How to Find the Serial N. on a 166's Radio
The only thing you'll need to find the corresponding code is your radio's serial num. (not part number!).
On all Alfa Romeo's, you can find it in one of these places:
- Directly on the radio screen (by using some combinations of buttons)
- On the radio body itself - you'll need to extract it and write down serial (which is not as hard as it seems).
Search for something like: Serial, SN, S/N, Serial Num...
1. Find the S/N on Alfa Romeo 166's Display
Alfa Romeo 166 radio does not display the serial number on the screen.
Unfortunately, the unit must then be physically removed to find the serial on a factory sticker on the radio casing.
2. How to Find the Serial Number on the Radio Unit's Sticker
The serial number is usually located on a sticker attached to the head unit.
Step 1: Turn off the vehicle.
Step 2: After that, take off the surrounding panel.
Step 3: Then release the mounting clips.
Step 4: Carefully pull the radio forward partially (Be careful not to damage the cables that the unit is connected to).
Step 5: Look for the serial number on the side of the unit.
Step 6: Write down the full S/N carefully and come back here so that we can generate the code.
Important: Differentiate the Serial Number from the Part Number!
Example: Alfa Romeo 166 serial number label location
Common Serial Number Prefixes on Alfa Romeo 166 Radios
Your Alfa Romeo 166 radio serial number may start with:
BPCCM
Common Alfa Romeo 166 Radio Code Issues
Many drivers encounter radio lock problems on their 166 after electrical work.
Below are the most typical situations when this can happen.
Battery Change (Most Common)
When the battery is removed, the Alfa Romeo 166 radio requests a security code.
This factory protection system is designed to protect the original head unit by disabling the radio after power loss.
Other Situations
- Installing a replacement head unit will trigger the original radio code.
- After an ECU or software reset, the radio may lock.
- A fuse removal can cause the Alfa Romeo 166 radio to request a security code.
- Jump-starting the vehicle can trigger anti-theft mode, requiring the unlock code.
Quick Fixes Before Buying a Radio Code
Looking for a free Alfa Romeo 166 Radio Code? Actually, you may find it.
In some cases, the code may already be available in the vehicle itself or in the documentation.
Checking these sources can save you time and money before using an online lookup tool.
Below are the most reliable places to look.
Look for it in the Car Itself
- In the vehicle handbook, often on a code card.
- Inside the center console, sometimes on a label.
- In the spare wheel area, on a service sticker.
- In your car paperwork from the previous owner.
- On the radio unit itself, if it was serviced earlier.
Can the Dealer Get You the Code?
Dealerships can generate your radio code by checking the vehicle records in their system.
They typically ask for registration and ID before sharing the security PIN.
This is the official way to restore access to the factory radio.
Downsides:
- Some imported or older radios may not be in their database.
- You may need to contact service support during business hours.
- The lookup is often not instant and may require waiting.
- Dealers frequently bill for the code (It may cost more than 100$).
Why Use Our Alfa Romeo 166 Radio Code Lookup Service?
Our Alfa Romeo 166 radio code lookup is designed to simplify the unlock process.
Unlike traditional dealer lookup, this method doesn't require VIN and can be done online in minutes.
It's a more convenient and cheaper alternative for drivers who need their radio unlocked quickly.
The Dealer vs FindRadioCode
- Dealer services often charge over $100, while FindRadioCode offers codes from 9.99$.
- Some dealers require visiting the service center and showing documents, while FindRadioCode is fully online.
- Dealer lookup can take time, while our system delivers codes right away 95% of times.
- Dealerships operate during business hours, while FindRadioCode is available anytime.
- Dealer lookups often come with no guarantee, while FindRadioCode offers a full money-back policy.
Now You Have the Code. How to Enter It?
Once you have the Alfa Romeo's unlock code, you can enter it using the infotainment controls.
Most radios display "ENTER CODE", "----" or "XXXX" message when they are locked.
You typically use the preset buttons to input the code.
After entering the full code, the radio will confirm the entry.
Try not to make mistakes, because too many wrong attempts can temporarily lock the radio.
It will allow you a few incorrect tries before showing a LOCKED message.
You can reset the lockout by keeping the ignition on for 60 minutes or a set waiting period.
Frequently Asked Questions about Alfa Romeo 166 Radio Code
Many of their radios use a anti-theft code, but not every model year or radio type requires one.
It depends on the head unit and production year.
Free radio codes are rarely available.
Some online tools may help, but most codes require dealer lookup.
The only free way would be to search your vehicle and its glovebox to see if you already possess the code.
Yes, each radio unit has its own unique code. If you install a replacement radio, you'll need the code for that specific unit.