If your Honda’s radio or navigation system is locked after a battery disconnect or replacement, you’ll need an unlock code. Fortunately, retrieving your code is straightforward through Honda’s official website: https://radio-navicode.honda.com/. This guide will walk you through the process, from finding your VIN and serial number to obtaining the unlock code.
Locating Your Honda’s VIN
Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is a 17-digit code unique to your car. You can find it in several locations:
- Driver’s Side Windshield: Look at the base of the windshield on the driver’s side.
- Vehicle Registration: Your VIN is displayed on your vehicle registration documents.
- Insurance Documents: Check your insurance statement or proof-of-insurance card.
- Honda Financial Services Statement: If you financed your Honda, your VIN will be on your statement.
- Honda Correspondence: Look for your VIN on any surveys or official documents sent by American Honda.
Important Note: Valid VINs use numbers 0-9 and letters A-Z, excluding I, O, and Q. Ensure accuracy when entering your VIN to avoid errors. Double-check that you haven’t confused the number 0 with the letter O.
Finding Your Device’s Serial Number
Your device’s serial number is crucial for obtaining the unlock code. Here’s how to find it:
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Anti-theft ID Card or Glove Box Sticker: Check your glove box for an anti-theft ID card or a sticker containing the serial number. Dealers often place these during vehicle delivery.
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Device Display (2001 and Later Models): For models from 2001 onwards, the serial number can often be found directly on the device display. Refer to the instructions below for specific models if needed.
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Pre-2001 Models: For Honda models older than 2001, the serial number is located on the back of the device. You’ll need to schedule a service appointment with your local Honda dealer for assistance.
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2013-2014 Odyssey and Pilot: These models don’t require a radio/navigation code. Consult your owner’s manual for system initiation instructions.
Obtaining the Serial Number from the Device Display
For most models, retrieving the serial number involves a specific procedure:
General Instructions (Most Models):
- Turn the ignition to the ON position.
- Power on the radio/navigation unit. If “COdE” isn’t displayed, remove the backup fuse for one minute and repeat step 1.
- Turn off the device.
- Simultaneously press and hold radio preset buttons 1 and 6, then power on the device.
- The display will alternate between “U” followed by the first four digits of the serial number and “L” followed by the last four digits. Record all eight digits, ignoring the “U” and “L”.
2003-2007 Accord with Navigation:
- Turn the ignition to the ACC (I) position.
- Turn on the audio unit. Ensure “COdE” is displayed. If not, remove the backup fuse for a minute and retry.
- Turn off the audio unit.
- Press and hold the upper halves of the SEEK/SKIP and CH/DISC buttons while pressing and releasing the PWR/VOL knob.
- The display will alternate showing “U” with the first four digits and “L” with the last four digits of the serial number. Record all eight digits.
Retrieving Your Unlock Code via https://radio-navicode.honda.com/
Once you have your VIN and serial number:
- Visit https://radio-navicode.honda.com/ (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.
- Enter your VIN, serial number, phone number, zip code, and email address.
- You’ll receive a confirmation email with your unlock code. Enter this code into your radio/navigation system to unlock it. Refer to your owner’s manual for instructions on entering the code.
