security code problem with Vauxhall Corsa

Dec 09, 2003 7 Replies

Hello,



I have a 2nd hand Corsa and I had to change the battery. Now the Vauxhall radio is asking for a security code. I found a bit of paper with a code number on it prefixed with "S" and figured out how to set the number. Then I pressed the "auto search" button and it cleared the number and decremented a part of the display that was saying "10". I tried once more so it's now saying "8".



I'm guessing (as I have no manual for the radio) that I've got 10 attempts to get it right. But the code I have is for the same car - the fax from "Vauxhall Security Data Systems" has the correct chassis number.



Any ideas? I'll try the Vauxhall garage if nobody points out a stupid mistake.



Thanks.



Peter


The number prefixed with an S is the key number.

The serial number has to be taken from the radio and faxed off at the same time as the vehicle chassis number to obtain the radio code. If only the chassis number is sent, you will just get the key number and immobiliser security code back (this is because radios get changed under warranty and may not be fitted with the original unit it left the factory with).

You do get 10 attempts to put in the right code. Be warned that the length of time you have to wait before you can enter the code again gets longer each time. When you enter the correct code the counter resets back to 10.

HTH

Anthony Remove eight from email to reply.

So I'll have to take the radio out to find the serial number?

I'm not sure how to do that on this car as it all looks built in. Maybe I'd better take it to a garage.

Cheers

Peter

How old is the car? Procedure to remove the radio is the same for all Corsa's - the newer models have a double DIN size radio, so need larger radio removal keys. You need a 2mm allen key to remove the four grub screws before you can insert the radio keys to remove the unit.

HTH

Anthony Remove eight from email reply.

I don't have any radio keys. It's 10 years old and there are 4 holes in it. A friend says he has something which will do the trick so I'll be OK.

Thanks for the help.

Peter

As the car is that old, Vauxhall may not keep the records for it. All of the radios from that era can be recoded by a car-hi-fi specialist with decoding equipment, usually for a minimal charge.

HTH

Anthony Remove eight from email to reply.

What happens if you get it wrong 10 times?

The radio is locked out and will not operate until re-coded.

Anthony Remove eight from email to reply.

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