Mazda Key Replacement - What You Need to Know
Mazda keys are usually replaced by a locksmith. To help the process go quicker, it is recommended to prepare a few details. Included in this are the particulars of their Mazda as well as the year they were made and whether or not it has transponders.
A CHOICE member's Mazda key fob battery failed recently. She tried replacing it herself, but was unable to open the cover.
Transponder Keys
If you own a vehicle manufactured in the last 20 years, it is highly likely that your key is equipped with a transponder chip within it. These chips are embedded into the head of the key and are designed to communicating with the computer system in your car when the key is put into the ignition. This allows the car's computer to verify that the key belongs to you and also disarms the immobilizer to ensure that only you are able to turn on the engine.
The chip in your car keys is powered by electromagnetic energy sent from a small coil that is positioned around the key barrel. The chip sends a response back to the car when it receives this signal, and the computer then knows that it is your key. This eliminates the possibility of key manipulation and deters theft.
Many people turn to their dealers for their cars when they need to get their keys copied. A professional locksmith can create copies of your transponder key at a cost that is lower than a dealer.
Keep an extra transponder in a secure place, away from your vehicle. You can use this if your car keys ever need to be replaced, or should one get lost. If you lose your transponder keys ensure that you note the code number printed on the metal plate that is attached to them. This information will be needed to program a replacement key if required.
Key Fobs
A key fob can be capable of more than just unlocking your car's doors. These handy devices are also useful for a host of other purposes, like opening your windows, and calling your car to park and auto-parking it.
Fobs communicate with the door latch using an electronic system called RFID. The RFID chip inside the fob transmits a unique coded signal that matches up with the reader's code in the door latch. If the signal matches the door latch opens and allows access to the owner.
It shouldn't take more than a few minutes to replace the battery. The majority of fobs come with a removable cover that permits replacement of batteries. Your owner's manual should provide guidelines for this, and there are plenty of online videos that can help with the process.
Detach the code-containing plate from the key fob. This number should be noted down and kept in a secure place (not your vehicle). If you lose your Mazda keyfob, you'll have the code to get a replacement from the dealer. You could be covered by your insurance but first you will need to pay the deductible. Key fobs are available from your local hardware store online, or from the big box store however, the dealer will usually be the cheapest.
Keyless Entry
It's a handy feature that allows you to unlock your car without touching the door handle. It uses radio signals to establish a connection between the car and the key fob. Key fobs can also be used to lock the car or start it. This technology is becoming commonplace in all types of automobiles. mazda key fob include it in the price of their cars while others offer it as an option.
Adding this feature to your vehicle is easy at home. You'll need to purchase the necessary parts and tools. Make sure you get an instruction manual that provides you with all of the information. The manual will explain which wires to connect. You will also require a wire stripper or cutter and a soldering tool, as well as some electrical tape.
Once you have the necessary items, you'll need to disconnect the battery from the vehicle prior starting. After that, you can take off the cover under the steering wheel in order to gain access to the necessary wires. Label the wires that you plan to connect. Use only the wires specified in the instructions. Wrap the exposed wires in black electrical tape.
Wear gloves if doing the work yourself to avoid irritation to your skin. Also, make sure you save the code number for your key fob in a secure location. This will be helpful when you need to program your new system.
Ignition Cylinder
The ignition cylinder is a mechanical part in which you insert your vehicle key to start the engine. It is attached to the ignition that is an electrical component that locks and unlocks the engine after reading the anti-theft code in the key.
The ignition cylinder may wear out or even disappear in time and stop functioning correctly. This can lead to problems starting the car, or recharging it. You may also notice that your key is stuck in the ignition.
In most cases you will have to replace the ignition rather than your car key. This can be a costly and complicated procedure, especially for vehicles with security systems that require that the ignition cylinder be replaced to function properly.
It isn't easy to change an ignition lock as you must remove the steering column and the lower steering section cover to reach the ignition lock. After you've removed the steering wheel and the cover, you'll need to disconnect the negative battery cable and isolate it in order to prevent accidental connections.
Once you have all the necessary tools, the removal process is fairly simple. After you have removed the cylinder, you'll need to reinstall it by using the same procedure in reverse. Install it correctly so that the tab and the retaining slot are in alignment. You'll have to ensure that the tumblers in the proper order.