the radio fuse.

Replace the fuse. If the radio is reset, it will flash “Code” again to show that it is ready to accept a code again.

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