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How To Reset a Pioneer Car Radio?

By Author Norvan Martin

Posted on Last updated:

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Pioneer has been pioneering great products for a long time including car radios. In this article, we will be discussing how you can reset a Pioneer car radio. The steps to do so are simple and may vary depending on the model of the radio.

The steps to reset a Pioneer AVH and DEH differ from each other. In general, you have to turn the radio on, locate the reset button, hold the reset button for some seconds, and wait for the radio to reset.

In this article, we will explain in-depth by following a step-by-step approach. Here is a glimpse of what we will do: 

  • Resetting The Car Radio
  • How To Reset Different Models Of The Car Radios:

                       – Pioneer Single DIN Receivers

                       – Pioneer Double DIN Receivers

                       – Pioneer AVH 

                       – Pioneer DEH 

Now, we explain every step in detail. Let’s get started.

Before you continue, you can also check out our similar guides in the series:

Resetting The Car Radio

Here is how you can reset the car radio:

Step 1. Turn Off The Radio

Begin by turning off the radio. Remove the detachable faceplate in case the radio has one. 

Step 2. Find the Reset Button

Check if the reset button is on the front panel or the back of the radio. It is a small button with CLR or Reset label on it. 

Step 3. Press and Hold The Reset Button

Use a screwdriver, pen, or a paper clip and press and hold the reset button for a few seconds. 

Step 4. Wait for the Radio to Reset

Now, wait for it to reset. Release the Reset button and wait for the radio to reboot. This may take a few seconds to a minute.

Step 5. Setup the Radio

After the radio reboots, you may need to go through the initial setup process to restore your preferred settings.

Pioneer car radio

How To Reset Different Models Of Car Radios?

Now, we will see how you can reset different models of Pioneer’s car radios. The steps have been explained below for every model:

Pioneer Single DIN Receivers

The steps are:

  • Switch the radio off and remove the faceplate. 
  • Use a pointed object like a pen or a paper clip and press the Reset button for a few seconds. 
  • Now, wait to hear a clicking sound from the radio. 
  • Once you listen to it, release the button and put everything back in its place. 
  • You can use this method for any model: from MVH-S522BS to DEH-S6220BS.

Pioneer Double DIN Receivers

The steps are:

  • Locate the Reset Hold. In some cases, it can be above the USB port.
  • The button’s position may vary so that you can use the manual. 
  • Once the Reset button is found, press it for a few seconds and then release it.
  • This is applicable to all FH and MVH models.

Pioneer AVH

The steps are:

  • Press the gear icon. You can also choose settings.
  • Now, press the “Wrench and Screwdriver” key.
  • You will see “Reset Car Stereo Audio Settings” and “Restore Car Stereo Audio Settings.” Choose either of the options.
  • You will be taken to the sub-menus, where you can make changes before resetting the radio. 
  • On the bottom, click Reset.

Pioneer DEH

The steps are:

  • Locate the SRC button. SRC means “Source.”
  • Press the SRC button. 
  • Then hold it for a few seconds. The screen will display Reset. 
  • Now, at the same time, press the selector button, and while pressing both keys, you will notice “System Reset” on the screen—release after seeing the message. 
  • Turn the volume halfway down. This will turn the sound off. 
  • Now, turn it on, and you will hear two beeps, which can take some time. 

FAQs

1. How to reset the Pioneer touchscreen radio?

To reset the Pioneer touchscreen radio, do the following:

  • Go to settings.
  • Click the “Wrench and Screwdriver.”
  • Scroll down to “Restore Settings.”
  • A message will tell you that you are about to reboot the system.
  • Click on Reset. 
  • Now, wait for the resetting to complete. While it is processing, please do not stop the application or close it. 
  • The radio will be set to fresh settings, asking you to choose your language, etc. 

2. How to reset the Pioneer Bluetooth car stereo?

To reset the Pioneer Bluetooth car stereo, do the following:

  • Press the SRC (Source) button. This will put the stereo in demo mode. 
  • Now, press the rotator, and it will display the menu. 
  • Rotate it until you reach System Reset. 
  • Again click the rotator. This way, you will choose the option Yes. 
  • “Resetting” is displayed on the screen, and the system will start resetting.
  • It will take some time to process. Once complete, you will see the clock blinking, a sign depicting that your stereo has been reset. 

3. How to reset the stereo Pioneer wma/mp3?

To reset the stereo Pioneer wma/mp3, do the following:

  • Turn the car ignition on.
  • Then, switch your stereo off.
  • Press the SRC button for a long until the resetting and blinking clock doesn’t appear. By pressing the SRC button, your stereo is reset. 

4. How to reset the Pioneer mixtrax Bluetooth? 

To reset the stereo Pioneer wma/mp3, do the following:

  • Press and hold the SRC button until the radio switches to demo mode. The word ‘demo’ will flash on the screen.
  • Locate the rocker dial or selector on the head unit and hold it down until the word Initial shows on the display.
  • Select Initial by pressing down on the selector.
  • From there, select the System Reset option with either the button or the rocker switch.

Conclusion

So, in summary, resetting a Pioneer car radio can be a quick and easy solution to address certain issues, such as frozen screens or audio glitches. While the specific steps to reset a Pioneer car radio may vary depending on the model and type, the general process involves turning off the radio, locating the reset button, pressing and holding the button, waiting for the radio to reset, and then setting it up again.

It’s important to consult the user manual or contact Pioneer customer support for additional guidance if the issue persists or if you’re unsure about the reset process for your particular model. Overall, resetting a Pioneer car radio is a straightforward process that can help resolve common problems and restore your audio system to working condition.

For more information, check out our guide on how to unlock a car radio without the code.