Get "CODE" message after battery disconnect. But can only use pre-set 4

the computer will store any codes until cleared. you can clear the computer memory by disconnecting battery for 1 min. but the code may reset if there is a true problem and not just a momentary anomaly.

Try this link for information on you Pre-Safe problems.
http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-does-mercedes-pre-safe-work-6535.html

Not sure but you may need to have the computer reset ?

With Fords in Australia you disconnect the battery for 2 minutes, then when you connect the battery and turn the radio on it will ask for the code, press you channel pre-set buttons, 1>6 across the front of the stereo using your code, then your radio should work, Merry Christmas

If you've entered a bad code a couple times, you need to wait an hour while the radio and ignition are on. Then, turn on the radio, SAFE should be displayed. Then Press the FM1 button and hold it down, then while holding down the FM1 button, press and hold the AM buttons so that both buttons are held down simultaneously. Release the buttons. Now enter the correct code using the radio pre-set station buttons (one through 4). Button 1 changes the first digit in the code "1"000, Button "two" changes the second digit in the code 1"0" "three" 00, button changes the third digit, button 4 changes the last digit in the code. In most cases the first digit is a 1 and won't need to be changed. You push each pre-set station button multiple times to step through the digits (1-9) to get the correct code displayed.
Code 1246 would entered by pushing button "2" two times, pushing button 3 four times, and pushing button 4, six times.

After entering the correct security code, push and hold down the FM1 and AM button simultaneously as before until SAFE is displayed, then release the 2 buttons, and now the radio should now work.

I just had this happen today when I jump started my car due to leaving my head lights on. Call the honda dealership you got your car from, or if you bought it privately just call a honda dealership. They will tell you to press and hold the pre-set buttons 2 & 6 and it will give you a number, they will type it into their computer and they will be able to give you the code. You have to use the pre-set buttons on the radio to enter the code. That will fix the problem... If you already entered to many wrong codes it will not allow you to enter anymore... You will have to either wait an hour and then it will reset again and let you enter the code or you can disconnect the battery for 5-10 mins, reconnect it and then the radio will reset and ask you for the code again. Good luck guys!

Do you have a 1, 2 or 4 wire plug?

This maybe a little tricky. You need to make sure you have the proper radio code so you can reset after you disconnect the batery. Once you have mad esure you have the code and the battery is disconnected, double check all your connections under the seat. This is telling you there is a hard code recognized. If you do not have the radio code, you will need to call the dealer with vin and then write it in the back of the owner's handbook or somewhere else safe.

Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery for 3 minutes, and try again. The error message shouldnt be on when you insert the radio code, it wont work. I sure hope that the battery inside the radio didnt die, because it wont be able to retain the code, or the station presets. You will be amazed at how much better the aftermarket radios are. If unable to bring it back to life, do not hesitate replacing it with a well known brand. Most come with inputs to play pendrives and Ipods.

Try this, disconnect the negative battery cable from the battery, wait 10 to 20 minutes, and reconnect. maybe , maybe not. but worth a try

"2 safe" means that your radio was in safe mode, and then the code was improperly entered 2 times. you either need to disconnect your battery and leave it for up to 4 hours (i've been told), or leave your key in the ignition for around an hour.

once it comes out of "2 safe" mode, then it will just say SAFE and give you the numbers 1-0-0-0. You just need to enter the 4 digit code (using your pre-set numbers 1-2-3-4 to change the numbers), then hold the seek > button and your radio should come on.

If you don't have the code, call VW. they'll find your code for free. they did for me. if not they'll charge like $50 or something.