Radio Codes

sallaw · Post by **sallaw** » 22 Nov 2006, 12:20

I have aquired a volvo850. The radio worked when I got it but now it keeps asking for the code and when we put the code in that both the prior owner and volvo dealer say is correct, it locks up. Anybody know how to fix this or what may be wrong?

Post by **billofdurham** » 22 Nov 2006, 12:36

Is the radio the factory fitted original or has it been replaced?

Take the radio out of the dash and make a note of the serial number on it. Ask your friendly dealer to confirm the code number using the radio serial number. This is a free service.

Bill.

Post by **Ozark Lee** » 22 Nov 2006, 13:19

Bill is right, the dealer can get it either by VIN or by the radio serial number itself. I bought a different radio for my car on eBay so my VIN will no longer work for the code.

It will also not take even a correct code if it says OFF. You have three chances to enter the code if the display says code but it has to be reset if the display says off.

Removing the radio so as to see the serial number is very easy. If you look at the face of the radio you will notice two rectangles that are a little over an inch tall and about 1/8" wide. Take your key and press the rectangles in and then let them release. At that point the rectangles pop out and form handles. Just pull the radio out using the tab handles. The serial number is usually on a sticker on the top of the radio. Look for any pen or sharpie writing as well. It is a common practice for people to write the code on the radio, especially if it is not original to the car.

...Lee

mrscullini · Post by **mrscullini** » 22 Nov 2006, 14:01

just went through the same thing this morning. had the code from the previous owner but it was not the correct code. pulled the unit from the dash and there was something "whited out" on the s/n label. scraped off the white out and low and behold, the code. held my breath for a second but it was the correct could. you may be just as lucky, pull the deck and check.

Sweet Wagon · Post by **Sweet Wagon** » 23 Nov 2006, 12:32

mrscullini wrote:just went through the same thing this morning. had the code from the previous owner but it was not the correct code. pulled the unit from the dash and there was something "whited out" on the s/n label. scraped off the white out and low and behold, the code. held my breath for a second but it was the correct could. you may be just as lucky, pull the deck and check.

Holy crap...

I'm just happy my mother in law owned the car before us and that my wife was smart enough to 'hide' the code in the owner's manual.

Post by **eroosa** » 25 Nov 2006, 16:18

I recently asked about codes and why it was needed for my fan replacement and I got the information I needed about that. I never touched anything (battery disconnect) prior to my radio displaying "code". I entered the code in the manual and it worked fine. I replaced the blower motor and then rehooked battery and once again entered the code and had no problem. In the last two days I have had to enter the code 3 out of the 4 times I drove the car. Why all of a sudden does the radio keep asking for the code?
Like I said, it asked for the code BEFORE I touched the battery. I really don't mind resetting the radio, but doing so on a daily basis is a bit much.

Post by **MadeInJapan** » 25 Nov 2006, 21:43

I suspect a bad connection to the battery. You are somehow connecting and disconnecting the battery unknowingly.