Mazda Key Replacement - What You Need to Know
Mazda key replacement usually requires the assistance of an experienced locksmith. Making a few preparations will help speed up the process. Included in this are the particulars of their Mazda and the year in which it was manufactured and whether or not it has transponders.
A CHOICE member's Mazda key fob battery died recently. She tried to replace it herself but couldn't get the cover off.
Transponder Keys
It is probable that if have a car in the last 20 years your key is equipped with transponders. These chips are embedded into the head of the plastic key and are designed for communication with the computer system inside your car when the key is put into the ignition. This allows the computer in your car to verify that the key is yours and then disarms the immobilizer, so that only you can start the engine.
The chip in your car keys is powered by electromagnetic energy that is transferred from a small coil around the key barrel. When the chip receives the signal, it sends back an appropriate response to the car. The computer then recognizes it's your keys. This eliminates the possibility of key tampering and also prevents theft.
When they need duplicate keys, a lot of people visit their local dealerships for cars. A professional locksmith can make copies of your transponder keys at a lower cost than the dealer.
Always keep a spare transponder key in a safe place and away from your vehicle. It is useful if your car keys ever require replacement or when one gets lost. If you lose your transponder key, be sure to record the code number on the metal plate that is attached to them. This information will be required to program a replacement key, if required.
Key Fobs
A key fob is capable of much more than simply unlocking the door of your car. These handy devices can be useful for a variety of other functions, including closing your windows and calling your car to park and auto-parking it.
Fobs communicate with the door latch via an electronic system called RFID. The RFID chip within the fob transmits a unique coded signal which matches with the reader's code in the door latch. If the signal matches, the door opens to allow access to the owner.
It shouldn't take more than a couple of minutes to replace the battery. Most fobs have a replaceable cover, which makes it easy to replace the battery. There are instructions in the owner's handbook, or you can watch online videos.
You must also remove the plate attached to the key fob. It has a code number. Write down the code number and keep it in a safe place (not in your vehicle). If you should lose your Mazda key fob you'll have the number that you can use to purchase an alternative one from the dealer. You may be covered by your insurance but first you will need to pay the deductible. You can purchase key fobs at your local hardware store online, or from an online retailer however, the dealer is typically the most cost-effective.
Keyless Entry
It is a convenient feature which allows you to unlock the car without touching the door handle. It utilizes radio signals to link the car and the key fob. It also allows you to start and lock the engine using the key fob. This technology is gaining popularity in all kinds of vehicles. Some automakers include this technology in the price of their cars, whereas other offer it as an option.
You can add this feature to your vehicle at home. You'll need to purchase the necessary parts and tools. You will need an instruction manual with all the information. The manual will guide you on which wires to connect. You will also require a wire stripper or cutter, a soldering gun and some electrical tape.
After you have all the materials, you will have to disconnect the battery from the vehicle prior starting. You can then take off the cover from under the steering column to get access to all the wires. Label the wires you wish to connect. Only use the wires as specified in the directions. Wrap the wires exposed in black electrical tape.
Wear gloves if you're going to be doing the work yourself to avoid skin irritation. Also, make sure mazda replacement keys save the code number for your key fob in a safe location. It will be helpful if you ever need to program your new system.
Ignition Cylinder
The ignition cylinder is the mechanical part which you insert your car key to start the engine. It is connected to the ignition switch, an electrical component that locks the engine and reads anti-theft coding within the key to allow it to start.
The ignition cylinder may wear out or even dissolve over time and cease to function correctly. This is usually the cause of trouble starting or powering up the vehicle. You might also notice that your key gets stuck in the ignition.
In most cases, you'll have to replace the ignition cylinder, not just the car key. It can be a costly and complicated process, particularly in cars with security systems which require the ignition cylinder be replaced to function correctly.
Changing an ignition cylinder can be tricky because you'll need to take off the steering wheel as well as the lower cover of the steering section to access 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've got the appropriate tools The process of getting rid of the cylinder is fairly simple. You'll then need to reverse the process you used to remove the cylinder. Install it correctly so that the tab and retaining slot are aligned. It is important to check that the tumblers are in the correct order.