The Internet is filled with websites selling radio unlock codes, also known as radio antitheft codes. In some situations, purchasing a code may be merited, but not on a Honda. All Honda radios are equipped with an antitheft feature. If you replace your battery (or simply disconnect it), your radio will display "Error" or "Code." When this happens, it must be unlocked or reset.

  • The Internet is filled with websites selling radio unlock codes, also known as radio antitheft codes.
  • In some situations, purchasing a code may be merited, but not on a Honda.

Honda provides an option to obtain your radio antitheft code for free. This method applies to all Honda's manufactured after 2003 (except those equipped with navigation radio).

Look in your owner's manual booklet for your radio antitheft code. The code is printed on a small card (similar to a credit card) and included with your owner's manual. If you can find the code, skip to Step 5.

  • Look in your owner's manual booklet for your radio antitheft code.
  • The code is printed on a small card (similar to a credit card) and included with your owner's manual.

If you cannot find the code, you'll need to retrieve it.

Turn your ignition off to begin retrieving your radio code. Press and hold the "1" and "6" preset buttons on your radio. Turn your ignition on.

Write down the code displayed on your radio. The display will flash with two numbers: one beginning with a "U" and one beginning with a "L." Write down both numbers (beginning with the "U" number), and then disregard the "U" and the "L."

This number (eight digits) is your radio serial code. You'll need it to retrieve your radio antitheft code.

  • Write down the code displayed on your radio.
  • You'll need it to retrieve your radio antitheft code.

Contact Honda to retrieve your radio antitheft code. You'll need your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number, found beneath the driver's side of the windshield and your radio serial code. Honda's customer service number is (800) 999-1009. Provide the representative with the information to acquire your radio antitheft code.

You can also retrieve your radio antitheft code online for free at https://radio-navicode.Honda.com/

Turn your ignition to "Acc" or "On" to power on your radio. Enter your radio antitheft code using the preset buttons at the bottom of your radio. For example, if your antitheft code is "55512," you would press the "5" button three times, then the "1" button, then the "2" button. This will unlock and reset your Honda radio.

TIP

If your Honda is a 2002 or older model, you can enter the radio antitheft code in the same manner if you can find the code in your owner's booklet. However, if you cannot find the code, you'll need to visit a Honda dealer (the radio serial number display process does not work on 2002 or older models). Write down the antitheft code and the radio serial number and keep the codes in your glove box for future reference. Pass it on to the next owner when you sell or trade in the vehicle.