01 Civic stereo error question

I got my Civic worked on the other day and when I picked it up the code
message was displaying. I don't have the sticker with my code on it
and I was wondering if I replaced the factory stereo with an
aftermarket stereo would it work without the code? Might be a stupid
question but I need to know! Thanks!

 

It is an anti-theft mechanism that is programmed into the stereo system, it
does not do anything with the car, as soon as the power to stereo is
disconnected it won't start anymore wihtout its code. Unless the thief is a
good hacker to break the code.

 

The code is in the radio head unit itself. If you replace the radio with an
aftermarket one, there will be no need for a code.

You don't need to buy a new radio just because of the code (unless you
really want one and are just looking for a reason). A Honda dealer can look
up the code for you if you give them the serial number of the radio. Some
of the newer Honda radios will display their serial number without having to
remove the radio from the car to find it.

Try holding in the 1 and 6 buttons while you turn on the radio. If your
radio has this feature, it will display its serial number. There are two
halves to the number that should alternately flash on the radio screen.

If you don't have this "feature" on your radio, you will need to take it out
and find the serial number sticker on it.