VW RCD 310 Radio Code

The Volkswagen RCD 310 is one of the most common factory stereos in the VW range, fitted as standard to millions of Golfs, Polos, Passats, Tourans, Jettas, and Caddy vans. When it shows SAFE after a battery event, you need the correct four-digit code — and this guide explains exactly how to find it and enter it.

About the VW RCD 310

The RCD 310 (Radio CD 310) is a single-DIN CD/MP3/radio head unit manufactured by Bosch for Volkswagen. It was fitted as the entry-to-mid-level option across VW's model range from approximately 2008 to 2016, covering:

• Golf V and VI (2003–2012)
• Polo V/9N3 (2005–2017)
• Passat B6 and B7 (2005–2015)
• Touran I (2003–2015)
• Jetta V and VI
• Caddy III (2004–2015)
• Tiguan I (2007–2016)

If you need your code right now, look up your VW radio code online using the VWZ serial outlined below.

Finding the VWZ Serial Number

The RCD 310's serial is a 14-character string beginning with VWZ. There are two reliable ways to retrieve it:

1. On-screen (no tools required): With the unit in SAFE mode, press and hold preset buttons 1 and 6 together for approximately two seconds. The serial number appears on the unit's display. Write it down exactly.
2. Unit label: Using VW radio extraction keys (a set of four U-shaped metal blades), slide the RCD 310 out of the dashboard and read the serial from the white sticker on the unit's casing.

How to Enter the Code on the RCD 310

1. Turn the ignition to position II. The display shows SAFE.
2. Use preset buttons 1–4 to build the four-digit code, incrementing each digit individually.
3. Press the seek/search button (the right-arrow button) to confirm the code.
4. Correct entry: the display clears and normal radio operation resumes immediately.

RCD 310 vs Related Units

Unit	Years	Serial Prefix	Key Feature	OEM
RCD 300	2003–2008	VWZ	CD, no MP3	Blaupunkt / Bosch
RCD 310	2008–2016	VWZ	CD + MP3 + AUX	Bosch
RCD 510	2008–2015	VWZ6Z	Touchscreen, SD card	Volkswagen / Bosch
RNS 510	2006–2015	VWZ6Z	Satellite navigation	Continental / Bosch

SAFE, WAIT, and 1000 — Understanding Lockouts

The RCD 310 imposes a temporary lockout after incorrect code entries:

• SAFE: Normal locked state after power loss. You have multiple attempts available.
• WAIT 60 min: Wrong code entered. The unit locks for approximately one hour. Keep the ignition in position II (radio powered) and allow the full countdown to expire.
• 1000: One remaining attempt before a permanent dealer-level lockout. Only enter the code at this point when you are certain it is correct.
• Permanent lock: VW dealers with ODIS software can reset the unit after verifying ownership.

Frequently Asked Questions

My RCD 310 shows SAFE but I've never had a battery issue — what happened?

Even a brief voltage drop — such as during engine cranking with a weak battery, a blown fuse, or a brief electrical fault — can cause the RCD 310 to lose its power and enter SAFE mode. The code entry process is the same regardless of the cause.

How long does the serial display stay on screen?

When you press presets 1 and 6 together, the VWZ serial is displayed for roughly five to ten seconds. Have a pen ready before pressing the buttons, or take a photo of the display.

Can I use the same code if I replace the RCD 310 with another unit?

No. The code is specific to the individual unit's VWZ serial. If you swap in a different RCD 310, you will need the code for that unit's serial, not the previous one.

Does the RCD 310 fit all VW models?

The RCD 310 uses the standard single-DIN ISO format and fits any VW with the correct fascia adapter. However, code retrieval is only relevant to the specific unit fitted in your vehicle — always use your own unit's VWZ serial.

Get your RCD 310 unlocked today — enter your VWZ serial online and have your code back in minutes.