Audi Concert Radio Code

Q: How to Enter the Code

The entry method varies slightly by generation: Concert I and II (button-based): Use preset buttons 1–4 to cycle each of the four digits to the correct number. Press the seek/search button (or button 5 on Concert I) to confirm the code. Concert III / MMI controller units: Some later Concert or Concert-derivative units in the A4 B8/B9 or A6 C7 can be unlocked via the MMI controller (the rotary dial). Rotate to the correct digit, confirm with a press, and proceed through all four digits.

The Audi Concert is the standard-fit CD radio that has appeared across the A3, A4, A6, TT, and A1 over two decades of production. When it shows SAFE after a battery disconnect, workshop visit, or flat battery, you need the unit's AUZ serial number to retrieve the unlock code. This guide covers every Concert generation.

About the Audi Concert Range

The Audi Concert name encompasses three distinct generations of head unit, all manufactured or designed by Audi's OEM suppliers — primarily Philips, Blaupunkt, and Harman. All use the AUZ serial system (some older variants use a SEZ prefix) and the same SAFE mode anti-theft lock. The Concert range spans from approximately 1994 to 2016.

Finding the AUZ Serial Number

The AUZ serial is a 14-character string. The retrieval method depends on the Concert generation:

On-screen via preset buttons (Concert II and III): With the unit in SAFE mode, press and hold preset buttons 1 and 4 simultaneously for two to three seconds. The AUZ serial appears on the display. On some Concert II units, try 1 and 6 instead.
Unit label: Use Audi radio extraction keys (U-shaped blades into the four release holes) to slide the unit out of the DIN aperture and read the serial from the label on the unit body. This is the most reliable method for Concert I units.

With the full AUZ serial noted, get your Audi Concert radio code online immediately.

How to Enter the Code

The entry method varies slightly by generation:

Concert I and II (button-based): Use preset buttons 1–4 to cycle each of the four digits to the correct number. Press the seek/search button (or button 5 on Concert I) to confirm the code.
Concert III / MMI controller units: Some later Concert or Concert-derivative units in the A4 B8/B9 or A6 C7 can be unlocked via the MMI controller (the rotary dial). Rotate to the correct digit, confirm with a press, and proceed through all four digits.

Audi Concert Generations and Fitment

Generation	Years	Key Models	Serial Prefix	OEM Maker
Concert I	1994–2003	A4 B5, A6 C5, A3 8L	AUZ / SEZ	Philips / Blaupunkt
Concert II	2000–2008	A4 B6/B7, A6 C6, A3 8P, TT 8J	AUZ	Blaupunkt / Harman
Concert III	2007–2016	A3 8P facelift/8V, A1 8X, A4 B8, Q5 8R	AUZ	Harman

SAFE Mode, Lockouts, and Troubleshooting

The Audi Concert follows a temporary lockout system after incorrect entries:

SAFE: Power-loss locked state. You have several attempts.
Temporary lockout: After a wrong code, the unit imposes a waiting period (typically ranging from one minute to one hour depending on Concert generation and how many wrong attempts have been made). Keep the ignition in position II throughout.
SAFE 1000 or ERROR: The unit may display an error code or a restricted attempt indicator. With one attempt remaining, only proceed when you have the confirmed correct code.
Permanent lock or dealer reset: After exhausting all attempts, an Audi dealer can reset the unit via ODIS. Proof of ownership is required.

The Concert is notably more forgiving than older Becker units — the lockout is always temporary rather than permanent in standard scenarios.

Concert vs Symphony vs Chorus: What's the Difference?

Audi offered three naming tiers for its factory radios in this era:

Chorus: Entry level, typically AM/FM cassette or basic CD. Uses AUZ serial.
Concert: Mid-level CD/MP3 unit. Most common. Uses AUZ serial.
Symphony: Higher-spec CD changer-compatible unit. Also uses AUZ serial with same code procedure.
RNS-E: Navigation unit with DVD/SD. Uses AUZ serial. Code procedure is similar but the unit is larger (double-DIN on some installations).

Frequently Asked Questions

My Audi Concert shows SAFE but the buttons seem unresponsive — what should I do?

Some Concert units enter a state where the display shows SAFE but the preset buttons do not appear to respond to digit cycling. Try cycling the ignition off and back to position II. If the unit appears frozen, a thirty-second wait after power-up before attempting code entry resolves this on most generations.

Is the AUZ serial the same as the part number on the sticker?

No. The sticker on the Concert unit typically shows both the part number (e.g. 8E0 035 186) and the AUZ serial. The AUZ serial is the one you need for the code — it usually begins with the letters AUZ followed by numbers and letters to make 14 characters total.

Can I use a Concert from a different Audi model in my car?

Physically yes, if the DIN size matches (single or double). However, the code will be for the replacement unit's AUZ serial, not your original. Retrieve the code for the unit you are fitting before installation. Audi Concert units are generally not subject to Komponentenschutz (component protection) in the way that MMI or newer MIB units can be.

Does the Audi Concert code work for the Symphony and Chorus too?

The same AUZ serial-based lookup process applies to the Chorus, Concert, and Symphony. Each unit has its own unique serial and therefore its own unique code — but the retrieval and entry process is identical across all three names.

Get your Audi Concert unlocked today — enter your AUZ serial online and receive your code in minutes, any time of day.