Kia Cee'd Radio Code — Unlock It Online
Battery replaced on your Kia Cee'd and now the radio won't work? The moment 12V power is interrupted, the factory head unit activates its anti-theft lock. You need the correct PIN code — unique to your radio's serial number — before audio will return. This guide covers all Kia Cee'd models built between 2007 and 2018, walks you through finding the serial number, and shows you exactly how to enter the code.
Why the Kia Cee'd Radio Locks
Kia fitted an electronic anti-theft lock to all factory head units supplied by LG Electronics and Hyundai Mobis (the two main OEM suppliers for Cee'd-era radios). The lock triggers automatically whenever power is removed. It is designed to make a stolen radio worthless without the matching code — but it equally affects legitimate owners after any battery work.
Finding the Serial Number on a Kia Cee'd
Display method
- Switch the ignition to accessory (key position I) so the radio is powered and showing the lock prompt.
- Press and hold preset buttons 1 and 6 together for around three seconds.
- The serial number will scroll across the display in segments — record every character.
Physical label method
- Using trim tools, remove the centre console fascia that surrounds the head unit.
- Release the head unit (usually two to four screws or slide-lock clips) and pull it forward.
- The serial number label is on the top or side of the unit — note it down.
- Refit the unit; you only need the number.
Getting Your Cee'd Radio Code
Enter the serial number in the online order form, select Kia Cee'd as your vehicle, and your code will arrive by email within minutes. The code comes directly from LG or Hyundai Mobis's original records. Visit our Kia radio code page to get started.
Entering the Code in a Kia Cee'd
- Ensure the ignition is in accessory mode and the radio is displaying the lock prompt.
- Press button 1 repeatedly to cycle to the first digit of your code (0–9).
- Press button 2 for the second digit, 3 for the third, and 4 for the fourth.
- When all four digits are correct, press OK, ►, or hold button 5 to confirm.
- On touchscreen-equipped Cee'd variants, tap the digits on the on-screen keypad and confirm via the screen.
Kia Cee'd Generations and Radio Fitment
The Cee'd generation covered here spans 2007 to 2018, during which Kia offered the hatchback and SW (estate) as well as the three-door Cee'd variant. Infotainment ranged from basic OEM CD units to the UVO-connected touchscreen systems introduced on later models.
| Model Years | Body Style | Typical Head Unit | OEM Manufacturer | Entry Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2007–2012 (Mk1) | Hatch / SW / 3-door | OEM AM/FM/CD (1-DIN) | LG / Hyundai Mobis | Preset buttons 1–4 |
| 2012–2015 (Mk2) | Hatch / SW / 3-door | OEM CD / touchscreen | LG / Hyundai Mobis | Buttons or touchscreen |
| 2015–2018 (Mk2 facelift) | Hatch / SW | OEM / UVO touchscreen | LG / Hyundai Mobis | Touchscreen |
Troubleshooting Error Messages
- CODE — Standard prompt; waiting for your input.
- WAIT — Temporary lockout after incorrect entries. Keep the ignition on accessory and leave the radio undisturbed until the display returns to the code prompt.
- LOCKED — Extended lockout. Keep the ignition in accessory mode; the unit will release after a set period (typically one hour).
- ERR — Wrong code. Do not attempt further entries until the lockout has cleared.
- 1000 — Some Kia units show a countdown of remaining attempts; this is normal and not an error state.
Double-check your serial number before entering the code — a misread character is the most common reason for rejection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where exactly is the serial number on a Kia Cee'd radio?
It is printed on a label on the head unit's chassis. Most Cee'd owners can retrieve it without removing the radio by using the preset 1+6 hold method, which scrolls the number across the display.
Is the Kia Cee'd code the same as the Kia Sportage?
No. Although both models may use head units from the same supplier, each radio has a unique serial number and therefore a unique code. You must use the code matched to your specific Cee'd unit.
My Cee'd is the SW estate — does the code process differ?
No. Body style does not affect the radio unlock procedure. The serial number retrieval and code entry steps are identical for hatchback, SW, and three-door versions.
How many attempts do I have before the Cee'd radio locks permanently?
Kia radios impose a temporary lockout — not a permanent one. After a set number of wrong entries, the unit enters a WAIT or LOCKED state. Once the timer expires (usually up to one hour of continuous power), you can try again.
I have a Kia Cee'd with the UVO system — is the code entry different?
On UVO-equipped models with a touchscreen, unlock is done via the on-screen keypad. The process is otherwise the same: serial number → order code → enter via screen → confirm.
Don't put up with a silent car — order your Kia Cee'd radio code now and have your music back in minutes.