Obtaining Vin Codes?

[LairdM]

Tried searching but 'search words not permitted'...  :wacko:

 

The CD player in my 51 Xsara Picasso needs replacing as it just scratches the CD to buggery and then stops. :(  :angry:

 

I'm looking to get a replacement, but been told I need a 'VIN' code, (thought that was used by supermarkets and off-licences to say how sweet/dry your wine was... :D). 

 

Presumably I can get one of these from my local dealer? Will it be at 'dealer' prices?

[Johndouglas]

I'm looking to get a replacement, but been told I need a 'VIN' code,

Is it your VIN they need?   If so, you'll find it on your reg. document for the car or in a little box at the bottom right of your windscreen.   It's a 17 digit number beginning VF7

[LairdM]

I wouldn't have thought so cause anyone could then nick your stereo, take a copy of the number and sorted! Also 17 digits for a stereo code seems a bit excessive - the radios for my Rovers were only 4 digits.

[paul.h]

The Citroen radios are linked to the car on which they were first installed and do not use a PIN type security code for such as if the battery was disconnected. So if they are removed, they will not work on another car - so one from a breakers could not be used. So the need for the car VIN is probably needed so the new one can be coded to your car - it will be more complicated than just entering the VIN in the radio, otherwise as you say, the anti theft precaution is gone.

 

As mentioned above, the easiest place to see your VIN (chassis no) is at the bottom right of the windscreen. It is also stamped into the bodywork in a few places and is on the V5C registration document.

[LairdM]

So how come breakers sell them and they're available on ebay? Surely it'd be fraud?

So if they are removed, they will not work on another car - so one from a breakers could not be used. 

[paul.h]

http://www.citroenpicasso.org.uk/picasso/index.php?/topic/19698-replacing-one-picasso-cdradio-with-another/ This link to our other site for the Picasso gives a bit of info plus an internet search comes up with companies who can code Citroen radios if you provide the VIN or radio serial no. One from a breakers (or a stolen one) would need some coding done on it before it could work in another car - presumably one of these companies could do it and must be worth an enquiry if considering using a radio from a breakers. Based on the above link, you may need the breaker car VIN as well as your own VIN. Citroen parts diagrams say the car VIN is needed when ordering a radio, presumably the new radio would then be supplied already coded for your car.

[paul.h]

A quick look on ebay shows some of the ads do mention the radio will need to be coded, maybe the others will mention it if you buy one.