Replacement RDS/Theftlock Radio - LOCKED
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Replacement RDS/Theftlock Radio - LOCKED
I bought a replacement CD changer from offer up and from everything I've read the Theftlock/RDS function keeps it from being used in a vehicle with a different VIN. I've tried to do the reset using the code/keys on the radio but everything I've read this had to be unlocked by a dealer. Problem is, the dealer wants 140 bucks just to do this! That's 120 dollar more than i paid fro the stereo. My question is, is there any way to bypass this at home without paying GM 140 dollars min just to put a computer on it? Or is my stereo going to be held hostage until I just come up with the cash? If that is the case, I'd rather just put an after market in it but i believe there is some "control box" that monitors the anti theft and gauges, etc that has to be replaced too.
CF Beginner
Joined: Sep 2019
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Let's dredge up an old post that got no replies. Hopefully this will help someone in need of information.
I too was told it would be $130 to "program" my radio and I absolutely could not use a used unit. Well folks the dealers are FOS. The problem is most of their techs dont know how to fully use the tools they have.
There are a couple ways to circumvent the theft lock system. One is to find access to a tech2 scan tool and do it thru diagnostics. All you do is erase the existing vin. When you start your vehicle if the BCM doesn't see a vin it assumes the unit is new and places the vin on that chip. The newer MDI diagnostic dongle and laptop is capable of erasing that chip also.
You can also remove and replace that chip if you have a little know how and a couple fairly inexpensive tools. Took less than an hour dash to dash working as it should.
The chip in my 2010 HHR radio was the 24C128N chip. I replaced that chip in an eBay purchased unit that of course matched my cars factory radio code and everything works fine including my XM radio and onstar.
I also didnt waste any time ordering a tech2 diagnostic tool since ill save almost what I paid for it in the first week. I hate feeling like I cant do my own work and have to pay stupid amounts of money for work I can do myself.
I hope this helps a few folks.
I too was told it would be $130 to "program" my radio and I absolutely could not use a used unit. Well folks the dealers are FOS. The problem is most of their techs dont know how to fully use the tools they have.
There are a couple ways to circumvent the theft lock system. One is to find access to a tech2 scan tool and do it thru diagnostics. All you do is erase the existing vin. When you start your vehicle if the BCM doesn't see a vin it assumes the unit is new and places the vin on that chip. The newer MDI diagnostic dongle and laptop is capable of erasing that chip also.
You can also remove and replace that chip if you have a little know how and a couple fairly inexpensive tools. Took less than an hour dash to dash working as it should.
The chip in my 2010 HHR radio was the 24C128N chip. I replaced that chip in an eBay purchased unit that of course matched my cars factory radio code and everything works fine including my XM radio and onstar.
I also didnt waste any time ordering a tech2 diagnostic tool since ill save almost what I paid for it in the first week. I hate feeling like I cant do my own work and have to pay stupid amounts of money for work I can do myself.
I hope this helps a few folks.
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bignatewilson
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Sep 4, 2008 11:48 PM