"code" displayed on radio
 

I bought a used 325is and the guy said the radio worked before he put the new battery in and now it reads "code" when you put the radio on. Any ideas on what this means? Thanks

normal problem, whenever you disconnect powert to the radio, it automatically interprets this as if the radio has been removed from the car, (i.e. stolen) so it requires you to enter the code. If you remove the radio and get the serial number off the back, you can go to your local BMW dealer and get the code if you show you are the new owner.

I've just encountered this same problem. However, I plugged the wrong code in a bunch of times. Now, it seems locked and "CODE"continues to appear, even when I put in the right code.

I've heard there's an extened wait time if you put the wrong code in more than 3 times. Anyone know how long I have to wait before I can plug it in and get my radio working again?

1986 325 ES

I heard that you have to disconnect the battery and let it sit for exactly one hour, then re-connect and try the code again.

Exactly one hour...? That seems wierd. I suppose it's better than waiting for a week or something bizarre like that. Do you suppose I can just pull the radio out for an hour? Just making sure that it's powered down for that time.

I had the same problem when I bought my 86 325 ES earlier this year.

Took the car to the dealer. I pulled the radio myself out far enough to get the serial number off of the back without disconnecting it and presented the serial number to the dealer along with a bill of sale and the title.

Was given the 5 digit code and instructions to leave the key on in the #2 position for a minimum of 1 hour and then to enter the code.

It worked as described.

Do you leave the key in that position with the battery connected or disconnected?

Connected.

I didn't end up trying the key thing, but it worked when I disconnected the battery for a couple hours and tried again.