Where do I find my radio serial number?

The serial number is typically a unique identifier printed on a label attached to the device—usually on the back or bottom, or inside a battery compartment. For most car radios and home receivers, check the rear panel or behind a removable faceplate; for portable handheld models, look on the back, bottom, or under the battery; for digital radios, it may also appear in the Settings or About screen or on the original packaging. This guide covers the common locations so you can locate it quickly.

Common locations by device type

Use this quick reference to locate the serial number based on the kind of radio you own. Look first for a sticker labeled "Serial No." or "SN." If you see model numbers but no SN, you may need to check a separate label or the service menu.

• Car radios and head units: usually on a sticker on the back of the unit, or behind the detachable faceplate; you may also find it on the label inside the glove box or in the owner's manual.


• Home stereo receivers and AV equipment: typically on the back panel, near the rear input/output connectors, with model and batch information.


• Portable handheld radios (walkie-talkies, portable CBs): commonly on the back or bottom, or inside the battery compartment; some models have the SN printed on the housing.


• Ham radios and amateur equipment: often on the back panel or inside the battery compartment; some models include SN in the service information label.


• SiriusXM, satellite radios, and streaming receivers: the SN is usually on the device label on the bottom/back or on the packaging; you may also find it in the account portal.

If you can't locate the serial number after checking these areas, consult the device's manual, the original packaging, or the retailer's or manufacturer's support site for guidance. They can help you identify the correct SN and register the device if needed.

Additional steps: checking software and documentation

On many digital radios, you can view the serial number by navigating to Settings, About, or System Information within the device's menu. For devices still in the box, the serial number is printed on the box label, the included warranty card, or the sticker on the outer packaging. If the radio is installed in a vehicle or integrated system, the SN may be listed in the vehicle's infotainment system or service portal.

Summary

The serial number is a key identifier used for warranty, service, and registration. Start by looking for a label on the back, bottom, or inside the battery compartment of your radio, then check the packaging, user manual, and the device’s settings if needed. If you still can’t locate it, contact the manufacturer or retailer for precise directions.

How do I find my radio serial number?

You can find a radio serial number by checking the vehicle's infotainment system menu, looking for a sticker on the radio unit itself (sometimes requiring removal), finding an anti-theft ID card in the owner's manual or glove box, or consulting with a dealership. For some models, you can also display the number on the screen by entering a specific button combination when the radio is off, such as holding buttons 1 and 6 while turning it on. 
This video shows how to find the radio serial number in some car models: 36sRatchets And WrenchesYouTube · Jan 23, 2014
Methods to find the serial number
This video demonstrates how to get the radio serial number from the car's display: 1mCrazy Honda ChrisYouTube · Feb 24, 2023
Without removing the radio

• Check the infotainment system: Look for options like "System," "Device Information," or "Audio Unit" in the radio's menu to display the serial number. 
• Use a button combination: For some car brands like Honda, you can turn the radio off, hold preset buttons 1 and 6, and then turn the radio on. The serial number will appear on the screen. 
• Consult the owner's documentation: The anti-theft ID card that came with the vehicle may have the serial number written on it. This is often stored in the glove box or the owner's manual. 
• Use a diagnostic tool: A professional can retrieve the number using diagnostic tools connected to the OBD port. 

This video explains how to access the radio serial number on certain car models: 59sBrian BalatbatYouTube · Jun 4, 2021
By removing the radio

• Locate the sticker: Carefully remove the radio from the dashboard and look for a sticker on the back or side of the unit. The serial number will be printed on it. 

Contact a professional

• Visit a dealership: A dealership can retrieve the serial number for you using specialized equipment and may be able to provide the radio code as well. 
• Contact the manufacturer: If you have your VIN, you can contact the manufacturer and provide them with the necessary vehicle and radio information. 

What if I lost my radio code?

If you have lost your car radio code, you should: Contact the vehicle manufacturer: Some carmakers will provide the radio code for free. Speak with the dealership that originally sold the vehicle: Dealerships may have access to radio codes and may give you this information for free or a small fee.

Where do I find my radio ID number?

You can find your radio ID by tuning to channel 0 on the radio, checking the device's settings menu, or looking for a sticker on the back or bottom of the unit. If those methods don't work, check the original packaging or the manufacturer's website, as the ID is often displayed on an external tuner or within a paired app. 
Methods to find your radio ID
Using the radio itself

• Tune to channel 0: On most satellite radios, changing the channel to "0" will automatically display the radio ID on the screen. Some systems may show the ID by alternating with another code. 
• Access the settings menu: Go to your device's "Settings" or "Diagnostics" menu. Look for options like "Radio ID," "ESN," "Serial Number," or "About" to find the ID displayed there. 
• Press a specific button: Some older models may require you to press and hold a specific button, like "SAT," "ESN," or "Menu," to make the ID appear. 

Physical inspection

• Check the device: Look for a sticker on the back or bottom of the radio unit itself. 
• Check the original packaging: The radio ID may be printed on the box the device or tuner came in. 

Using a connected device or app

• Check a paired app: If you've paired the device with an app like SiriusXM (as shown in the SiriusXM example), the ID may be listed under the "Devices" section. 
• Check the online account: Log in to your account on the manufacturer's website, as the radio ID is often listed under your active subscriptions or devices. 

How to find radio serial number without removing radio?

The Radio/Navigation Code and the device unit's serial number are listed on the anti-theft ID card that comes with the vehicle. The card is usually placed in the glove box at the time of delivery.