Changing the Battery in Your Mazda 3 Key Fob
There is nothing more frustrating than getting to your vehicle after a long day and realizing that the key fob battery is dead. Luckily, this is an easy fix using a simple battery replacement from the hardware store or big box retailer.
A spare key fob for your Mazda 3 is an inexpensive option to not have to be towed by a dealership to let them re-program your keys.
Battery Replacement
You can replace the battery on your Mazda 3 keyfob at home. However, you should replace the battery if it goes out of service, or if the key fob displays a message on the multi-information display saying, "Low key fob battery. Replace battery."
To open the key fob's case you'll need a tape-wrapped flathead screwdriver and a bit of patience. Find a gap or notch in the bottom of the metal part of your Mazda 3's key fob, and then insert the head of the screwdriver into it to cut off the lower part. Repeat this step for the top metal part but be careful not to scratch the rubber ring at bottom of the key fob's case.
There is a slot on the opposite side of the case, where you can find the battery. Use the flathead screwdriver with tape to gently the case open, starting on one side before shifting to the other. Remove the old battery and then put in the new CR2025 to ensure that it's facing upwards to ensure proper polarity. Attach the cap to the battery again and attach both sides of your key fob case by pressing until they click.
After you've replaced the battery, test the fob to make sure it functions by locking and unlocking your doors. If everything looks good you're good to go. Mazda 3 remote features can be used again.
Pairing Issues
If your key fob stop working all of a sudden, this could indicate that the transmitter in the car has been damaged. It's usually a job for a professional and you will need a new key fob.
If you've tried replacing the battery and reprogramming the key fob but has not solved the problem it could be that the chip in the key fob could be malfunctioning. This can happen when the key fob was dropped on hard surfaces, exposed to salt water or even touched by dirty hands.
To diagnose this issue it is necessary to locate a tiny "key" located in the fob's seam which allows you to open it and take out the circuit board. You can then check the electronic chip for corrosion or damage. To prevent damaging the chip, it's best to use a fresh paper towel.
It is also possible to take a close look at the battery connector terminals to examine if they're cracked or broken. If this is the case, carefully reconnecting them will usually restore the function of the key fob. You can also examine the buttons for wear or damage. If the buttons are loose, they can easily be soldered back regardless of whether the button has actually snapped off.
Interference Signals
Few things are more annoying than staring at an "No Fob Detected" message when you attempt to start your car. This happens at the worst occasions, such as when you're late to work or have to pick up your children from daycare or school. The good thing is that there are a few steps you can take to investigate the issue and determine the root of the problem.
Interference signals can cause the remote key fob not to function properly. This could be caused by things such as weather conditions, buildings, and transmitters that use the same frequency. Interference could occur if your vehicle is equipped with aftermarket equipment that transmits at the same frequency as your key fob.
The key fob could be damaged if exposed to water or salty water. Water can penetrate the rubber seals of the electronic chip, especially when the key fob has been submerged in water for a prolonged duration. The chip may cease to function and require replacement of the keyfob. If you have a key that is able to be programmed to work, you can clean it using isopropyl or electronic cleaners to bring it back to its original function. If this does not help the chip, it's likely to be damaged and will need to be replaced.
Locking and unlocking of the Doors
The buttons on the key fob transmit electronic signals to the solenoid of the car, which then converts the signal into mechanical action. mazda cx-5 replacement key uk locks and unlocks doors. If the door lock does not work it could be due to an issue with the solenoid. This requires professional auto repair shops to investigate.
A dead 12V battery can also prevent the fob from functioning properly. This could happen if the battery is unable to charge or if the contacts are corroded and stop transmitting electricity. The good news is that a new battery can resolve this issue in a matter of minutes.
If the key fob isn't functioning after you change the battery or try to reprogram it, the issue might be in the receiver module. The device receives radio frequency signals from the key fob and interprets them to control the functions of the vehicle. If it breaks down it could be costly to fix.
To confirm if this true, place your spare key in the key slot. Then, turn the ignition on. Press the key fob button twice within 10 seconds without removing it. The Mazda 3 system will now synchronize the key with the vehicle and you can then use it as your primary remote for driving. This allows you to program up to three keys.