Changing the Battery in Your Mazda 3 Key Fob
There's nothing more frustrating than returning to your vehicle after a long day, and realizing that the key fob battery is dead. This is a straightforward fix that can be done at a big box retailer or hardware store.
A spare key fob for your Mazda 3 is an inexpensive method to avoid having to be towed to a dealership in order to have them reprogram the keys.
Battery Replacement
You can replace the battery on your Mazda 3 keyfob at home. However, you should replace the battery if it fails, or when the key fob displays a message in the multi-information display that reads, "Low key fob battery. Replace battery."
You'll need to use a flathead screwdriver and tape and patience to open the case. Locate a notch or gap in the bottom of the metal part of your Mazda 3's key fob and then insert the head of the screwdriver in it to break off the lower portion. Repeat the process for the top portion of the metal, but be careful not to scratch the rubber ring at the bottom of the key fob's case.
Once the fob case is open, you'll see the slots on either side of the case, which houses the battery. Make use of the tape-wrapped flathead screwdriver to gently open the case, beginning at one end and moving to the next. Remove the old CR2025 and replace it with a new one, making sure to place it face-up to ensure proper direction of polarity. Place the battery cap on again, and then attach both sides of your key fob case by pressing until they click.
After replacing the battery, test the fob to confirm it is working by locking and unlocking your doors. If everything appears to be working then your Mazda 3 remote features can be used again.
Pairing Issues
This could mean that the transmitter inside your car has been damaged. It is typically a need for the assistance of a professional for repair and may need a new key fob.
If you have tried replacing the battery and programming the key fob, but has not solved the problem, it is possible that the chip in the key fob is malfunctioning. This can happen if your keyfob has been dropped or exposed to saltwater or touched by dirty fingers.
You'll need to find the tiny "key" that is inserted into the seam, in order to remove the circuit board and diagnose the problem. Then, you can examine the electronic chip for damage or corrosion. It is recommended to use a clean paper towel to prevent damaging the microchip.
You can also take a close look at the battery connector's terminals to examine if they're damaged or cracked. If this is the case, then carefully connecting them back can often restore the function of the key fob. Similarly, you can inspect the buttons to determine whether they are worn out or damaged. If the buttons are loose, they can be re-soldered and also if a button has physically snapped off.
Interference Signals
There are few things more frustrating than trying to start your car and then seeing the message "No Fob Detected". It can happen at the most unfavorable occasions, such as the time you're late to work or have to pick up your children from school/daycare. The good thing is that there are steps you can take to pinpoint the issue and figure out the cause.
Interference signals can interfere with the remote key fob's signal from the vehicle making it unable to work properly. This can be caused by objects like weather conditions, buildings, and transmitters that operate on the same frequency. Interference can occur when your vehicle is equipped with aftermarket equipment that transmits at the same frequency as your key fob.
Additionally, if mazda key fob replacement cost is exposed to salt or water seawater, it may be damaged. The rubber seals on the electronic chip may be penetrated by water, particularly in the event that it is submerged for long periods of time, like in a pool or at the beach. This can cause the chip to stop functioning and require replacement of the key fob. If you have a key that can be programmed, you can clean it with isopropyl and electronic cleaners to bring it back to its original functionality. If this does nothing then it's likely that the chip has been damaged and requires replacement.
Locking/Unlocking the Doors
The key fob's buttons send electronic signals to a solenoid in the car that then converts the signal into a mechanical action that locks and unlocks doors. If the door lock is not working, the problem could be a solenoid issue that requires some analysis with the help of a professional auto repair shop.
A dead 12 volt battery could also stop the fob from functioning correctly. This happens when the battery's charge is lost or the contacts become corroded, and stop transferring electricity. The good news is that a new battery is able to fix this problem in just minutes.
The receiver module may be the problem if the key fob doesn't work after you replace the battery or reprogram the device. The device interprets radio frequency signals sent by the key fob to control the vehicle. If it malfunctions it could cost a lot to fix.
To determine if this is the case, start by inserting the spare key into the key slot and setting the ignition to ON. Press the key fob button two times within 10 seconds without removing it. The Mazda 3 system will now be able to synchronize the key with your vehicle and you can then use it as your primary remote for driving. You can program up to three keys in this way.