2008 Lacrosse Radio swap

[57j2olds]

Hello,

I found a radio in a junk yard that I want to put in my Buick, however do I need to "Program" it somehow?

Is mine tied with my VIN?

Not sure if it will work.

Thanks much!

 

[MelsRegal]

Assuming it's a compatible radio it will need a code.

 

[57j2olds]

Thanks for the reply. How do I get a code?

 

[MelsRegal]

Thanks for the reply. How do I get a code?

Typically a dealer has to

 

[RD_Atlanta]

This was generated by an AI search for GM Radios.

If you're looking to generate the unlock code for a GM radio that has become locked (e.g., after a battery disconnection), there are resources available, though it might not be a direct software tool you can download to generate a code yourself.
Here's how to typically handle a locked GM radio:

• Retrieve the Radio Identification (ID) Code from your GM radio:
  • Turn on the ignition to the "ACC" position to power up the radio.
  • If your radio has 4 preset buttons, press and hold buttons 1 and 4 for 6-10 seconds until a 3-digit code appears on the display.
  • If your radio does not have 4 preset buttons, press and hold buttons 2 and 3 instead.
  • This 3-digit number is the first part of your radio's ID code. Write it down carefully.
  • Press the AM/FM or BAND button to get the second half of the ID code (another 3 digits).
  • You now have a 6-digit radio ID code.
• Contact GM or a Dealership:
  • You can call the GM radio hotline at 1-800-537-5140 and follow the automated instructions to enter your 6-digit radio ID code. You'll typically be asked to enter a dealer access code (e.g., 106010, 620529, 139010, 206053, 202108) before providing your radio ID code. The automated system will then provide you with a 4-digit unlock code.
  • Alternatively, you can visit a GM dealership with your proof of ownership (like your vehicle's registration or V5C logbook), VIN, and the radio ID code. They can retrieve the unlock code for you, sometimes for a small fee.
• Unlock the Radio:
  • Once you have the 4-digit unlock code, start your vehicle and turn on the radio.
  • Use the "HR" and "MIN" buttons to enter the unlock code, adjusting the numbers until they match the provided code.
  • Press the AM/FM or BAND button to confirm the code and unlock the stereo. The display should show "SEC" if successful.

Important Notes:

• If your radio displays "RDS," it cannot be unlocked using this method and requires reprogramming at a GM dealership with a specialized Tech II programmer.
• Be cautious about using apps claiming to generate radio codes, as their reliability can be questionable.
• If you've entered incorrect codes multiple times, the radio might display "InOP." In this case, you'll need to leave the ignition on for an hour before trying again.

 

[CorvairGeek]

It is VIN matched. The older, 'code' radios are prior to 2003 models. It takes a GM Tech 2 (or equivalent) to match it to the car, if it is even compatible.

 

[RD_Atlanta]

Thank you for educating me that starting in 2003, the VIN is stored in an EEprom. I found a guy on You Tube who posted a really decent video (Link Below) showing how to write the correct VIN using a Tech-2. But the Tech-2 requires a subscription, so at about 40% or so into the video he shows how to write the correct VIN to the 24C08 EEprom. I don't need a radio at this time but I thought that I should get prepared for when I will need one. So, I ordered a used radio off of Ebay and an Sop8 test clip from Amazon. I already have a prom reader & software. If it works for me, I'll be sure to follow up with a video describing my experience.

 

[CorvairGeek]

For test purposes, if you install a mis-matched radio, you can turn the ignition to 'Accessory' only (before the ignition is ever turned to 'On') and check the function of the unit. The VIN check only occurs when the ignition is to 'On' (at least through 2005). The locked information stays until the battery is disconnected.

 

[RD_Atlanta]

Good to know, thank you.