If you’ve had any work done on your Holden that disconnected the electrics, your radio is likely now displaying a lock screen prompting you to enter a security code.
Here’s how to get your radio back up and running:
Locating Your Holden Radio Code
The security code is a 4 or 6 digit sequence of numbers that you should be able to find on a card in the owner’s manual. Given these numbers need to be entered manually on the card or vehicle documentation, they can sometimes be missing.
If you can’t locate the numbers in the manual, try the following:
- Check your Holden’s service book to see if it has been written in there somewhere.
- Check other delivery documents you received with the vehicle along with the car keys.
- Contact whoever you purchased the car from and ask if they can provide the code. If you purchased from a Holden dealer, they are required to provide the code to you.
- Contact Holden directly and request the code. Holden will likely charge you for this service.
As a last resort:
- Try the last 4 digits of your VIN number
- Search online forums for lists of codes that may work on your radio
Entering the Code
Once you have located the code, follow the steps located in the owner’s manual. Here is a sample for those who don’t have access to their manual:
Radio P.I.N. (Personal Identification Number)
Your PIN. must be entered if the battery is disconnected. The P.I.N. is shown on the security card that was originally in the glovebox of the new car. Please keep the card in a safe but accessible place (not in your car), as this safety feature is provided as a theft deterrent.
To enter the P.I.N.:
- turn ignition to accessories and turn radio on (“1” or “CdE 1” appears)
- press the radio buttons in your P.I.N. order,
- the radio will shortly begin to play.
- If an incorrect P.I.N. is entered the number “2” or “CdE 2” appears on the display.
Holden Radio Code FAQs
Why do car radios have security codes?
The security code is set by the factory and cannot be changed. It is to discourage the theft of a car radio. The P.I.N., which is usually printed on your original Holden Security Card, must be entered before the power will turn off automatically after four minutes if you have turned the ignition key from accessories mode back to “off” position without disconnecting battery first.
How do I reset my Holden Commodore radio?
To reset a Holden Commodore radio, you will need to locate the security code. The P.I.N., which is usually printed on your original Holden Security Card, must be entered before the power will turn off automatically after four minutes if you have turned the ignition key from accessories mode back to “off” position without disconnecting battery first.
How do you enter the radio code on a Holden Astra?
Holden Astra radios can be reset by pressing the buttons in sequence. The security code would have been provided to you when your vehicle was first purchased and is usually located on a card that came with the car. The keypad will change from numbers to letters, which means you need to enter five digits into each number box before advancing onto next digit.
How do you remove a car radio?
Removing a radio is a semi-complex process that should be completed by a professional unless you know what you are doing, but here is a summary of the process. If you’re looking to change up the tunes in your ride, first disconnect the battery, then take out any screws or bolts around the trim and pop it off with your flathead screwdriver. Some cars may require you to pry up the dashboard covering as well – but if not just find slots for either side of stereo before inserting your radio removal tool into them and pressing until they click; unscrew all screws that are holding it in place while unplugging both ends of the radio from the vehicle’s wiring system.
