If your Audi’s radio displays “SAFE,” you’ll need to enter the radio code to unlock it. This guide provides a simple, step-by-step process to help you do just that.
First, turn on your radio. You should see “SAFE” on the display, indicating it’s locked. Next, simultaneously press and hold both the “P.Scan” and “RBDS” buttons. Keep holding them until “1000” appears on the screen. It’s crucial to release both buttons once “1000” is displayed. Do not press any buttons again at this point, as inputting “1000” as the code will be incorrect.
Now, locate your Audi radio code card. This card should have been provided to you when you purchased the vehicle. It contains a four-digit code unique to your radio. Using the preset buttons numbered 1 through 4, enter your four-digit code. Each preset button corresponds to a digit in the code: preset 1 for the first digit, preset 2 for the second, and so on.
Once you’ve entered the correct code, press and hold the “P.Scan” and “RBDS” buttons again simultaneously. Hold them until “SAFE” reappears on the display. You can release the buttons once “SAFE” is shown. Your radio should unlock and become operational shortly after.
If you enter the wrong code, “SAFE” will flash and then remain on continuously. You can retry the unlocking process. The display will indicate the number of attempts remaining. However, if you enter an incorrect code a second time, the radio will lock for approximately one hour. Leave the radio on and the key in the ignition during this time. After the hour has passed, if the display turns off, you can attempt the unlocking procedure again. The cycle of two attempts followed by a one-hour lockout will continue.
Audi radio code card
Should you lose your radio code card, contact your local Audi dealer for assistance in retrieving it. They will be able to provide you with the correct code for your specific vehicle. Remembering or safely storing your radio code can save you time and frustration should your radio ever lock again.
