How to Find the S/N on a 500L's Radio
The only thing you'll need to get the code is your radio's serial number (not part number!).
On all Fiat's, you can find it in one of these places:
- Displayed on the radio screen (by using some combinations of buttons)
- On the radio unit itself - you'll need to extract it and write down your serial (which is not so hard).
Search for something that looks like: Serial, SN, S/N, Serial Num...
1. Viewing 500L's S/N on the Display
Fiat 500L radio does not display the serial number on the screen.
Unfortunately, the unit must then be physically removed to find the serial on a manufacturer label on the radio casing.
2. How to Find the S/N on the Radio Unit's Sticker
To find the serial number, you'll need to remove the radio unit from the dashboard.
- Start by turning off the vehicle and taking off the dashboard bezel.
- Next, unscrew the mounting bolts and slide the radio out to check the label on the back of the radio. Be careful not to damage the cables.
- Write down the serial number precisely and come back to our website.
- Know that serial number and part number are not the same. You can find both on the sticker, and you only care for the first one.
Example: Fiat 500L serial number label location
Common Serial Number Formats on Fiat 500L Radios
Your Fiat 500L radio serial number may start with:
BPCCMT00
Common Fiat 500L Radio Code Situations
Many drivers encounter radio lock problems on their 500L after battery-related issues.
Below are the most common situations when this can occur.
Battery Change Problem
When the battery is removed, the Fiat 500L radio enters anti-theft mode.
This security feature is designed to prevent theft by disabling the radio after electrical reset.
Other Scenarios
- Installing a used head unit will trigger the original anti-theft code.
- After an ECU or software reset, the radio may lock.
- A fuse removal can cause the Fiat 500L radio to lock.
- Jump-starting the vehicle can trigger anti-theft mode, requiring the unlock code.
Quick Fixes Before Buying a Radio Code
Before you pay for it, it's worth checking a few places where the code is often stored.
Some owners find their Fiat 500L radio code without needing any tools or paperwork.
Here are the most common things to check first.
Look for it in the Car Itself
- In the radio manual, often on a code card.
- Inside the glovebox, sometimes on a label.
- In the boot compartment, on a radio label.
- In your car paperwork from the previous owner.
- On the radio unit itself, if it was serviced earlier.
Can the Dealer Get It for You?
A Fiat dealer can usually retrieve the security code using your 500L's VIN.
In most cases, you need to contact the service department or visit the dealership and prove ownership.
Once verified, they can generate the original anti-theft code for your radio.
Disadvantages:
- You usually need to book an appointment and bring ID.
- Dealers often charge a fee for the lookup service and it's sometimes more than 100$.
- The process can take days depending on the model and database.
- Some older Fiat 500L radios may require manual lookup.
Why Use Our Fiat 500L Radio Code Lookup Service?
Our Fiat 500L radio code lookup is designed to avoid dealer visits.
Unlike traditional dealer lookup, this method doesn't require VIN and can be done online in minutes.
It's a faster and cheaper alternative for drivers who need their radio unlocked quickly.
The Dealer's VIN Lookup vs FindRadioCode
- Dealer services often charge high fees, while FindRadioCode offers codes from 9.99 USD.
- Some dealers require visiting the service center and showing documents, while FindRadioCode is fully remote.
- Dealer lookup can take days, while our system delivers codes right away 95% of times.
- Dealerships operate during weekdays, while FindRadioCode is available 24/7.
- Dealer lookups often come with limited refunds, while FindRadioCode offers a full money-back policy.
Now You Have the Code. How to Enter It?
Once you have the Fiat's radio code, you can type it in using the infotainment controls.
Most radios display "ENTER CODE", "----" or "XXXX" message when they are locked.
You typically use the number keys to input the code.
After entering the full code, the radio will unlock automatically.
Try not to make mistakes, because too many wrong attempts can temporarily lock the radio.
It allows a few incorrect tries before showing a SAFE message.
You can reset the lockout by keeping the ignition on for 60 minutes or a set waiting period.
Frequently Asked Questions about Fiat 500L 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 serial number lookup.
The only free possibility would be to search your car 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.