Secret Mode on 2008 - 2009 Scion Base Pioneer Head Unit
Have you changed your welcome message?
Ok, this is a quick guide on how to enter the secret mode on your 2008 - 2009 Scion xB, tC, or xD base model Pioneer head unit in order to change the welcome message displayed when you turn on your Scion.
Before you go any further, remember that this is for the base model head unit ONLY. The buttons on the upgraded stereos are different, so these instructions will not work. Also, this is for the 2008 and 2009 models only - the entire OEM head unit was changed in 2010.
The 2008 - 2009 Scion base Pioneer head unit is shown below.
Here are the steps:
Before you try to attempt this, read through this many times so you know exactly what you will be doing next, because your time is limited. Make sure you have both hands free and that you can reach the key and the radio at the same time.
Make sure you know what you want it to say before you start!
The max number of characters you can use is 16!
Step 1: Make sure your radio is off. If it's not, turn the car on, turn the radio off, and then turn the car off.
Step 2: Tuen the key to ACC, turn the radio on, and turn the car off.
Step 3: Press and hold the MUTE button and then turn the key to ACC (while still holding down MUTE). A flat line will come across the screen and start flashing. You can now let go of the MUTE button.
Step 4: Press "PRESET 1" within 15 seconds and hold it down while you turn the key off. Now, you will see the letter "A" on the display.
Step 5: Use the buttons "PRESET 3" and "PRESET 4" to change the letters and numbers. When you have the character you want, press "PRESET 6" to confirm that spot and move to the next place. (If you need to delete a character, press "PRESET 5".)
Step 6: Once you have finished your message, press and hold "PRESET 6" for 5 seconds to lock in your welcome message.
Have fun with it! Once you understand the steps, it's quite easy. If you mess up, don't worry and just start over.
Print this article off and take it with you when you try it. It'll be a lot easier.
Thanks for reading.
