Complicated radio removal

One of the problems we often come across is an owner unaware of the radio code for their vehicle. This is not a problem until either they have a flat battery or we have to carry out some work which involves disconnecting the battery. Although code savers are available to ensure the radio code is not lost, they are not infallible and it is possible to blow the fuse on the code saver by inadvertently shorting a wire to earth during a starter or alternator replacement.

Main dealers are now far less generous than they were in supplying radio codes and often require the V5, serial number and proof of owner’s identity, along with some cash. We are fortunate enough to have a good radio decoder to supply the required code, but first the radio needs to be removed, which is not always easy.

On this 2005 Ford Focus, the release slots are visible and the tangs need to be freed to slide out the radio, but this can still be a challenge. Once all four are released, the radio can be slid forward to reveal the serial number. Knowing which way to push the tangs to release the radio makes the job easier.