Questions and Answers

Lexus Audio Security Code Q. I changed the battery in my 1990 Lexus ES 250 (2.5 Liter, 6 cylinder with A/T, FI, ABS, P/S, A/C & CC) and can't get the radio security system to reset. You are suppose to start with the radio off in ACC key position and press buttons 1 & 6 while holding the on/off/volume switch.

You are to hold until the "SEC" on the radio display starts blinking. Then you go through a procedure to enter your security code. I read the procedure before starting and turned the radio off when the key was in the ACC position, then replaced the battery. When I turned the car on to start the security procedure the radio displayed the "SEC" on the radio display. I've tried everything to get the "SEC" display to start blinking, but it doesn't. How does one reset the radio security system on this car?

A. Okay, this is what you got.

An Audio Anti-Theft Security System has been incorporated in all Lexus audio units. If battery power is lost after a Security Code ID Number has been entered, the audio unit will be disabled and the correct security code ID number will be needed for reactivation.

Security System Activation:
The Audio Anti-Theft Security System is activated by entering a three digit security code ID number.

Identifying Activated Security System:
To identify whether an audio unit has its Anti-Theft Security System activated, perform the following: Observe the unit's LED display while turning the ignition key from "Lock" to "ACC". If "SEC" displays before the normal radio display (approximately 1 second) the security system has been activated.

Service Precautions:
If the Audio Anti-Theft Security System is activated, take the following precautions:

1. Obtain the three-digit security code ID number from the customer.
2. Deactivate the Audio Anti-Theft Security System before disconnecting the battery, removing the radio/dome fuses, or removing the audio unit.

NOTE:

1. Disconnecting the battery power to an audio unit with an AntiTheft Security System will disable the audio unit.
2. If the battery power is reconnected to this audio unit, "SEC" will continuously display regardless of whether the audio unit is ON/OFF.

So if the SEC display is on steady, you will have to go to the dealer with your security code and they will have to reactivate the audio unit.

Additional Information provided courtesy of ALLDATA