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How do I unlock my Honda Accord radio code?

A 5-digit radio code is typically required to reactivate your Honda Accord radio after a battery disconnect or unit replacement; you’ll usually find this code on the owner’s manual or a code card, and if you can’t locate it, your dealer can retrieve it using your VIN and the radio’s serial number.


Honda equips radios with a security feature that protects against theft. When the power is reset or a radio is replaced, the unit may prompt you for a code. This guide explains where to find the code, how to enter it correctly, and what to do if you’ve misplaced it or cannot access it.


Where to find the Honda radio code


Start with the places the code is most likely to be kept. If you can’t find the card, you’ll typically need to coordinate with a dealer for retrieval.



  • Code card or printed instructions in the owner’s manual or glove box. Many Honda owners receive a small card with the radio code when the car is new.

  • Dealer or Honda customer service records tied to your VIN. If the card is missing, contact the dealer and provide proof of ownership and the VIN.

  • Radio serial number (S/N) needed for a dealer lookup. The S/N is usually on a label on the radio chassis or accessible by a technician; the dealer can use it to retrieve the code if the card is unavailable.


Once you obtain the code, store it securely and avoid sharing it publicly. If you later replace the radio, the new unit may require its own code.


How to unlock the radio when you know the code


Follow these steps to enter the code correctly and restore normal radio operation.



  1. Turn the ignition to ON and power up the radio.

  2. Enter the 5-digit code using the radio’s keypad or the appropriate numeric controls.

  3. Submit the code by pressing the Enter/OK button (or the equivalent on your model).

  4. If the code is accepted, the radio will unlock and restore its saved settings and presets.

  5. Record the code somewhere secure for future reference in case the power is interrupted again.


Be mindful not to exceed the allowed number of incorrect attempts. On many models, repeated wrong codes trigger a cooldown period (often about an hour) before you can try again; if you’re stuck, contact your dealer for assistance.


What to do if you don’t have the code or can’t retrieve it


If the code card is missing or the dealership cannot locate the code in their records, use these steps to regain access or explore alternatives.



  1. Gather proof of ownership and your vehicle’s VIN. You may also need the radio’s serial number (S/N) if you know it.

  2. Contact your Honda dealership or Honda customer service. They can verify ownership and retrieve the code from their databases or guide you through the next steps.

  3. They may provide the current 5-digit code, reprogram the existing radio, or advise replacing the unit if necessary.


Costs and turnaround times vary by model and region. If reprogramming or replacement is required, you’ll likely need an in-person service visit.


Additional tips and caveats


Beyond locating the code, a few practices can reduce future headaches if the battery is disconnected or the radio is serviced.



  • Keep the code in a secure, retrievable location—ideally with your vehicle documents or in a password-protected note.

  • Avoid excessive power cycling or battery work that would require repeated code entry.

  • If you replace or upgrade the radio, discuss reprogramming with the dealer to ensure the new unit works seamlessly with your car’s security system.


In most cases, the easiest path is to locate the original code card or obtain the code directly from the dealer using your VIN and the radio’s serial number.


Summary


Unlocking a Honda Accord radio usually hinges on having the correct 5-digit code, which is typically found on a code card in the owner’s manual or obtainable from the dealer with your VIN and the radio’s serial number. If you have the code, enter it carefully to restore service; if not, contact your dealer or Honda customer service with proper ownership documentation to retrieve it or explore reprogramming options. With the right information, reactivating the radio should be straightforward and avoid unnecessary replacements.

How do I find my 4 digit radio code free?


You need to look in your glove compartment inside your service booklet. It is possible that the car radio code is written on one of the pages. Also in the user manual of the original car radio, you can find the code printed inside the booklet.



How to get the radio code for a Honda Accord?


As it goes over 955. I'm going to call them up say "Hey. I need a radio code this is the serial number I have." All right. Now if you guys are lucky. Sometimes in the glove.



What if I lost my Honda radio code?


If you forget your radio code, don't worry – you can reset it. In most cases, you can reset it using the radio's serial number. To do so, locate the serial number, then contact your Honda dealership or the manufacturer to get a new code. You may need to provide proof of ownership in order to get a new code.



What is the 4 digit code on a Honda radio?


A 4-digit Honda radio code is typically for the navigation system, not the radio, and is needed after a power loss. To get the code, you can either find it on a sticker in the glove box or owner's manual, or retrieve it online for free via the official Honda website using your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and radio serial number. If you need the serial number, you can often display it on the radio's screen by holding down preset buttons 1 and 6 while turning the radio on. 
This video demonstrates how to find the radio serial number on a Honda display: 1mCarnivautoYouTube · Jun 10, 2025
Ways to get the 4-digit code

  • Check the glove box or owner's manual: Look for a sticker or card labeled "Anti-Theft Radio Code" or similar. 
  • Visit the official Honda website: Use the official Honda radio code website and enter your VIN, radio serial number, and other required information. 
  • Go to a Honda dealer: A service center can look up the code for you. 

You can watch this video to learn how to retrieve your radio code using the official Honda website: 59sKIT'S Auto and Truck RepairYouTube · Sep 24, 2021
How to get the radio serial number
  • Turn the radio off. 
  • Press and hold radio preset buttons 1 and 6. 
  • Turn the radio back on while still holding the buttons. 
  • The serial number should appear on the display. 
  • Note: For some navigation systems, you may need to simultaneously press "MAP/GUIDE," "MENU," and "CANCEL" to access the diagnosis screen and find the navigation serial number. 


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.