Battery died...Engine Disable Code?

[Wusthof]

1999 996. The car has been in storage for the last 6 months. My buddy was supposed to be starting it periodically but let it sit to long. The battery is apparently dead now. I will probably just have him replace that, but does anyone have any guidance on entering the radio/engine code. I seem to remember that if the battery dies a code needs to be entered into the radio. Is that just to make the radio work again, or will the car be disabled as well if the code isnt entered?

[Loren]

The car should not be disabled. If the battery dies and the car is locked you will need to unlock it manually with a key.

The radio code will need to be reset - it is a 4 digit code that is usually in your manuals, docs, etc. If you do not have the code a dealer can look it up for you with your VIN number and proof of ownership. Some dealers as well as Becker (radio manufacturer) now charge for this service so don't be surprised with they want you pay.

The DME (engine computer) will also be reset so the car may run a little rough when you first start it up. It will "re-learn" it's idle and driveability setpoints during the next few startup and driving sequences.

[de36band]

Similar situation occurred with my 2003 C4S last month. I had to replace battery, but once I did car ran fine and radio worked without having to reprogram with code. Battery was not completely dead though, dash lights still functioned, just would not turn over in zero degree weather after sitting for two months without a start or a trickle charger.

Doug

[Loren]

A MY03 has a CDR-23 radio and no code is needed as it is matched to the car VIN. On a MY99 (actually MY02 and older) the CR-210, CDR-210 and CR-220 and CDR-220 all require a 4 digit code be entered as a security precaution.

[gery]

check your user manuals. I had becker card with radio codes. Or call original dealer, they should have records