Why Does My Honda Radio Say Error E?

If you’ve turned on your car and been greeted by a confusing message, you’re not alone. Many Honda drivers ask, “Why Does My Honda Radio Say Error E?” This error code is a common issue that can lock you out of your audio system, but it’s usually fixable.

This message typically means there’s a security or communication problem within the radio itself. It often happens after a battery change or an electrical glitch. Don’t worry, though. We’ll walk you through the simple steps to get your music and news back.

The “Error E” message on a Honda radio is almost always an anti-theft security feature. Honda radios are electronically paired to your car’s main computer. This is designed to deter theft—if someone steals the radio, it won’t work in another vehicle.

When the radio loses its connection to the vehicle’s ECU (Engine Control Unit) or PCM (Powertrain Control Module), it triggers this error. It’s the radio’s way of saying, “I don’t recognize where I am, so I’m locking up.”

Common Causes of the Error E Message

Knowing what triggers the error is the first step to fixing it. Here are the most frequent culprits:

Battery Disconnection or Failure: This is the #1 cause. If your car battery dies, is disconnected, or is replaced, the radio can lose its “memory” of the vehicle.
Blown Fuse: A fuse specifically for the radio or audio system can blow, interrupting power.
Loose Wiring or Connections: Over time, connectors behind the radio can work loose, especially if the vehicle experiences vibrations.
Faulty Radio Unit: In rarer cases, the internal circuitry of the radio itself can fail, causing the error.
Electrical Surges: Jump-starting the car incorrectly or other electrical spikes can confuse the radio’s computer.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

Follow these steps in order. Start with the simplest solution before moving to more involved ones.

Step 1: The Simple Radio Reset

Often, the fix is as easy as resetting the unit. This re-establishes the communication link.

Turn your ignition to the “ON” position (II). Don’t start the engine.
Turn on the radio. The “Error E” message should be displayed.
Press and hold the radio’s power button for at least 5 to 10 seconds. Sometimes you need to hold it longer, up to 30 seconds.
Release the button. The radio may turn off and then back on. Check if the error is gone.

If that didn’t work, don’t get discouraged. The next step is very common.

Step 2: Check and Reset Related Fuses

A blown fuse can cause a partial power loss that triggers the error. You’ll need to locate your car’s fuse boxes. Common locations are under the dashboard on the driver’s side and under the hood.

Find your owner’s manual to identify the correct fuses. Look for fuses labeled “Radio,” “Audio,” “ACC,” or “IG.”
Use the fuse puller tool (usually in the under-hood box) to remove each relevant fuse.
Inspect the metal strip inside the fuse. If it’s broken or melted, the fuse is blown.
Replace any blown fuses with a new one of the exact same amperage.
After replacing fuses, try the radio reset from Step 1 again.

Step 3: Perform a Full Vehicle Reset (Battery Reset)

This is the most effective method for clearing the Error E after a battery change. It reboots the car’s entire electrical system.

Turn off the ignition and remove the key.
Open the hood and locate the battery.
Using a wrench, disconnect the negative (black) terminal first. Then disconnect the positive (red) terminal.
Press and hold the car’s horn for about 30 seconds. This drains any remaining power from the system.
Reconnect the battery terminals in reverse order: positive (red) first, then negative (black).
Tighten the connections securely.
Enter your car, turn the ignition to ON (II), and turn on the radio.

For many Hondas, this will clear the error. The radio may ask for a code immediately after—this is normal.

Finding and Entering Your Honda Radio Code

After a successful reset, your radio will likely display “CODE” or “ENTER CODE.” You’ll need the unique 5-digit anti-theft code. Here’s how to get it:

Where to Find Your Radio Code

Glovebox or Manual: Check for a small white card in your owner’s manual booklet. The code is often printed there.
Side of the Glovebox: Sometimes the sticker is on the inside wall of the glove compartment itself.
Online via Honda: Visit the official Honda radio code website. You’ll need your VIN and the radio’s serial number.
Dealership: Your local Honda dealer can provide the code with proof of ownership (VIN and registration).

How to Get the Radio Serial Number

To use Honda’s online tool, you need the radio serial number. With the ignition ON, press and hold buttons 1 and 6 on the radio at the same time. The serial number will appear on the display. Write it down carefully.

Entering the Code

Once “CODE” appears, use the radio preset buttons to enter the 5-digit number.
For example, if your code is 12345, press preset 1, then 2, then 3, then 4, then 5.
After entering the last digit, press the “ENTER” or “✓” button, or hold the volume knob.
The radio should spring to life. If you hear a beep or see “ERR,” the code was wrong. You’ll usually get a few tries before it locks you out for an hour.

When the Basic Fixes Don’t Work

If you’ve tried all the above and the Error E persists, the issue might be more complex.

Check for Loose Connections Behind the Radio

This requires carefully removing the radio trim and unit. If you’re not comfortable, it’s best to consult a professional. Unplugging and firmly re-seating the main wiring harness can sometimes restore the connection.

Potential ECU Communication Failure

In rare instances, there could be a fault in the communication network (CAN bus) between the radio and the car’s main computer. Diagnosing this requires specialized OBD-II scan tools that can read body codes, not just engine codes.

Internal Radio Failure

If everything else checks out—power, fuses, connections, codes—the radio’s internal circuit board may have failed. This is more common in older models. At this point, repair or replacement is the only option.

Preventing the Error E Message in the Future

Write Down Your Code: Store your radio code in a safe place separate from the car, like in your phone’s notes or a file at home.
Use a Memory Saver: When replacing the battery, connect a 9V memory saver to the OBD-II port or cigarette lighter to keep constant power to the radio and ECU.
Secure Battery Connections: Ensure battery terminals are clean and tight to prevent intermittent power loss.
Address Electrical Issues Promptly: If you notice other electrical gremlins, have them checked to prevent surges.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What does Error E mean on a Honda radio?

It’s an anti-theft lockout mode. The radio has lost its verification link with the car’s computer, usually due to a power loss.

Can I fix the Honda radio Error E myself?

Yes, in most cases. The battery reset procedure followed by entering your radio code solves the problem about 90% of the time.

Where is the Honda radio code located?

Look on a card in your owner’s manual kit, on a sticker inside the glovebox, or get it online from Honda using your VIN and radio serial number.

Why did my radio show Error E after a jump start?

An improper jump start (wrong cable connection order) can cause a voltage spike that disrupts the radio’s memory. A full battery reset should correct it.

Is it safe to drive with the Error E display?

Yes, it’s safe to drive. The error only affects the audio system. Your car’s other functions will operate normally. It’s just an inconvenience.

What if my radio doesn’t accept the code?

Double-check you have the correct serial number and code. If you enter the wrong code too many times, the radio will lock. You must leave the ignition ON for up to an hour to reset the attempt counter, then try the correct code again.

Could a faulty alternator cause Error E?

Indirectly, yes. A failing alternator that causes low or fluctuating voltage can confuse the car’s electronics, potentially triggering the error along with other warning lights.

Final Thoughts

The “Error E” message on your Honda radio is frustrating, but it’s rarely a sign of a major or expensive problem. The solution almost always involves restoring power and re-establishing the security handshake with your correct anti-theft code.

Start with the simple reset, move to the battery disconnect method, and have your code ready. By following the logical steps outlined here, you can save a trip to the dealership and get your tunes playing again quickly. Remember to keep that radio code in a safe place—you’ll probably need it again someday if the battery ever dies.