Gamers threw a hissy fit on the internet yesterday when it came to light that EA's multiplayer-unlocking Online Pass codes can expire.
One gamer discovered this when trying to use a code from a new copy of Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit recently purchased from Amazon. The system rejected the code as "incorrect or no longer valid". Other gamers chimed in with similar experiences.But don't throw your toys out of the pram; in response to the matter EA has said that while Online Pass codes should generally not expire, some will and new ones can be acquired for free.
Dragon Age 2, for example, contains codes that will expire on March 31, 2012. "Re-downloading or getting a new Pass is free," EA told Joystiq.

http://www.computerandvideogames.com...ne-pass-codes/