Radio code Citroën Xsara Picasso

The Citroën Xsara Picasso introduced the concept of the compact MPV on the established Xsara platform in 1999. Roomy, practical, and clever for its time. With a production run through to 2010, many examples had been on the road for a good decade before they ever needed a battery change. But when that time comes, the familiar RD3 is ready and waiting with its four dashes on the display.

The Xsara Picasso (1999–2010) used a single radio platform throughout its entire production period: the RD3 from the PSA system (Peugeot-Citroën-Automobiles).

This radio was supplied by two manufacturers:

Clarion — the most common variant. Recognisable by the Clarion logo and the C7 serial number on the sticker. The Clarion RD3 is easily decodable via the serial number.

VDO (Siemens VDO) — the second variant, without a recognisable logo on the front panel. The serial number uses a proprietary Siemens format. In later versions the VDO RD3 is sometimes VIN-linked — in that case the serial number is less directly usable and a dealer is required.

The RD3 is single-DIN and protected with a four-digit code.

The RD3 locks after every power interruption:

• Battery replacement or a flat battery
• Disconnecting the battery for maintenance
• Replacing a fuse in the radio circuit

The display shows "CODE" and waits silently for the correct entry.

The serial number is on a sticker on the side of the radio unit — left or right, depending on how it is mounted.

• Clarion RD3: starts with C7, 12 characters in total, e.g. C70000001234
• VDO RD3: proprietary format, also on the sticker on the side

You need to slide the radio out of the dashboard a little to reach the sticker.

The RD3 sits in a standard DIN bracket. You'll need DIN release keys.

A quirk of the Xsara Picasso: the radio sits centrally in the centre console, which gives a slightly different access angle than in standard compact cars. In practice this makes little difference to the removal procedure, but bear in mind that you'll need a bit more room to insert the release keys properly.

Step by step:

Once you have the four-digit code:

On the Clarion RD3 there are usually several attempts available, with a temporary lockout possible after an incorrect attempt. In that case, wait half an hour with the ignition on.

On the VDO/Siemens RD3 the situation is less predictable. Some versions lock permanently after several incorrect attempts. Never enter the code as a lucky guess.

The Xsara (saloon/hatchback, 1997–2005) has a similar radio but differs in its mounting environment. The procedures are largely the same. The Picasso, however, has a roomier centre console, which sometimes makes removal easier.

With the C7 serial number or the VDO serial number from your Xsara Picasso radio, you can request the official unlock code directly online.

Order your Citroën Xsara Picasso radio code via RadioCodeLookup.com →