stereo code

ronin · 08-12-2003, 07:58 PM

this has probably been bandied about a ton here in the past, but I need to know how to get the stereo code for my E34. car was in storage and I can't find my records folder! thanks in advance

Jared at Pelican Parts · 08-13-2003, 09:21 AM

You will need to get the serial number off the back of th radio, then go to your local dealer with that code, they will be able to give you the code

ronin · 08-13-2003, 12:21 PM

ugh, I didn't want to have to rip it out. I guess being able to go to the shop to get the code kind of circumvents the whole anti-theft scheme, doesn't it?

thanks!

P.S. anything I should take into consideration before tearing into the console?

Jared at Pelican Parts · 08-13-2003, 03:39 PM

No, because you will also need to show them that you are the registered owner of the car. The code of the back of the radio is the serial number for that particular radio. You need to get the serial number to obtain the access code from the dealer.

ronin · 08-13-2003, 04:01 PM

ah, you didn't mention the part about the registration

I did understand what you meant about how to get the code from the dealer.

Thanks again!

Jared at Pelican Parts · 08-13-2003, 04:04 PM

Sorry i wasnt more clear about that.

ronin · 08-13-2003, 05:12 PM

no problem, same goes for me too. I'm just glad that I don't have to send a certified sample of my DNA to Maury Povich, or go through some other ridiculous routine to get it.

I can just hear it:

"ronin, when it comes to the stereo in the '89 E34..... you are NOT the owner!" (audience screaming in disbelief as guest runs off stage bawling)

Exact-Oh · 08-14-2003, 09:39 PM

The radio is simple to remove. There are wierd five-sided allen screws though, needs a special tool to do it right. I have always gotten away with using a standard allen wrench, if they're not too tight that is.

ronin · 08-14-2003, 10:25 PM

ah, torx heads. I think I have one or two drivers lying around. I'll give it a try. thanks

Jared at Pelican Parts · 08-15-2003, 11:28 AM

It's not a Torx, If i remember right, it's like a 2.5m internal allen head bolt. It's really small. Just pry open the two covers on either side of the radio and pull it out. The connections on the back of the radio should just pull out of the radio. It's also a good idea to disconect the battery before you do this, it will prevent you from touchign something and accidentaly shorting something out.

ronin · 08-15-2003, 08:57 PM

sounds like it's not too complex. I should have some time this weekend to give it a shot. btw, I suppose that I can't do the owner verification over the phone. other than the registration and the serial(code), is there anything else I need to take to the dealer?

Exact-Oh · 08-16-2003, 08:40 AM

I agree with Jared, it's more like an allen head than a torx, but I have looked at them very closely in the past, and they have five flats. Typical allen heads have six. Another one of the 'special' tools they want you to buy. If you use an allen wrench that's a bit smaller, it does work though.

ronin · 08-16-2003, 10:23 PM

that should work. I've done similar things in the past. as long as I'm careful not to strip it

ronin · 08-18-2003, 12:21 AM

yep, and figuring the reg is in the glovebox