Mitsubishi Space Radio Code — Unlock It Online
The Mitsubishi Space range — encompassing the Space Star, Space Wagon, and Space Runner — has been in production from 1999 through to 2019, covering an exceptionally wide variety of OEM head units. If your Space model is showing a CODE prompt or a blank display after a battery event, you need the radio's serial number and the corresponding unlock code. This guide explains how to find one and enter the other across the full production span.
Why Does the Mitsubishi Space Radio Lock?
All Mitsubishi OEM audio systems from this era incorporate an anti-theft lock that engages on power loss. The system is designed to make the head unit inoperable if removed from the vehicle — a sensible deterrent that becomes a minor headache for legitimate owners during routine battery work. The fix is simple: enter the correct four or five-digit code and the radio is immediately restored.
Finding the Serial Number
Mitsubishi uses a serial number stamped or printed on a label affixed to the radio chassis. The length and format vary somewhat across the production years of the Space range:
- Button combination method: Turn the ignition to accessories (position II) so the radio displays CODE. Press and hold preset buttons 1 and 6 simultaneously for approximately two to three seconds. On most Mitsubishi units from this era, the serial will scroll across the display. Take note of it carefully.
- Physical extraction method: If the button combination does not yield the serial — which can happen on older Space Star and Space Wagon units — remove the head unit using DIN extraction keys. The serial label is on the top or rear face of the unit, usually near a barcode.
Head units in the Space range were commonly sourced from Clarion and Mitsubishi Electric. The serial format is typically eight to twelve characters. With the serial ready, order your Mitsubishi Space radio code online for fast email delivery.
Entering the Unlock Code
- Start with the ignition on and CODE visible on the display.
- Use preset buttons 1 through 4 (or 1 through 5 on five-digit codes) to input each digit. Each press increments the digit by one.
- Once each digit position shows the correct number, press OK, the source button, or hold the seek button (depending on the specific head unit) to confirm the entry.
- If the code is correct the display returns to normal station or media display.
Space Model and Radio Overview
| Model | Years | Typical Radio Type | Typical OEM | Serial Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Space Star (A0) | 1999–2005 | Single-DIN CD/cassette | Clarion | Label on chassis |
| Space Wagon (N9) | 1999–2004 | Single-DIN CD | Mitsubishi Electric | Label on chassis |
| Space Runner (N6/N7) | 1999–2002 | Single-DIN CD/cassette | Clarion | Label on chassis |
| Space Star (A2 / new gen) | 2012–2019 | Single/Double-DIN CD/MP3 | Mitsubishi Electric / Clarion | Display or label |
The later Space Star from 2012 onwards (A2 platform, sold as a city car) carries a more modern head unit with a cleaner display, and the button-combination serial retrieval is more reliable on this generation. Older N-series Space Wagon and Space Runner models more often require physical extraction to obtain the serial.
Troubleshooting
- CODE prompt: Standard locked state — enter your code as described.
- WAIT or LOCKED: Too many incorrect entries. Leave the ignition on for 30 to 60 minutes before retrying. Check your code carefully before the next attempt.
- Display blank after ignition on: The radio may be in a deeper sleep mode on some older units. Try pressing the power button briefly, then waiting for the CODE prompt before entering anything.
- Code accepted but radio shows no stations: Check that the aerial/antenna connector is fully seated — this occasionally comes loose during battery or service work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the process the same for the Space Star, Space Wagon, and Space Runner?
The general approach is identical — find the serial, obtain the code, and enter it via preset buttons. The differences are in how the serial is retrieved (button combo or extraction) and the precise button used to confirm the code, which varies slightly between the Clarion and Mitsubishi Electric units fitted to these models.
What if my Space Star is the newer A2 model — does anything change?
The newer A2 Space Star (2012–2019) uses a more modern single or double-DIN unit and the button-combination serial display is more reliable. The four-digit entry method via preset buttons 1–4 remains the same. Higher-spec models in some markets may have a touchscreen that requires navigating a menu to enter the PIN.
Can I obtain the code from Mitsubishi directly?
Mitsubishi dealers can retrieve the code using the vehicle VIN and radio serial, but this typically requires an appointment and may involve a fee. An online lookup using only the serial number is faster and available at any time.
Is there a risk of permanently locking the radio by guessing?
Mitsubishi radios from this era use a temporary lockout after a set number of incorrect entries rather than a permanent lock. The lockout lasts between 30 minutes and one hour depending on the unit. Do not continue guessing — obtain the correct code first, then enter it once with confidence.
Get your Mitsubishi Space stereo working again in minutes. Order your Mitsubishi radio code online — enter the serial, receive the code by email, and you're done.