10-05-2025, 06:45 PM
Incident Summary
A Komatsu WB97R-2 backhoe loader has become immobilized due to its anti-theft system being engaged. The transmission is locked, and the operator no longer has the 4-digit security code required to disable the anti-theft lock. This situation essentially prevents any operation until the anti-theft code is correctly entered.
Anti-Theft System on Komatsu Backhoes
Komatsu backhoes in the WB9x series incorporate an electronic anti-theft or “safety code” system. Before shutdown, an operator who knows the code can activate this system by pressing a dedicated button for more than three seconds. Once engaged, the next time the engine is started, the system demands that the correct 4-digit pin code be input before gear functions (and thus transmission movement) will be allowed. This feature aims to prevent unauthorized use of the machine.
In the corresponding Komatsu (and related) models like WB97S-2, the control panel includes:
The pin code is generally tied to the serial number (S/N) stamped on the machine’s casing. Contrary to what some operators hope, Komatsu dealers typically do not store or record each machine’s safety code. In inquiries about this issue, Komatsu Australia indicated they do not keep those PINs.
Because the code is not retrievable from the manufacturer in most cases, gaining access again requires locating the original code (if written somewhere on the machine), or in some rare cases, replacing the control module or performing an approved reset via a Komatsu dealer’s diagnostic tool (if supported).
Steps to Enter or Reset the Code
Based on user reports and model documentation, the following procedure is generally used to enter (or re-enter) the anti-theft pin:
Challenges & Limitations
The Komatsu WB97R-2’s anti-theft system is a security feature tied to a 4-digit PIN code entered via the machine’s control interface at startup. Once the code is lost or forgotten, operations are blocked until correct entry or authorized service reset. Because Komatsu does not store those PINs, the burden lies on owners to protect, record, and retain those security codes or risk immobilization of their machine.
A Komatsu WB97R-2 backhoe loader has become immobilized due to its anti-theft system being engaged. The transmission is locked, and the operator no longer has the 4-digit security code required to disable the anti-theft lock. This situation essentially prevents any operation until the anti-theft code is correctly entered.
Anti-Theft System on Komatsu Backhoes
Komatsu backhoes in the WB9x series incorporate an electronic anti-theft or “safety code” system. Before shutdown, an operator who knows the code can activate this system by pressing a dedicated button for more than three seconds. Once engaged, the next time the engine is started, the system demands that the correct 4-digit pin code be input before gear functions (and thus transmission movement) will be allowed. This feature aims to prevent unauthorized use of the machine.
In the corresponding Komatsu (and related) models like WB97S-2, the control panel includes:
- A safety code push button (for toggling anti-theft on/off)
- A display and LEDs indicating the state (e.g. green LED when anti-theft is active)
- UP/DOWN buttons to select each digit of the 4-digit code
- A DIM or confirm button to confirm each digit entry
The pin code is generally tied to the serial number (S/N) stamped on the machine’s casing. Contrary to what some operators hope, Komatsu dealers typically do not store or record each machine’s safety code. In inquiries about this issue, Komatsu Australia indicated they do not keep those PINs.
Because the code is not retrievable from the manufacturer in most cases, gaining access again requires locating the original code (if written somewhere on the machine), or in some rare cases, replacing the control module or performing an approved reset via a Komatsu dealer’s diagnostic tool (if supported).
Steps to Enter or Reset the Code
Based on user reports and model documentation, the following procedure is generally used to enter (or re-enter) the anti-theft pin:
- Start the machine (turn key to ON / run through self-test)
- If the anti-theft function is active, the system pauses and awaits the 4-digit code.
- Use the UP / DOWN buttons to select the first digit, then press the DIM / Confirm button to accept it.
- Repeat the process for digits two, three, and four.
- After all four digits are entered and confirmed correctly, three short beeps confirm acceptance and the anti-theft mode is disabled, allowing normal operation.
Challenges & Limitations
- If the code is lost, there is no simple “reset button” or master override in most machines.
- Some operators have reported purchasing backhoes that were already locked, with no code available—leaving them unable to operate transmission functions.
- Even with serial numbers, unless special diagnostic tools or programming capability exist, the system may not be reset without replacing the ECU or control module.
- Codes may have been recorded near the machine (on service tags, equipment logs, or within maintenance records)—these locations should be carefully checked.
- Safeguard the 4-digit anti-theft code by writing it in multiple secure locations (e.g. service log, operator’s manual, equipment file).
- Upon acquiring a used machine, always request the anti-theft code from the seller and verify that the transmission is unlocked.
- If code is lost, contact a Komatsu dealer and ask whether their diagnostic system can reset or reprogram the ECU for your WB97R-2. Be prepared that they may refuse or charge a labor fee.
- As a last resort, replacing or reflashing the control module might be necessary—but this can be costly and may require component calibration.
The Komatsu WB97R-2’s anti-theft system is a security feature tied to a 4-digit PIN code entered via the machine’s control interface at startup. Once the code is lost or forgotten, operations are blocked until correct entry or authorized service reset. Because Komatsu does not store those PINs, the burden lies on owners to protect, record, and retain those security codes or risk immobilization of their machine.
