Get Your Ford Radio Code

1. Select your Ford radio series

2. Enter serial number

Select a series above to see the required format

Not sure which series? Check the label on your radio unit. M-series serials start with M followed by 6 digits. V-series start with V. FO-series start with FO. If your serial doesn't match, try each variant.

How to Find Your Ford Radio Serial Number

Three ways to locate the serial on your Ford radio

Method 1 — On-screen display (easiest)

Turn on the ignition (do not start the engine). When the radio displays CODE or SAFE, hold the 1 and 6 preset buttons simultaneously for 3–5 seconds. The serial number will appear on the radio display in two parts — note both parts and combine them.

Method 2 — Radio chassis label

Remove the radio from the dashboard using Ford release keys (DIN tools). On the side or top of the unit you will find a white sticker with the serial number printed in the format M123456 or V234567. Enter the 6 digits only (without the leading letter) when using M-series or V-series.

Method 3 — Vehicle documentation

Some Ford vehicles include the radio code in the owner's manual, on a separate card in the glove box, or on a sticker inside the service booklet. Check these before removing the radio from the dashboard.

Tip: Ford Focus (2005–2011) and Ford Fiesta (2002–2008) most commonly use M-series. Newer Ford models (2009+) typically use V-series. Transit vans often use the FO-series format.

Compatible Ford Models

Year ranges covered by each series

Series	Models	Years
M-series	Focus Mk1/Mk2, Fiesta Mk5/Mk6, Mondeo Mk3, Galaxy Mk1, Transit Mk6	1996–2010
V-series	Focus Mk2/Mk3, C-Max, Kuga Mk1, S-Max, Galaxy Mk2, Mondeo Mk4	1999–2012
FO-series	Puma, Cougar, Explorer, Expedition, Ranger, Mustang (US)	1993–2010

Ford Radio Code FAQ

Why does my Ford radio ask for a code?

Ford radios include a built-in anti-theft system. Whenever the radio loses power — battery replacement, disconnection for repair, or a flat battery — it locks and displays CODE or SAFE. The correct PIN must be entered to restore normal operation.

How do I enter the code once I have it?

Use the station preset buttons (1–6) on the radio. Each press increments the corresponding digit. Press and hold button 5 (or the OK button on some models) to confirm. If you have a 4-digit code, use buttons 1–4. The radio will unlock immediately when the correct code is entered.

My Ford shows WAIT — what do I do?

After 3–5 incorrect attempts, the radio enters a lockout period. Leave the ignition in the ACC or ON position (engine off) for 30–60 minutes. The display will return to CODE when it's ready. Do not enter any more codes until the wait period is over.

The code doesn't work — what now?

First verify you're using the correct series (M vs V). Enter only the digits — not the leading letter from the serial. Some Focus and Mondeo units have two possible serial formats; try the other variant. If still unsuccessful, the radio may have been re-coded by a previous owner or dealer.