1. The radio code card
Many cars came with a small security card in the handbook wallet. Check the glovebox and the service book pockets.
2. A sticker in the car
Some owners or dealers wrote the code inside the glovebox, on the handbook or on the radio itself.
3. Your main dealer
Dealers can often supply the code with your V5C and ID. It may cost a fee and take a few days, and only works if the radio is the original.
4. Manufacturer apps and portals
Some brands (for example Renault on newer cars) offer codes through owner apps or portals. Look on your manufacturer’s owner website.
5. Try a bypass
A few older Jaguar Alpine radios unlock by holding SEEK ▶, PTY and A.MEM together. It’s worth a try before paying.
Beware “free code generators”
Downloads and apps promising any code free are often wrong or unsafe. A wrong guess can lock your radio for hours.
When a paid code is quicker
If the card is gone and you don’t want to wait for a dealer, our free check tells you in seconds whether we can do your radio — and most codes arrive instantly for £9.99.