How to Find the Serial N. on a Avenger's Radio
The only thing you'll need to get the code is your radio's unit serial. No VIN is needed.
On many Dodge models, you can find it in these common spots:
- Visible on the radio screen (sometimes by using button combinations)
- On the radio unit itself - you'll need to remove the unit slightly and write down serial (which is fairly easy)
Search for something like: Serial Num. or SN.
1. Find the S/N on Dodge Avenger's Display
The Dodge Avenger (2011–2014) has a year-dependent split you need to check first. Here's the breakdown at a glance:
2011–2012 Avenger
Older Uconnect hardware without Dealer Mode. Physical removal required. Serial label is on the top or side of the radio chassis.
2013–2014 Avenger (with 8.4" screen)
Hold Fan Up + Fan Down + Front Defrost for 5 seconds → Dealer Mode.
OR: hold Temp Up + Temp Down for 5 seconds → Engineering Menu. Then: System Info → Radio Part Info → Serial Number.
Base Avenger trims from 2013–2014 with a 5" display may not support Dealer Mode either — if nothing happens, see the removal guide. Serial format: 14 characters, e.g. T00AM394958584.
2. Finding the S/N on the Radio Sticker
The serial number is usually printed on a label attached to the head unit.
Step 1: Turn off the the ignition.
Step 2: After that, remove the dashboard trim.
Step 3: Then release the mounting clips.
Step 4: Carefully slide the unit out partially (Be careful not to damage the connections).
Step 5: Look for the serial on the side of the unit.
Step 6: Write down the full Serial Number carefully and come back here so that we can generate the code.
Important: Differentiate the Serial Number and the Part Number!
Accessing the Serial Number in Dodge Avenger
Good news—the Avenger has the easiest radio removal process in the entire Dodge lineup. The entire trim is held by snap clips with no screws on the bezel. An experienced person can complete this in about 10 minutes.
Removal Process:
- Remove the top panel above the air vents—secured by clips, pry gently with a plastic tool.
- Remove the radio trim ring—also held by clips. Start from the right side and work around the perimeter.
- Remove the radio—secured by 4 Torx T-20 screws (NOT Phillips!).
Tools needed: Torx T-20 driver, plastic pry tool
Example: Dodge Avenger serial number label location
Usual Serial Formats on Dodge Avenger Radios
Your Dodge Avenger radio serial may be in T00AM format (14 characters, e.g. T00AM394958584), TM9 format (e.g. TM9123456789), or A2C format on newer Uconnect systems. The serial is printed on a label on the radio housing.
Common Dodge Avenger Radio Code Situations
Many drivers encounter radio code issues on their Avenger after electrical work.
Below are the most typical situations when this can occur.
Radio Asking for Code After Battery Swap
When the battery is removed, the Dodge Avenger radio locks automatically.
This factory protection system is designed to protect the original head unit by disabling the radio after electrical reset.
More Events That Can Lock Your Avenger's Radio
- Installing a used head unit will trigger the original anti-theft code.
- After an ECU or software reset, the radio may enter security mode.
- A blown fuse can cause the Dodge Avenger radio to lock.
- Jump-starting the vehicle can trigger anti-theft mode, requiring the unlock code.
Free Things to Try
There is a chance your Dodge Avenger radio code is already somewhere in your car.
Before spending money, quickly check the places below - you might be surprised.
Check the Glovebox Documents
- Near the spare tire, where some manufacturers place radio labels.
- In the maintenance records provided with the car.
- On the head unit casing if the unit was previously removed.
- In the owner's handbook, often on a separate code card.
- On a label in the glove compartment.
Dealer Retrieval Option
Dealerships can retrieve your radio code by checking the VIN in their system.
They typically require proof of ownership before sharing the security PIN.
This is the official way to restore access to the factory radio.
Potential Downsides:
- Some imported or older radios may not be in their database.
- You may need to visit the dealer during business hours.
- The lookup is often slower and may require waiting.
- Dealers frequently bill for the code (It may cost more than 100$).
How to Enter the Radio Code on Dodge Avenger
With your code ready, it's time to enter it into the Dodge Avenger's radio.
The locked radio will usually show a "CODE" prompt.
Use the radio presets or a rotary dial to dial in each digit, then confirm to unlock the stereo.
The Avenger has several unusual characteristics when it comes to code entry—it differs from all other Dodge models:
- Turn on the ignition—the display shows "CODE".
- Use preset buttons 1-4 to cycle through digits for each position.
- Unique to Avenger: Press the TAPE or AUX button to confirm (NOT the ENTER/OK button like other models).
Avenger-Specific Lockout Behavior:
- You get 10 incorrect attempts before lockout (other Dodge models lock after 3).
- The lockout period is 1 hour (other models lock for 30 minutes).
- Shortcut: You can pull the radio fuse to instantly reset the lockout without waiting the full hour.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dodge Avenger Unlock Code
Not all of them require a radio code, but many factory radios use it as an security measure.
Certain series may not require a code depending on the head unit.
Yes. Each radio unit has its own unlock code.
A used radio will need its original code to work.
Free codes are uncommon.
You might locate the code in the owner's booklet or from a service center, but most require a serial number lookup.
Uconnect is the infotainment system developed by Stellantis (formerly Fiat Chrysler Automobiles) and used across Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Fiat, and Alfa Romeo vehicles. Most Uconnect radios feature an anti-theft protection system that activates whenever the radio loses power – for example after a battery replacement, a dead battery, or electrical work.
When triggered, the radio displays "ENTER CODE" and will not function until the correct 4-digit unlock code is entered. The code is permanently tied to the radio's serial number, not the vehicle's VIN, which is why finding the serial number is the first step to unlocking.
Yes, for most vehicles. Uconnect systems from 2013 onwards include a hidden Dealer Mode (or Engineering Mode) diagnostic menu that shows the serial number right on the display. You can access it by holding specific button combinations – no tools or radio removal required.
However, some 2020+ models may have had Dealer Mode disabled via software updates. If you cannot access the on-screen menu, the radio must be physically removed to read the serial number label on the unit. See our full Dealer Mode guide for step-by-step instructions with video tutorials.