03 Silverado Radio "Theftlock" System
 

Hey guys,
I'm looking at putting an aftermarket radio in the truck, my question is about the theftlock feature. I know the radio learns a portion of the VIN number, and if its removed and put in a different vehicle it will not work. All I need to know is if I remove it, will it still work if I have to put it back in.

Thanks

Re: 03 Silverado Radio "Theftlock" System
 

I'm pretty sure you have to enable theftlock before it will do anything to the radio. If it is enabled, you just have to enter your code at startup. I took the factory radio out and reinstalled it a couple times without any problems on my '02. I can't say for sure, but I think you will be alright.

Re: 03 Silverado Radio "Theftlock" System
 

Unfortunately on the 03 and newer chevy trucks and suvs the radio has to be programmed thru the data link/obdII port with the gm diagnostic scanner. Your radio will not work in another vehicle unless it is programed to do so, however you can take it out of your vehicle and reinstall it as many times as you want and you will not have to reprogram the radio. I found this out the hard way with my dads wifes 03 silverado, had it been an 02 or older i could have simply entered a code on the face of the radio. GM did this so if for some reason someone where to take the effort and time to steal a factory radio they would not be able to use it under any circumstance unless the paid a dealer to reprogram it.