Z3: "CODE WAIT" on radio after entering code?

thanks for all that....I will again approach the dealer (I shudder at the thought; they hold onto their data like it's Fort Knox material). I have to say that a simple act of changing my battery is becoming a Gothic Horror Story. Sorry to say, this will be a major consideration when buying my next car...who needs this grief... thanks again,
M

I think that most of the techs are ignorant about this particular problem and they don't like to be told they are WRONG.
INSIST that you get all the possible codes for your serial number FROM BMW. If they won't do it tell them you will take your business some where else then do it and make sure they know it!

Correct, there are a minimum of two (2) possible codes; one (1) each for Alpine and Blaupunkt, as both were suppliers of the head unit.

Unfortunately, after the failed attempts to enter the code, I *think* the radio has to be "powered on" for an hour before the "code wait" defaults back to "enter code." I do not know if it needs a continuous hour, or enough "on time" to equal an hour.

Originally Posted by Randy Forbes

Correct, there are a minimum of two (2) possible codes; one (1) each for Alpine and Blaupunkt, as both were suppliers of the head unit.

Unfortunately, after the failed attempts to enter the code, I *think* the radio has to be "powered on" for an hour before the "code wait" defaults back to "enter code." I do not know if it needs a continuous hour, or enough "on time" to equal an hour.

Yes it does need to be on continuously until the radio switches back to enter code. Enjoy a nice drive listening to engine or let it sit in the garage in the on position.

yes, I have all that, thanks...I'm way past the 'wait and plugging in the same number' thing...been there, plenty...It's time to demand more code/European numbers, I believe...I'll start that tomorrow and keep you in the loop...many thanks
M

I think I have to add something here: there may be a code # per manufacturer but your SERIAL number for your unit is the one and only. My serial number matches my code number and only in Alpine units. (Don't quite get how you can request "codes from other makers" ...when the serial number only shows up under Alpine...but doesn't show up at all under Pioneer of Blaupunkt!?)
M

Originally Posted by mumbles1

I think I have to add something here: there may be a code # per manufacturer but your SERIAL number for your unit is the one and only. My serial number matches my code number and only in Alpine units. (Don't quite get how you can request "codes from other makers" ...when the serial number only shows up under Alpine...but doesn't show up at all under Pioneer of Blaupunkt!?)
M

I don't know what to tell you there. BMW Headquarters gave me 3 codes and even they could not say which one was right.

well, that is good news...do you mean BMW of North America?

The dealer told me that they sent a fax with my serial number to BMW headquarters in Germany. I had to wait for 1 1/2 days to get the reply because of the time difference.

Well my local dealer gave me two codes for mine...... serial number for the alpine etc....... 2nd one worked

Serial number is not a code...Two codes? Can't quite figure these guys out...they plug into the same online system...how is it your dealer sees 2 codes and mine insist there is only one number on the screen...?

Didn't say the serial number was a code...... don't know why they gave me 2 codes, maybe there is a clitch in the system...... I called gave them the yr and model of my Z, man said there was two types of radios(as stated above), so try both of these (the codes) 1st one didn't work 2nd one did.

Well, you're lucky you got 2, then. (I even called BMW in your area, Huntsville...got a very nice fellow, but he gave me only one code; insisted there was only one...the one have ...that doesn't work) (This must be a plot!)

It's all good now, never have to worry about codes again.... I replaced the head unit with a Pioneer N3 Nav flip unit......... love it.

Help.....I have a 1997 z3 with a cassette radio(with a cd changer in the trunk). I went to the dealer and had a bad customer service experience...lol. They want to charge $190 to pull the radio out. I need the radio security code...any suggestions? Michelle

Hi Michelle~
you shouldn't pay outrageous fees for this & you can find your code (assuming you don't know yours)...I'm going to quote a great response from another forum member, Tommy z3. so, try this and let me know...

"You can remove the radio yourself, check the sticker for manufacturer's information and replace the radio in about 5 minutes. Here are the instructions which work for cassette and CD models. (Cut and paste http://www.fitaudio.com/?View=entry&EntryID=98

No "special tool" is needed to loosen the screws. The screws are retained in the side of the radio so you will not drop or lose them. I use a 3/32 Allen wrench. I've been told that a 3mm Allen wrench will also work.

The hinged screw cover doors have tiny indents. Use a tiny flathead screwdriver to pry them. Removing the left side screw is easier if you remove the volume knob first - just pull it off.

Slide the radio forward and you'll see the manufacturer's sticker with its REAL serial number. As mentioned before there are two manufacturers: Blaupunkt and Alpine.
My Blaupunk brand radio has a sticker serial number that reads: BP0273 2 9981972
On my radio display I see only: 29981972

An Alpine brand will look something like this: AL6BDUT02 31314

With the REAL serial number, call the BMW dealer again (sorry) and retrieve your code without spending "one red cent" out of pocket.

Dealers should be ashamed. $$$ for a 5-minute process and computer lookup. You already own the car which I think includes the radio and what ever it takes to make it functional. Shall we believe that if during a service they disconnect the battery - they would charge you $120 to activate your radio?!!! Batteries do die, it is a fact of life. What a rip..."

Let me know... Mumbles (Tony)

Originally Posted by Chattanoogaz3

Help.....I have a 1997 z3 with a cassette radio(with a cd changer in the trunk). I went to the dealer and had a bad customer service experience...lol. They want to charge $190 to pull the radio out. I need the radio security code...any suggestions? Michelle

You should be able to retrieve the serial number without pulling the radio by holding down the M button while your radio is on. Then PM BradK over on bimmerforums who should be able to give you the code number(s) for that serial number. There is usually more than one, depending on exactly who manufactured the unit.

Thank You for your help...I will try to work on it this weekend I do miss my radio......it is funny how many times I reach for the know to turn it up....lol. Michelle

I got a CODE WAIT then the display disappeared now I can not tell whether the radio is on or off? Has anyone experienced this?

Originally Posted by baysidewood

I got a CODE WAIT then the display disappeared now I can not tell whether the radio is on or off? Has anyone experienced this?

Look at posts 28 and 29.

But how do I know if the radio is in the on or off position as there are no display lights.

Sounds like there is no power to the radio. A fuse maybe?

The little red light is flashing on the radio. Wouldn't that mean there is power?