Mazda 3 Key Fob Replacement

Mazda 3 owners may need to replace the battery on their keyfob at times. You can easily perform this task yourself.

To change the battery, find the small button on the back of the key fob. Press the button and then remove the cover.

Lost Keys

Before the 1990s losing your car keys was a minor inconvenience. It was fairly inexpensive to replace them at any hardware store, dealer, or locksmith. Today, your vehicle's high-tech key fob does much more than lock and start your car and that convenience comes with a cost higher cost for replacements.

The key fob features an embedded security chip within it that sends a unique code to the car's system to allow you to unlock and start the engine. The key fob is capable of controlling some other features, such as opening the windows when you're in a hot parking spot and summoning your car to you for easier reversing into the tight spots (a feature found on some Genesis GV60 and Hyundai Sonata sedans).

Mazda's remote controls aren't the price of other car makers'. With a little bit of knowledge you can replace the key fob's battery yourself. You'll require a flathead screwdriver along with the new CR2025 to accomplish this. Use the red and direction buttons to lock and unlock your doors prior to changing the batteries.

If you want to save money on a Mazda 3 key fob replacement, look for one online that is OEM and does not require programming by a dealer or locksmith. You'll find many options on eBay but they might not have the exact colour or logo as your current key fob.

Lockouts

A driver being locked out of their car is one of the most traumatic scenarios that could occur. There are, however, a few tricks that drivers can apply to get back into their car. It is best to first call their local Mazda dealership or locksmith. This is a good option because it's less expensive than calling a tow truck and it will be faster too. A dealer or locksmith must purchase a key code in the database to make a new fob. It will cost around $100. This is why it's crucial to save the code in a secure place.

Another thing people can do when stuck outside of their car is to look at the underneath of the key fob for an additional button. The button is usually smaller and round, but can be pressed. This will unlock the doors of the vehicle and permit the owner to open them by hand.

Another way to get into a vehicle that is locked is using the emergency override feature. This allows you to use your key fob to disable any functions that have been suspended by the theft deterrent system. This will usually activate the hazard warning lights and beep signalling that the doors, fuel-filler lid or liftgate are locked.

Transponder Chips

You'll have to replace it if the key fob is equipped with a transponder that is built into the metal head of the L-shaped key. These chips come with a unique identification number that works with your vehicle to start the engine.

The antenna ring emits a blast of radio frequency energy when you insert your key in the metal and turn it on. This energy reaches the chip's transponder located in the key. The chip responds by sending a code to the antenna ring. This informs the car that the key is legitimate.

Most Mazdas come with a transponder chip with a changing code that changes each time you turn it. This means that the key will not work on your vehicle until you have a second copy that has the exact same code in the ignition.

It's not difficult to make your own replacement key. If you can locate an appropriate key and fits into your mazda key fob. Then, turn the ignition ON. If the key starts your vehicle, you'll be able to copy the data from it onto the other working key. If you need to, you can also utilize the eraser on your key fob to remove the code. This method is not 100% guaranteed to work as transponder chips that are recycled might not function correctly.

Programming

The loss of your car keys can be costly and time-consuming. Fortunately, Mazda has made it easy to program and add the third key. You can do this with only a few steps and you do not have to pay the dealer for the service. If you have an extra car key, this is the best way to avoid paying for a tow and dealership charges.

First, you'll need purchase a replacement battery for the fob. You can purchase one from a hardware store or big box retailer for about $10. You'll also require an open-ended screwdriver that is flat to open the fob. The screwdriver's head must fit into a small slot on the back of your fob. After removing the case replace the old battery.

Now it's time to program the new key fob to your vehicle. To do this, simply insert the first working key into the ignition and turn it to ON. Then, wait for five seconds before turning the ignition off. Repeat the process using a second working key, and then with your new (or spare) key. Once you've completed the process the new key should be in a position to start your Mazda. If not, it may be a problem with the key fob.