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1998 Passat radio in Safe mode

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31K views 20 replies 8 participants last post by  BradMD_96  
#1 ·
Hi, I recently bought a 1998 GLS 1.8T Passat out of an auction, and the radio came stuck in safe mode....according to some readings here in the forum I look up for the code in trunk well area, in the glove box, and manual...no code in any of those areas, maybe the manual had it, but it was removed, since there is quarter of a page missing.

Anyway, I pulled out the unit (a clarion unit, made in Japan ) and what I think is the four code is written on the back of it, along with part of the VIN number, but didn't work when I tried it out.

So, the unit sticker reads:

VWZ9Z7V1035172
PU-1582A-C

The car VIN is WVWMA63B6WE218437 and the hand writen "code" is 9686 as far as I can understand.

I tried also 9896 but with no luck (in the case I read it upside down, but 9686 is more suitable according to what I see)

I had contact the dealer, but he will charge a fee in order to "correct" the problem.

Can anyone help me with this situation?... I'm not trying to get help without reading, I did a research and learn how to get the radio out and how to reset it to get to read 1000 on the display.
But I'm getting frustrated because I can't get it to work having the so called "code".

Your help will be much appreciated.
 
#2 ·
I would guess the hand written four digit number is probably the unlock code. When you entered the code, how did the radio display respond?

If I remember correctly, you get three tries to enter the code and if unsuccessful, it locks you out completely. I think the display may indicate how many attempts you've made (or have left). Once locked out, the radio needs to stay powered on for something like an hour before it will revert back to allowing you three more tries.

You may want to try 6869 (backwards) on the off chance it was Leonardo da Vinci who wrote down the number.
 
#3 ·
Thanks Steve for your reply... once I input the "code" and press ">" (Seek button) an audible beep is heard then the radio display will blink 3 times word "safe" then get solid with a small number 1 in the left side (think of first try), then the same with my second attempt, leaving now a small number 2 and word "safe" on display, then it gets disable. So I need to wait for about an hour with radio "On" to get another 2 tries.

Also tried 6869...no luck, seems Leonardo hasn't wrote it, jejeje.

I was hopping that there's a way to retrieve the code by doing some steps with the unit.

Any other thoughts?
 
#4 ·
The only other way I know of to get the code number is from someone who has access to the VW database. I had the same problem and ended up paying a dealer to look it up for me. The amount they charge for this will depend on the dealer. If you have any connections, that may help. Maybe someone on PW has a connection that can help you out.
 
#5 ·
That would be much of a help (having someone with access to VW database)...at least to tell me if the number written on the back of the radio is the right one.

From my point of view, paying a dealer for the code is not rigth. Why should we pay for something dealers should do for free?. I'm speaking of costumer service (even I'm not the original owner)

I really don't want to go and purchase an aftermarket stereo, I would rather prefer to have this car as original as possible.

Thanks anyway for your input, really appreciate it.

Anybody else who can help?
 
#6 ·
Radio Code -> CD Changer plug-in??



Did you get it working?

I just got my code from the dealer, for free. The Audio System info brochure even says they'll do it for free. I gave them the VIN# and the radio's S/N, and they read it to me over the phone.

My radio's serial number is stamped into the side of the radio chassis, and is about as long and convoluted as the VIN, so perhaps you need to take another look. Your "PU-1582A-C" may just be a model number.


But, as long as I have your attention, I need some radio help...

I'm going to install an Enfig iPod adapter (BlitzSafe VW/M-LINK1 V.3 EnfigCarStereo.com ). It plugs in where the CD changer plugs in. In the pic of the back of the radio, which is the CD plug? I don't have a CD changer, but all the slots have plugs in them. (The pic above is not mine; just FYI.) I assume it's just a pre-wire harness plug for a CD Changer that's -not- installed in the trunk.

Thanks!!
 
#7 ·
Oh, and BTW, two things:

1) I pulled the metal strip out of a hanging file folder, cut it at an angle with tin snips, and they worked perfectly re: releasing the clip that hold the radio in the dash.
2) In the process, I unplugged the face plate from the radio. ...Thought I'd FUBARed it! Is this some kind of DubClub secret??!
 
#9 · (Edited)
Thanks, Steve!

What's that page from (VW shop manual??)

I pulled the radio just far enough to be sure I knew how to release the latches, but not enough to see what's what on the back. Enfig iPod adapter should arrive today, so I'll dive in this evening.

--edit----
Couldn't wait...! I Popped the radio out, and the adapter went in easy as pie. I wrapped the little plastic box in foam so it wouldn't rattle, and brought the cable out on the passenger side of the console. I tucked it under the edge of the console 'til it's between the seats, and still have 2+ feet of cable so I can handle the iPod easily. Sound quality is fan-freakin-tastic! (I wanted to snake the cable out through the glove box, but didn't realize that entail pulling the console first. Ugh!!)

Kudos to Enfig for this gadget!
 
#10 ·
No, I did not get my stereo to work!!

My nearby dealer wants me to pay $40.00 Dlls for giving out the code...that encourages me to give a look into an aftermarket stereo. Haven't done that either.

Almost four months with this car and still using my cell phone for hearing music while driving...I should really consider buy a new stereo, jejeje...I'm still wondering how speakers sound!!

Regarding your question...I'm not the right person to ask...but I see now that Steve pointed you in a good direction!!
 
#14 ·
want to find my code for me? bought this car with a knock,and after having the motor out for a month rebuilding, i think the cluster lost its memory. the radios serial is :VWZ9Z7Y7184343. Thanks a ton! want to see if the radio/ cd changer etc works before i go on vacation (5 hour drive) next weekend. its also a 98 1.8
 
#18 ·
That website can not decode mine for some weird reason..

Sucks, I called dealership they want me to make an appointment and show up.. I told them I already had the code just need the safety..

Said could not be done over the phone.. Now what :/
 
#19 ·
I don't understand. You have the code but need the safety? The four digit code should unlock the radio.

I tried that site with two different Premium IV radios and it couldn't provide either codes. The site also said Grundig radio codes and my two radios say they were made by Clarion. Maybe that's the problem?

I just looked at that site again and it said it covers the pre-1999 Grundig and Philips radios. That would explain it I guess.
 
#20 · (Edited)
I'd rather resurrect this than start all over-
I just bought a working single din radio and single din cd player for my 2002 Passat GLX 4-motion and forgot to get the VIN from the donor car (DOH!).
Do I NEED the VIN to get the code from the dealer or does anyone know if just the info from the radio is sufficient?? The yard is an hour away...... I'd rather not drive back.


UPDATE: Never mind....I went back to the yard anyway to get the VIN and see if there were any signs of a code in the trunk. Of course not- but I did score another single DIN radio and CD player (with VIN from car) just in case!