Anti-theft audio system and instrument cluster language (BMW 5 Series E28)

General information

Some models are equipped with an audio system that has a security code. If the power cable of such a stereo is cut, it will not work, even if it is immediately reconnected. If your car has such a system, do not disconnect the battery cable or remove the stereo until you have entered the special code number.

For more information about this audio system and its protective device, please refer to your vehicle's Owner's Manual.

System shutdown procedure

Turn off the radio. The word "CODE" will appear on the display.

Using the receiver's setup buttons, enter the five-digit code. If you make a mistake when entering the code, continue dialing the five digits. If you hear a beep, stop dialing the code immediately and start entering it from the beginning.

You have three attempts to enter the correct code. If it is not entered after three attempts, you will have to wait for an hour with the radio on to try again.

If the code is entered correctly, the word "CODE" should disappear from the display and the radio should continue to operate (You must, however, tune it to the station).

If you have lost or forgotten your code number, please contact your BMW service dealer.

Instrument cluster display language

On some recent models, disconnecting the battery may cause the instrument cluster display to default to German (this does not apply to UK models). If it is necessary to reset the instrument cluster language after disconnecting the battery, perform the following procedures: Close all doors and turn on the ignition (do not start the engine), then press the setup button until the panel displays the language you want. You can choose from eight languages. If you want to bypass a language, release the setup button and press it again - the display will move to the next language. After selecting the desired language, continue holding the setup button until the display displays the following: "I.O. Version 2.0". Continue holding the setup button until the message appears "H.P. Version 3.4", then release the button.