Most car radios are manufactured with an anti-theft unlock code built in. The radio will automatically lock if it is removed from the harness in the car or if the car battery is disconnected or dies. The radio will be inoperable unless the correct unlock code is entered. It is possible to enter the unlock code into the radio yourself instead of taking your car to a dealership.
Find your car radio's unlock code. There are two ways to get the code. The first is to check in your owner's manual packet for the anti-theft radio card. The card will have your radio's serial number and unlock code printed on it. The second method is to call your car manufacturer directly with the radio's serial number and proof that you own the car. The serial number is either in the owner's manual or on the bottom of the radio. They will provide you with the unlock code once they verify that you own the car.
Insert your key into the ignition and turn it to the "ON" position. The radio will power up because the "ON" position turns on the car's electrical system. The word "LOCKED" or "CODE" will appear on the radio's screen.
Push the "Tune" button on your radio. The screen will go blank. Push the "Tune" button again to scroll through the numbers.
Press and hold the button for a couple of seconds when you reach the correct number. The number will be displayed on the screen. Repeat the process until all the numbers for the unlock code are entered. Your car radio will unlock automatically if the code was entered correctly.
