Last Updated on: October 7, 2022
A Kenwood radio is a great entertainment feature in any car for an immersive listening experience. To add, it also has top-notch security features, which will give you peace of mind.
But…
It can also be a headache, especially when the time comes that it asks for a Kenwood security code. This can be frustrating for those who are clueless about what to do. Luckily, it has an easy fix. Read on, and we’ll talk about how to unlock a Kenwood car radio.
Why Is My Kenwood Radio Locked?
The most common reason why Kenwood owners will find their radio locked is that it has been disconnected from the power supply. This could happen when the battery drains and after you change it. Even when the car undergoes routine maintenance, the radio will ask for a security code upon activation.
Restoring the power will not immediately restore the radio functionality. You will need to enter the security code.
The unlock code is a unique string of numbers or letters that can deter theft. It is a great security feature. Stolen radios are unusable unless the user enters the security code.
How To Unlock Kenwood Car Radio
Is your Kenwood car stereo asking for a radio code? Do not panic. It takes only a few minutes to fix the problem. Below are some of the best things to do:
1. Find The Unlock Code
The first thing to do is to look for the security code. Here are some of the most common places where you should look.
Glovebox
In most cars, the radio security code will be printed on a sticker. You can often find it on the side of the glove box compartment.
Owner’s Manual
If you cannot find it in the glovebox, the next thing to do is to look for the code in the manual. It will be printed on one of the pages. Nonetheless, not all manuals will include the printed code. Most people store their manuals in the vehicle, so it is not a safe place to print the security code.
Manufacturer’s Website
Some car manufacturers will have a website that displays the code you will need to unlock Kenwood radio. However, you cannot easily retrieve the codes. You must pass through security verification, which will ensure that you are the rightful owner of the radio that you are trying to unlock.
Before you can retrieve the code, you must provide the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). It is a unique string of codes with 17 characters. You might also be asked for the serial number. The website can also request your phone number and email address.
Once you have given the right details, the code to unlock Kenwood radio will be sent to your email.
Dealer/Manufacturer
Aside from the website, you can also retrieve the unlock code straight from a dealer. Call them, and they will request details before they can give you the security code. You will also be asked to provide proof of ownership.
Previous Owner
If you are using a second-hand car or Kenwood radio, you might want to ask the original owner if he or she knows the security code.
2. Input The Details
Now that you know the Kenwood radio code, it is time to input it. Entering the security code differs on various Kenwood radio models. You can use the tuner or volume knobs. Meanwhile, newer Kenwood models will require pressing several buttons at once.
3. Send the Radio Back
If you have done everything but your Kenwood radio is still locked, you might want to send it back to the manufacturer. In turn, they will reset the security code of the car radio themselves.
The Most Common Kenwood Security Codes
You can also try your luck and input the most common unlock codes in Kenwood car stereos. They might not always work, but there is no harm in trying.
Try the security code KCAR. Another common code is 3015. 1234 is another code that can unlock Kenwood stereos.
Many Kenwood models have the same security codes, so you might end up lucky trying those that have been reported to be amongst the most common to unlock your car radio.
Dealing with a Security Code Bug
A reported bug has been hounding some users. If you have a Kenwood model experiencing security code handling problems, it means that the code is not stored properly.
If you have a Kenwood radio with a bug, decrease the value of the third number by one point. For instance, if it is 1234, make it 1224.
Pro Auto Thought: Know the basics of removing your car stereo safely most especially if your unit is a branded one — How To Remove Pioneer Radio.
Watch This!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I reset my Kenwood car radio?
To reset the Kenwood stereo, start by making sure that it is turned on. Do the following afterward: remove the faceplate from the stereo, wait at least five seconds, look for the small reset button on the unit, use a pointed tool to press it, and hold the button for five seconds.
Why is my Kenwood radio asking for a security code?
If your Kenwood radio is requiring a security code, then it means that it has been disconnected from the power supply. This often happens when the battery drains or as a part of preventive maintenance. More so, the radio code is also a security feature against radio theft. It prevents other people from using the radio if they do not know the code to unlock the unit.
What happens if you input the wrong security codes?
When you input too many wrong security codes, the radio will be locked. It will prevent you from entering more codes. You will need to turn off the radio or reset it so you can enter more codes.
Conclusion
To unlock Kenwood radios, start by finding the security code. Then, input this on the radio using a Kenwood remote or the controls on the face of the unit. If you cannot find the Kenwood radio code, try some of the most common, such as KCAR.
Is there anything else that you would like to add above? Let us know in the comments!