2008 CX-9 > Can I switch from the Credit Card Smart Key to the Flip-Style Smart Key?

[dub mon]

2008 CX-9 > Can I switch from the Credit Card Smart Key to the Flip-Style Smart Key?

Hi folks,

I own a fully loaded 2008 CX-9 GT fully loaded that came with this style FOB: http://www.mazdas247.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=178366&d=1292425790
The credit card style fobs are super worn out after 6 years of usage and are starting to fail. Replacing the batteries doesn't help and the buttons are tough to press due to the thin footprint of the key. I can't stand this style of key to tell the truth.

I found this thread on a similar topic (http://www.mazdas247.com/forum/show...-to-the-newer-keyfob/page3&highlight=smartkey) but it was speaking to upgrading to a newer keyfob where I'm interested in switching to a different style keyfob albeit for the same year of vehicle.

Can I replace my OEM credit card style Smart Keys with this flip Mazda smart key - http://www.carandtruckremotes.com/2008-mazda-cx-9-remote-1.html ?
Has anyone been able to successfully do it? will the "smart" function still work when pressing the button on the door or starting the car?

Thanks in advance for the help!
Dave.

 

[table5511]

No. Won't work. The fcc id is different. The rubber buttons on your door handles communicate with your card. They would not operate with a switchblade.
The control module would have to be replaced with the proper fcc id module.
All your antennas inside and outside of the vehicle would become useless, you would have to swap over to whatever kind of antenna the switchblade uses, if any.
Its not plug/play at all.
-----
I hardly ever use the buttons on my Card. I have 3 working cards at present.
One is brand new, and is in a safe place, in case it is ever needed. One is my wife's, she tosses it in her purse and the buttons are all scratched up but work fine.
The other is mine and none of the buttons have any wear. I treat it carefully. It works great.
Buy a couple cards on ebay and program them to your car, that's the easiest way. As long as you have at least 2 working cards at present.

I love my keycard. There have only ever been a few vehicles that have ever used them. Very unique. (Renault, Mercedes, Bentley, Lexus). I think its pretty cool.

 

[dub mon]

Thanks for the help helbigtw! I really appreciate it

Can you confirm that I can't upgraded to the newer style CX-9 keyfod even if it's the "smart" system?

I'm looking at smart cards on ebay and the used ones are pretty pricey (at least compared to the flip-style key) - see the list below.
All the new smart cards currently on ebay appear to be the shell only without any internals.

Am I missing something?


US $129.00
USED OEM Mazda smart card key without the power lift gate button
http://www.ebay.com/itm/OEM-MAZDA-S...s&fits=Model:CX-9&hash=item51ba944394&vxp=mtr

US $123.45
USED OEM Mazda smart card key without the power lift gate button
looks a bit worn
http://www.ebay.com/itm/MAZDA-CX7-C...Parts_Accessories&hash=item43c6a5f3a8&vxp=mtr

$289
2x USED OEM Mazda smart card key with the power lift gate button
http://www.ebay.com/itm/LOT-OF-2-MA...s&fits=Model:CX-9&hash=item1e88c5a543&vxp=mtr

 

[table5511]

Check out item 171277605480 and 151258383186
The second one is with pwr trunk. Rx8/m6/cx9 same card just different looking trunk button. Same fcc id. I know because my backup card has one with a trunk button instead of a lift gate button. Works fine. So don't confine ebay search to just cx9. And no, sadly we can't upgrade to new style smart fobs due to different fcc ids as well. I obtained one and it wouldn't program. Good luck!

 

[dub mon]

Check out item 171277605480 and 151258383186
The second one is with pwr trunk. Rx8/m6/cx9 same card just different looking trunk button. Same fcc id. I know because my backup card has one with a trunk button instead of a lift gate button. Works fine. So don't confine ebay search to just cx9. And no, sadly we can't upgrade to new style smart fobs due to different fcc ids as well. I obtained one and it wouldn't program. Good luck!

thanks again helbigtw!
I googled that fcc id and remote-superstore.com claims to be selling a new 4-button key for $149. I'm not sure how reputable this store:
http://www.remote-superstore.com/we...back_ref=index.php?cat_path=29_239_285&page=1

Do you think it's better to pickup a new key for $149 versus a used key for $99? It's tough to know exactly what you're getting with a used key card on ebay.

Finally, can you point me to instructions for self programming the key card? I have two functioning key cards (albeit on their way out) and would prefer to program the smart key card myself versus a local mazda dealership charging me a fee. Does programming it yourself require two work smart key cards?

Have a good night.