Radio Removal w/o Code?

[daley-double]

I am looking to replace my center dash - with the 2 center vents & dials for heat etc (Thanks to info I found from you guys at this site!) and need to remove the radio to do it. I'm a bit confused - if I take the radio out and don't start the car or put the key in the ignition, can I put it all back together without needing a "radio code?"

Thanks for your help!

[partylover]

yes

[theproletariat]

Actually, it depends.

Older radios need you to enter the code whenever power is disconnected or the radio is removed. This was the case with the factory radio in my 2000 beetle. Newer radios are smarter, and talk to the engine computer to learn what car they're in. These radios only need the code if you move them from one car to another.

Unfortunately I don't know what year they started putting in these smarter radios, so I can't tell you if you're okay or not. I'd stay on the safe side and have the code handy regardless -- the dealer will give it to you for free if you can't find it in your owner's manual.

[Crazy_MoFo]

Originally Posted by daley-double

I am looking to replace my center dash - with the 2 center vents & dials for heat etc (Thanks to info I found from you guys at this site!) and need to remove the radio to do it. I'm a bit confused - if I take the radio out and don't start the car or put the key in the ignition, can I put it all back together without needing a "radio code?"

Thanks for your help!

Look for a sticker(Tag) around in the trunk where the spare tire is(if you can't find it it might also be hidding under the spare, it has a bunch of VW mumble jumble but it should also have the Radio Code.

[mdntblu]

Originally Posted by daley-double

I am looking to replace my center dash - with the 2 center vents & dials for heat etc (Thanks to info I found from you guys at this site!) and need to remove the radio to do it. I'm a bit confused - if I take the radio out and don't start the car or put the key in the ignition, can I put it all back together without needing a "radio code?"

Thanks for your help!

What is this mod with the 2 center vents and dials? I want to see it. Because the vent on the left side of the center dash has the little wheel broken from it and so maybe this will fix my issue.

[SMG]

Unplug the battery -> Pull the radio -> Do whatever -> Install radio -> Plug in battery.