The tape-cassette player in your 1996 Honda Accord is displaying the "Code" message because it has entered anti-theft mode. This mode is activated when the battery is disconnected or replaced, and it requires a code to be entered before the player will function again.
Here's how to fix this issue:
*1. Locate the code card or sticker:* The code for your tape cassette player is a 5-digit number that was provided to you when you purchased the vehicle. It should be on a card or sticker in your vehicle's owner's manual or in the glove compartment.
*2. Enter the code:* Press the preset buttons on the tape deck in the following sequence to enter the code:
*
- Press 1 the number of times corresponding to the first digit of your code.
- Press 2 the number of times corresponding to the second digit of your code.
- Press 3 the number of times corresponding to the third digit of your code.
- Press 4 the number of times corresponding to the fourth digit of your code.
- Press 5 the number of times corresponding to the fifth digit of your code.
*For example, if your code is 12345, you would press 1 once, press 2 twice, press 3 three times, press 4 four times, and press 5 five times.*
*3. The radio should now be unlocked, and you should be able to use it normally. **
