How to enter your BMW radio code

Why is my BMW radio asking for a code?

A BMW radio stops working the moment it is removed from the console, which makes it virtually useless to a thief. The only way to bring it back is the five-digit security code unique to that radio.

The same thing happens without any theft: a dead battery, electrical repairs, the radio being taken out, or the supply voltage dropping below a set level will all render it inoperable until voltage is restored and the code is entered.

You will meet it after any of these:

• The battery went flat, or was disconnected for work on the car
• The battery was replaced
• The radio fuse blew
• The car sat long enough for the battery to drain
• You bought the car and the previous owner never passed the code on

What the flashing red light and the warning tone mean

Two behaviours that are normal, not faults:

• When the ignition key is removed, the red anti-theft LED flashes continuously. That is the deterrent working.
• If any button on the radio is touched after the key is out, a warning tone sounds for five minutes, or until the ignition is turned on. The anti-theft indicator flashes at the same time.

How do I enter the code on a BMW radio?

Turn the radio on first. The word CODE appears on the display — the unit will not take a code before this.

Then enter your five-digit security code using the appropriately numbered buttons on the unit.

Before you disconnect the battery

If you have battery or electrical work coming up, find your code first. Far easier to have it in hand than to discover the radio is locked when the car comes back.

Need the BMW code itself?

Send us the details from your radio and we email your factory code back. Supplied by us directly — no third party.

Standard or express service — pricing on the order form.

Order your BMW radio code →