Volkswagen radio code from the VWZ serial
A Volkswagen radio code isn't free anywhere: it only exists in Volkswagen's database and can't be generated from the VWZ serial. FreeCarRadioCodes buys it in for $14.99 and emails it within 24 hours, usually much sooner.
Where the serial is
The serial is on a sticker on the radio's metal casing, so the unit has to come out of the dash. Most VW radios slide out with release keys, or a pair of flat tools pushed into the slots either side of the fascia. The sticker lists the part number and then the serial, which starts VWZ. Copy it exactly, letters included. This applies to the RCD 200, 300, 310 and 500, the RNS 310 and 510, and the older Delta, Gamma and Beta units.
What happens next
We check the VWZ serial is the right shape straight away. After you pay $14.99 the request goes to Volkswagen's database, and your code arrives by email from [email protected] within 24 hours, usually much sooner, with the SAFE entry steps for your radio.
What we cover
| Radio | Code |
|---|---|
| RCD 200 and RCD 300 | $14.99 |
| RCD 310 and RCD 500 | $14.99 |
| RNS 310 and RNS 510 | $14.99 |
| Delta, Gamma and Beta | $14.99 |
How to enter the code
- 1Switch the radio on. The screen shows SAFE, then 1000 after a few seconds. If it stays on SAFE, hold the two right-hand buttons until 1000 appears.
- 2Set each digit with preset buttons 1 to 4. Button 1 changes the first digit, 2 the second, and so on.
- 3When the four digits match your code, hold the same two right-hand buttons again until SAFE flashes and the radio plays.
- 4Two wrong tries and SAFE stays on the screen. Leave the radio switched on for an hour and it lets you try twice more.
Volkswagen models we see most
Volkswagen radio code questions
Is a Volkswagen radio code free?
No, not anywhere. It only exists in VW's database and can't be worked out from the serial. We buy it in and charge $14.99, and that's the price, not a starting point.
Is there a VW radio code generator that works?
No. The code isn't calculated from the VWZ serial, so nothing can generate it. The only real source is Volkswagen's database, which is where we get yours.
What does 1000 on the screen mean?
It means the radio is ready for the code. 1000 is the starting point, not a code. Use preset buttons 1 to 4 to change each digit to your four.
The screen says SAFE and won't go to 1000. What now?
The radio has had two wrong tries and is waiting. Leave it switched on with the ignition on for an hour. Then hold the right-hand buttons and 1000 comes back.
My serial starts SEZ, not VWZ. Am I on the right page?
No, SEZ is a SEAT unit and it has its own page here. The idea is the same, a lookup in the manufacturer's database, but the price and the database are different.