If your Honda’s radio or navigation system is locked after a battery disconnect or failure, you’ll need a code to unlock it. Fortunately, you can obtain this code for free using Honda’s official online resource: radio-navicode.honda.com. This guide will walk you through the process of finding your vehicle information and retrieving your unlock code.
Locating Your Honda’s VIN
The first piece of information you’ll need is your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This 17-digit code is unique to your car and can be found in several locations:
- Driver’s Side Windshield: Look at the base of the windshield on the driver’s side.
- Vehicle Registration: Your VIN is printed on your vehicle registration document.
- Insurance Documents: Check your insurance statement or proof-of-insurance card.
- Honda Financial Services Statement: Your VIN will be on your financing statement if applicable.
- Honda Correspondence: Look for your VIN on any official documents or surveys sent by American Honda.
Important Note: Valid VINs use numbers 0-9 and letters A-Z, excluding I, O, and Q. Double-check for accuracy, ensuring numbers and letters aren’t transposed and that you haven’t mistaken the number 0 for the letter O.
Finding Your Device Serial Number
Next, you’ll need the serial number of your radio or navigation unit.
- 2013-2014 Odyssey or Pilot: These models don’t require a code. Consult your owner’s manual for system initiation instructions.
- Pre-2001 Models: The serial number is on the back of the device. You’ll need to visit a Honda dealer for assistance.
- 2001 and Later Models: Check these locations:
- Anti-theft ID Card: This card, often found in the glove box, may contain the serial number.
- Glove Box Sticker: Some dealers place a sticker with the serial number inside the glove box.
- Device Display: For many models, you can retrieve the serial number directly from the device display. See the instructions below for specific models.
Obtaining the Serial Number from the Display (Most Models)
- Turn the ignition to the ON position.
- Power on the radio/navigation unit. If the display shows “COdE,” proceed to the next step. If not, remove the backup fuse for one minute and repeat step 1.
- Turn the device OFF.
- Simultaneously press and hold the radio preset buttons 1 and 6, then power the device ON.
- The display will alternate between two screens: one starting with “U” followed by the first four digits of the serial number, and another starting with “L” followed by the last four digits. Record all eight digits, ignoring the “U” and “L”.
Obtaining the Serial Number: 2003-2007 Accord with Navigation
- Turn the ignition to the ACC (I) position.
- Turn the audio unit on. Ensure the display shows “COdE.” If not, remove the backup fuse for a minute and repeat step 1.
- Turn the audio unit off.
- Press and hold the upper halves of the SEEK/SKIP and CH/DISC buttons. While holding them, press and release the PWR/VOL knob.
- The display will alternate between two screens showing the first four digits (preceded by “U”) and the last four digits (preceded by “L”) of the serial number. Record all eight digits.
Retrieving Your Free Unlock Code
Once you have your VIN and serial number, visit radio-navicode.honda.com during their operating hours (Monday-Friday 6 am-11 pm CDT, Saturday 6 am-8:30 pm CDT, Sunday 6 am-11 pm CDT). Click the “Get Codes” tab and enter your information. You’ll also need to provide your phone number, zip code, and email address to receive a confirmation number. Following these steps, you can quickly and easily unlock your Honda’s radio or navigation system for free.
