katiedav08

Hello! My bulb in my 2008 Chevy Cobalt radio went out in my stereo. The dealer said I had to buy a new radio if I wanted my screen to display the time and such.

I'm just replacing the old stereo with the exact same model, the stock radio. However, I know there is something the dealer has to do to program the stereo.. Is there any way I can do this from home?

I just don't want to pay the 100 bucks the dealer is saying its going to cost me to program the stereo.

Any ideas?

EinST

Welcome to the forum. The radio has a THEFTLOCK feature. It doesn't matter "the exact same model," it needs to be programmed for the VIN of your vehicle. Besides being a theft deterrent feature, they like to see you in the service department once in a while.

katiedav08

Thank you!

I wouldn't mind going to the service center where I bought the car, aren't very friendly or knowledgable so I try to do everything I can on my own. Is there any way for me to program it at home?

EinST

You're quite welcome. It's nothing to it if you have access to a Tech 2 scan tool. Call around independent shops to see if anyone can do it for less?