How a Locksmith Can Make a Mazda Replacement Key
If you lose or break your car keys, it may be difficult to get them replaced. Luckily, professional auto locksmiths can help.
The cloning of keys is an opportunity to create a spare car key. But it's not ideal for those who want their vehicle to be secure from theft.
Replacement Keys
If you've lost, or damaged your Mazda car keys, a locksmith could create a replacement in a relatively short time. If your keys have a transponder chip in it the locksmith will also reprogram the computer to block the old key from functioning, so it isn't able to start your car with it. This is much less expensive than taking the car to the dealer.
The majority of newer cars come with keys that are special and have an immobiliser built-in. This helps to prevent theft. This kind of key is more expensive than the standard one but it is very difficult to steal since the car needs to be physically altered in order for the chip to be disabled. It is also a lot more difficult to get into the vehicle without a key fob because it requires the owner to press a button on the dash board or on the steering wheel to open the doors.
Pick Me Locksmith has the necessary equipment to program and cut new keys for the latest Mazda models. Keys for older model cars such as the 121, 323 & 626 will need to have their ECU removed and programmed by a dealership in order to stop the old keys from working. However, the Locksmiths can provide the key in a spare form and program it for less than what it would cost to have a dealership do this.
Transponder Keys
If your car was made in the last 25 years, the chances are that it uses a transponder key to unlock and start the engine. Transponder keys were designed as a more effective anti-theft device than traditional metal keys. They contain computers inside the plastic key head which communicates with your car's computer system to turn off the ignition.
Transponder keys can also be used to control home security as well as remote door openers, like garage and gate doors. They are less likely to be abused since criminals are able to program them with the unique serial. However, they are not foolproof. They are susceptible to hacking by criminals, therefore the use of a transponder isn't a guarantee of safety.
Many people believe that only a Mazda dealer can create a transponder replacement key in case of the case of a stolen or lost key. However locksmiths are able to do it. It is more complicated than cutting a new one from metal and requires an experienced locksmith who knows how to program the chip inside the key to connect it to your car's computer.
Keyless Entry Remotes
Mazda key fobs are tiny remotes that emit an electronic code. The computer in the car then verifies the code to allow entry and starts the engine. This technology is designed to deter thieves from hacking into the system using an instrument known as an "code grabber" that reads out the unique code that the key fob emits. Most modern cars have smart keys as part of a technology package in higher trim levels or as an additional feature. These types of keys are not cheap to replace, and removing and reprogramming them is a requirement to visit a dealership and provide proof of ownership.
Some locksmiths can program a replacement key for you. However, you might be charged more than the dealership. You could also try an aftermarket replacement for your Mazda key fob, which is cheaper than buying a new one from a dealer, but it isn't as reliable.
To open a Mazda key fob, take off the key's metal cover and use a tape-wrapped flathead screwdriver to open the case from either side. Once the two covers are removed it is possible to remove the battery of the key fob. After that, you can put in the new battery and replace the cover. You should also write down the code that is stamped on the plate attached to the Mazda replacement key and keep it safe in case you need to replace it again.
Key Fobs
Today's high-tech car keys and fobs do more than simply unlock or start a vehicle. They also offer a range of additional convenience features, like the ability to lower your windows or start the car with a single button. They are also a good anti-theft device. The advancements in technology mean they are expensive to replace in the event of loss or damage. The days of having locksmiths cut your keys are long gone. Finding a new key fob from an online dealer could cost you hundreds of bucks.
Certain key fobs have a integrated security chips that communicate with the car's electronics to verify the owner's authorization to open and enter the vehicle. Those are often called smart keys and are more costly than traditional metal keys that have a transponder built into. Dealership estimates range from $200 to $500 for replacing a smart key.
If your Mazda key fob battery goes out it is possible to replace it with an extra button cell battery purchased at a hardware store, or big-box retailer. You can also find step by step instructions on YouTube. mazda key programming will detail how to open your fob case. Be careful not to open the case too tightly or cause damage to the internal components.