How to unlock a genuine car navigation unit
What to do when the unit shows the password screen after a battery change or in a used car. Even without the password, an unlock code issued from the 16-digit number in the hidden menu usually restores it on the spot. It takes a few minutes.
Why the unit locks
Genuine navigation units have an anti-theft security feature. A unit with a registered password can lock when it is removed or the auxiliary battery is replaced. It is not a fault.
Unlocking needs the registered password. In a used car, the previous owner may have set it.
Do not keep trying random numbers. On some units, too many wrong entries block further input and the dealer has to unlock it.
Sources：Carmaker FAQ: the password entry screen appeared and the unit cannot be used (Japanese)／Owner's manual: changing security settings (Japanese)
Two ways to unlock without the password
There are two main options.
Ask the seller or a dealer
- Effort
- Appointment and visit needed
- Time and cost
- Depends on the dealer
- What to bring
- Vehicle registration and similar (check with the dealer)
The carmaker advises contacting the seller or a dealer when the password is unknown.
Unlock it yourself with ERC Calculator
- Effort
- On the spot, no appointment
- Time and cost
- A few minutes. 68 series ¥3,000, older models ¥1,380
- What you need
- An iPhone or iPad and the model number
An unlock code is issued from the 16-digit number in the hidden menu. The steps are below.
What you need
iPhone or iPad
With ERC Calculator installed.
Your model number
Printed on the edge of the unit or in its manual. For example NSZT-W68T.
Stable power
Work with the engine running so the unit does not lose power partway through.
Steps
- 1 Navigation unit
Hold Menu while toggling the headlights three times
Press and hold the physical Menu (or Info) button on the bezel while switching the headlights ON and OFF three times.
- 2 Navigation unit
Tap Service Information
When the diagnostic screen opens, tap Service Information (サービス情報).
- 3 Navigation unit
Tap Next Page
Tap Next Page (次ページ) on the touchscreen to see the remaining menu options.
- 4 Navigation unit
Tap Enter the Security Release Code
Tap Enter the Security Release Code (セキュリティ解除 / ERC).
- 5 Navigation unit
Read the 16-digit serial number
The 16-digit serial number appears on screen. This number is needed to issue your unlock code.
- 6 App
Enter the model and number in the app
In ERC Calculator, choose your model and enter the 16 digits. After purchase your unlock code appears immediately.
If the hidden menu does not open
- Do it with the engine running (or ACC on).
- Keep holding the button until you have finished switching the lights.
- Switch the lights on and off quickly. With automatic headlights, you may need to switch between AUTO and the parking lights.
- On some units an image-adjustment screen opens first. Touching certain points on that screen then opens the hidden menu.
If the code does not work
One of these usually solves it. The same guidance is in the app under "Code not working?".
Hybrid vehicles (68T series)
Tap "Try the hybrid code" in the app to get a hybrid code, once, at no extra cost. Try them in the order shown.
Check the serial number
Look for confusions between 0 and O, or 1 and I. Scanning with the camera avoids this.
SD card and internal memory
Check the map SD card is properly inserted. An internal memory fault can also cause a code to be rejected.
12V battery voltage
Low voltage can stop the unit working correctly. Try again with the engine running.
Questions
Where does the 16-digit number appear?
On the "Enter the Security Release Code" screen in the hidden menu (steps 4 and 5 above). Opening the menu can differ by model.
I bought the car used and do not know the password.
You do not need it. The unlock code is issued from the 16-digit number. Only for units you lawfully own or have the owner's permission to unlock.
How long does it take?
Usually a few minutes. Enter the code, tap Done, and the unit restarts by itself.
Which models are supported?
The 68 series (NSZT-W68T, NSZT-Y68T, NSZN-Z68T, NSCN-W68, NSLN-W68) and some older models. See supported models