I was looking on ebay for a new radio with cd player for my 96 OB. One of these big used parts dealers on there states on his ads that "this unit may need programming from the dealer to allow it to communicate with the vehicle"...what is that all about? He says it may cost $45

Mitsubishi for example during the 90s used a lot of radios that required a security code. Radio would not turn on without the proper security code. Subaru never used feature this in the 90s.

As John said, that won't apply to you. Subaru never did that. Probably just his standard disclaimer.

Avoid used volkswagon radios, these have codes and there are countless sites with misinformation, even with past owner's and dealer help you may not break them. Stick with subie radios and you will have no such silliness.