Renault Radio Code (PRE)
Renault's anti-theft system is slightly different from most other manufacturers: instead of a long serial number, many Renault radios use a short four-character identifier known as the PRE-code — one letter followed by three digits (e.g. T042 or B218). Once you have this code, retrieving the full unlock code takes seconds. This guide explains the complete process for Clio, Mégane, Captur, Twingo and all other Renault models.
What Is the PRE-Code?
The PRE-code is a short alphanumeric identifier embedded in Renault's older radio units (primarily the Tuner List, Update List CD and Blaupunkt-built units from approximately 1999–2012). It acts as a condensed serial that, combined with the radio type, allows the correct four-digit unlock code to be generated. Newer Renault models — fitted with Media Nav, R-Link or Connect Nav systems — use a longer serial number or a VIN-bound pairing system instead.
Additional serial formats found on Renault radios include T0 (Tuner List units), 8200 and 2811 part-number-based serials (often on Philips/VDO units), and BP-prefix serials on Blaupunkt-built models.
How to Display the PRE-Code on Screen
Renault Update List / Tuner List CD
- Switch the ignition on. The radio should show
CODE. - Press and hold preset buttons 1 and 2 simultaneously for about five seconds.
- The display will briefly show the PRE-code (e.g.
T042). Note it exactly. - The radio may return to the
CODEprompt — this is normal.
Alternative Method (Some Models)
- Press and hold the traffic announcement (TA) button and the 5 preset simultaneously.
- The PRE-code will scroll across the display.
If neither method works, the serial number can be read from the label on the unit casing after sliding it out with extraction keys. With the PRE-code or full serial noted, visit MyRenaultRadioCode.com to retrieve your unlock code.
Entering the Code on a Renault Radio
- With
----orCODEon screen, press button 1 repeatedly to cycle the first digit. - Press button 2 for the second, 3 for the third, 4 for the fourth digit.
- Press button 6 (or button 5 on some models) to confirm the code.
On newer Media Nav and R-Link touchscreen units, a numeric keypad appears on screen — tap each digit and confirm with the on-screen button.
Renault Radio Models and Serial Formats
| Radio model | Renault models / years | Serial / code type | Entry method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuner List / Update List | Clio II/III, Mégane II, Twingo I/II — 1998–2012 | PRE-code (T0 / 2811) | Buttons 1–4, confirm 6 |
| Philips/VDO units | Mégane II/III, Laguna II — 2002–2014 | 8200 / 2811 serial | Buttons 1–4, confirm 5 or 6 |
| Blaupunkt (BP serial) | Clio III, Mégane III — 2005–2012 | BP-prefix serial | Buttons 1–4, confirm 6 |
| Carminat Navigation | Laguna II, Mégane II — 2001–2008 | PRE-code or VIN-bound | Steering wheel control + mute |
| Media Nav / R-Link | Clio IV, Captur I, Kadjar — 2012–2019 | Long serial / VIN | Touchscreen keypad |
Common Renault Models Requiring Radio Codes
- Clio III / IV (2005–2019) — most common; Tuner List or Media Nav depending on year
- Mégane II / III (2002–2016) — Philips/VDO or Blaupunkt units
- Captur I (2013–2019) — Media Nav touchscreen
- Twingo II / III (2007–2019) — Tuner List or updated unit
- Kadjar I (2015–2018) — R-Link or Media Nav
Troubleshooting
- Radio shows WAIT or a 60-minute countdown: A wrong code was entered. Leave the ignition on for the full 60 minutes before trying again.
- PRE-code display method not working: Try the alternative button combination, or retrieve the serial from the unit label after removing it.
- Media Nav asks for an update code rather than a radio code: Newer systems handle security via a different mechanism. Contact the retrieval service with the full system serial.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the PRE-code the actual unlock code?
No. The PRE-code is a short identifier used to look up the real four-digit unlock code. You submit the PRE-code to a retrieval service, which returns the actual unlock code you enter into the radio.
My Renault Mégane III has a Blaupunkt radio — does it use a PRE-code?
Blaupunkt-built units fitted to Renaults use a BP-prefix serial rather than a PRE-code. The retrieval process is the same — submit the full BP serial at MyRenaultRadioCode.com.
Can I get the Renault code without the original card?
Yes. Display the PRE-code or full serial using the button combination described above, then retrieve the code online. The original code card is not required.
Does my Renault Clio IV need a code?
It depends on the audio system. Clio IVs from 2012–2016 fitted with the Tuner List unit do require a code. Those with Media Nav touchscreen systems use a different (touchscreen-based) security mechanism but still require a code after battery disconnection.