97 HSE. have the right radio pin Code, but it's not accepted. next step?

[CBH25]

Hi guys, I've read and searched widely and haven't found this problem.

Just bought this P38A and radio had been looking for the pin whole time. Didn't get any log books, so Dealer gave me the pin Code from my VIN, and its absolutely not working.

Code just stays on the screen, Not working.
I've pulled the head Unit out, but it has 6 digits hand written on it, but the Code on screen only has 4 slots.

Any ideas how I progress if my factory pin code does not work?
Thanks
Craig

[Hoges]

Hi Craig
The dealer is assuming that the headunit is the original ...if it had been replaced then the VIN would not necessarily be the key to the 4 digit code.

Maybe worth trying the first 4 digits or the last 4 digits of the 6 handwritten numbers. If that doesn't work, find the serial number of the headunit itself (Clarion or Alpine or Pioneer?) and phone the local agents.

Do you have a copy of RAVE applicable to your 97 model P38? The Owner's Manual for that year is part of the collection of documents in the RAVE with more info.
Hope you find it!
cheers

[finallyrangie]

Hello,

had a similar issue with mine this year, but my head unit was a bit the worse for wear, I sent it back to Clarion Australia, they fitted a new screen, sorted the gremlins, fitted aux leads so it can play mp3, provided a new pin code and posted it back to me for $195, depending how good a condition yours is in it might be worth the ask, they were very helpful both by email and on the phone, if you can get the number off the head unit they seem very happy to help, I would hope alpine would be the same if you have the later model.

good luck

[CBH25]

Thanks guys.

Well I've patiently entered:
Radio Pin code
P38 eka code
1st four digits written on unit
Last four digits written on unit
Middle four digits written on unit

No luck.
Thanks finallyrangie for the advice, but couldn't I walk in and get a BT capable Sony head Unit for that money? Then I'd have music and Calls wirelessly?

[Hoges]

:censored: aaaahh! the frustration of it all.... given its age, a polite call to whichever manufacturer local office may get you the code. I'd just ask to be put through to the tech services/support group and see what they can do...they'll probably be amazed it's still in existence:D if you tell them you're "restoring" it etc you"ll either get sympathy and lots of help... or:eek: ... usually the former;) I reckon it's worth a shot!

[finallyrangie]

Thanks finallyrangie for the advice, but couldn't I walk in and get a BT capable Sony head Unit for that money? Then I'd have music and Calls wirelessly?

Yes I expect you could, not sure how it would get on with the P38' s unique stereo system though, part of the reason I got mine done was I doubt any darling teenager (bored, it's not their fault) will stick a brick through the window to get at a tape player, if they've ever seen one!

As above, best bet is give the service guys a call or email, they were really good when I contacted them.
Good luck

[Scouse]

The dealer can also look up the radio code using the serial number on the radio itself if it was swapped from another car.


If it was a new radio that was fitted (not from another car) then it may not be on LRs records.


As a last resort, Clarion themselves may be able to get the code.

[CBH25]

I have a radio!
Great advice by all. Thanks.
Googled clarions number and the second person I spoke to had the pin number on hand. Amazing.

Worked first time, no worries,
For future searches on a 97 P38 theres no button to press after the four digit pin to 'enter' it. Radio starts playing 1 second after.

Also the 'punishment' time out didnt continue to double for me, it was an hour between each try, even after 8 or 9 attempts.

[Hoges]

Excellent ! Enjoy!:D

[TheTree]

Huzzzah !!