You can find a 2012 Acura TL radio code on a decal inside the glovebox or the underside of the engine compartment fuse box. If there isn’t a radio code decal, find the code by using the Acura online lookup tool with your VIN and radio serial number.

Did you know that replacing or recharging a dead car battery can lock you out of the stereo system? It’s a bleak consequence of an already frustrating and potentially expensive situation, but thankfully it has an easy enough fix—if you know the radio code.

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Why your 2012 Acura TL needs a radio code

It can be strange to need a code to listen to your music or podcasts if you’ve never seen a “CODE” message on your radio display. That cryptic one-liner may seem like it’s only preventing your one-on-one voice lessons with Beyoncé’s discography—but it actually has more noble intentions.

The need for a radio code after your stereo system is disconnected from the battery deters radio theft. However, this security feature can’t distinguish your misfortune with your car’s battery from a stereo thief. So, you may need the radio code even if your radio is never at risk of theft.

MORE:

The best vehicle anti-theft devices to keep your car safe

How to find your 2012 Acura TL radio code

That isn’t the worst circumstance, though, since finding your 2012 Acura TL radio code is relatively simple.

You’ll want to look for the radio code decal that can be found in several places:

Inside the glove box

Underneath the engine compartment fuse box cover

In the owner’s manual

In the vehicle’s maintenance journal

On the door jamb

On the trunk jamb

The decal you’re searching for should have two codes, with something along the lines of “Anti-Theft Radio Identification” written on it. The radio code will be the one with only five digits, while the other is your radio serial number.

How to look up a 2012 Acura TL radio code

So, what happens if there seems to be no sticker in sight and your owner’s manual was lost long ago? Don’t despair! You can find your radio code using the radio serial number and

Acura's vehicle identification number (VIN)

Since the radio code sticker is nowhere to be found, you won’t be able to seek that out for the serial number. Instead, turn your ignition on, press and hold the 1 and 6 preset buttons on your radio, then press the radio’s power button.

You will see two values flash on the display: the first showing the letter U and four digits, the second showing the letter L and four digits. The four digits after U are the first half of the serial number, and the four digits after L are the last half.

For example, if your display blinks “U2200” then “L0055,” your radio serial number will be 22000055.

Your VIN can be found in a number of places, including the lower driver’s side of the windshield, the vehicle’s registration, your insurance card or statement, and Acura Financial Services statements.

After noting your radio serial number and VIN, look up your 2012 Acura TL radio code using

Acura’s online code lookup

or calling (800) 382-2238 Monday through Friday from 6:00 am to 5:00 pm PT.

If all else should fail, or you’d simply prefer to speak face to face with a person, head to your local Acura dealership and explain your needs to a technician so they can help you locate the right code.

MORE:

Do I need sound system insurance?

How to upgrade your car insurance coverage

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