Mazda Key Replacement - What You Need to Know
Mazda key replacement typically requires the help of an experienced locksmith. To make the process quicker, it is recommended to prepare a few items. Included in this are the specifics 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 went out recently. She tried to replace it on her own, but was unable to get the cover off.
Transponder Keys
It is probable that if have a car from the last 20 year your key has transponders. These chips are embedded in the head of plastic of your key and are made to communicate with the computer system in your car once they are inserted into the ignition cylinder. This allows the computer in your car to confirm that the key belongs to you and disables the immobilizer so that only you can turn on the engine.
The chip inside your car keys is powered by electromagnetic energy transferred from a small coil around the key barrel. When the chip detects the signal, it sends a response to the car. The computer then knows it's your key. This eliminates the possibility of key manipulation and discourages theft.
Many people go to dealers for their cars when they need to get their keys copied. However, a professional locksmith can also duplicate the transponder keys for you at lower costs than a dealer.
It is recommended to keep a spare transponder key in a secure place, away from your vehicle. This will help you if you ever require your car keys replaced or should you lose one of them. If you lose a transponder, be sure to write down the code number printed on a plate that is attached to your keys. This information will be required to program a replacement key should you require it.
Key Fobs
A key fob can do more than unlock your car door. These handy devices can also be used to open your windows, call your car and automatically park it.
Fobs communicate with the door latch via the radio system referred to as RFID. An RFID chip inside the fob sends out a unique coded signal that is matched with the reader's code in the door latch. If the signal matches the door opens and grants access to the owner.
It shouldn't take more than a few minutes to replace the battery. Most fobs come with a removable cover that makes it easy to replace the battery. You can find instructions in the owner's manual or view online videos.
Detach the code-containing plate from the key fob. Note this number down and store it in a secure location (not in your vehicle). In mazda key fob replacement that you lose your Mazda key fob you'll have the number to purchase an alternative one from the dealer. You may be insured, but first you'll need to pay the deductible. You can find key fobs at your local hardware store, a big box retailer or online but a dealership is usually the cheapest option.
Keyless Entry
Keyless entry is an easy feature that lets you unlock your car without having to touch the door handle. It makes use of radio signals to link the car and the key fob. It also allows you to lock and start the engine with the key fob. This technology is gaining popularity among all types of automobiles. Some automakers include this technology in the price of their cars, whereas other provide it as an option.
This feature for your vehicle can be accomplished at home. You'll need to purchase the required parts and tools. Make sure you have an instruction manual that provides you with all the details. The manual will show you which wires to connect. You will also require a wire stripper, or cutter as well as a soldering gun, and some electrical tape.
Before starting the vehicle, disconnect the battery prior to starting the car. Then, you can remove the cover from under the steering column to access all the wires. Label the wires you intend to connect. Make sure you only use the wires that are indicated in the instructions. Then, you'll need to wrap the exposed wires with black electrical tape.
If you choose to do the work yourself, be sure to wear a pair of gloves to avoid any skin irritation. Also, be sure to save the code number for your key fob in a safe place. This will come in handy in the event that you have to program an entirely new system.
Ignition Cylinder
The ignition cylinder is the mechanical component which you insert your car key to start the engine. It's attached to the ignition switch, an electrical component that locks the engine and reads the anti-theft programming in the key to allow it to start.
The ignition cylinder may wear out or wash away over time and stop working properly. This can cause issues starting the car or recharging it. You might find your key getting stuck in the ignition.
In most cases you will need to replace your ignition instead of your car key. This can be an expensive and complicated process particularly for cars with security systems which require the ignition cylinder to be replaced in order to perform correctly.
Changing an ignition cylinder can be a challenge because you'll need to remove the steering wheel as well as the lower steering section cover to get to the ignition lock. Once you do this, you'll need to disconnect and isolate the negative battery wire to keep out any accidental connections during the replacement process.
If you have the proper tools, the process of taking the cylinder off should be relatively simple. You'll need to reverse the procedure you used to remove the cylinder. Install it in a way that the tab and retaining slot are in alignment. Also, make sure that all of the tumblers are placed in the proper sequence.