If your Honda’s radio or navigation system is locked after a battery disconnect or replacement, you’ll need a code to unlock it. Fortunately, you can obtain this code for free through Honda’s official website: Www.radio-navicode.honda.com Free. This guide provides a step-by-step process to retrieve your unlock code without needing a trip to the dealership.
Locating Your Honda’s VIN
The first piece of information you’ll need is your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This 17-digit code acts as your car’s unique identifier. You can typically find your VIN in the following locations:
- Driver’s Side Windshield: Look at the base of the windshield on the driver’s side.
- Vehicle Registration: Your VIN is prominently displayed on your vehicle registration documents.
- Insurance Documents: Check your insurance statement or proof-of-insurance card.
- Honda Financial Statements: If you financed your Honda, your VIN will be on your statements.
- Honda Correspondence: Look for your VIN on any surveys or official communication from American Honda.
Important Note: Valid VINs use alphanumeric characters (A-Z and 0-9), excluding the letters I, O, and Q. Double-check for accuracy to ensure you haven’t transposed numbers or mistaken the letter O for the number 0.
Finding Your Device’s Serial Number
Next, you’ll need the serial number of your locked radio or navigation unit.
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2013-2014 Odyssey/Pilot: These models do not require an unlock code. Refer to your owner’s manual for system initiation instructions.
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Pre-2001 Models: The serial number is located on the back of the device. Contact your local Honda dealer for assistance.
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2001 and Later Models: For most models, you can find the serial number using the device display or an anti-theft ID card located in the glove box. Some dealers may also place a sticker with the serial number inside the glove box.
Obtaining the Serial Number from the Display (Most 2001+ Models)
For many models, retrieving the serial number involves a specific button sequence:
- 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 off the device.
- Simultaneously press and hold the preset buttons 1 and 6, then turn the device back on.
- The display will alternate between two screens: one starting with “U” showing the first four digits of the serial number, and the other starting with “L” showing the last four digits.
- Record all eight digits, ignoring the “U” and “L.”
Serial Number for 2003-2007 Accord with Navigation
These models have a slightly different procedure:
- Turn the ignition to the ACC (I) position.
- Turn on the audio unit. Ensure the display shows “COdE.” If not, remove the backup fuse for one minute and repeat step 1.
- Turn off the audio unit.
- Press and hold the top halves of both the SEEK/SKIP and CH/DISC buttons, then press and release the PWR/VOL knob.
- The display will toggle between two screens showing the first four digits (preceded by a “U”) and the last four digits (preceded by an “L”) of the serial number.
- Record all eight digits.
Using www.radio-navicode.honda.com Free
Once you have your VIN and serial number, visit www.radio-navicode.honda.com free to get your unlock code. Enter your information in the “Get Codes” tab. The website operates Monday-Friday 6 AM to 11 PM CDT, Saturdays 6 AM to 8:30 PM CDT, and Sundays 6 AM to 11 PM CDT. You will be asked for your phone number, zip code, and email address for confirmation. Enter the information accurately to receive your free code and unlock your Honda’s radio or navigation system. Using this free service through Honda’s official site ensures a quick and legitimate solution to regain access to your in-car entertainment.