2008 Mazdaspeed3 Flip Key

[ghettodumpster]

Hey guys! I usually lurk the forums, but I'm finally gonna make a post because I have a few questions.

Lately, I've been interested in getting myself a flipkey for my mazdaspeed, and after some thorough research, i decided to invest in one of these.

Since this is similar to the OEM flipkey, there shouldn't be issues with the key-remove button when turning off the car and removing the key.

I'm currently aware that we can't program a remote to work with US 07-09 mazda's, so I was planning on transplanting the transponder from the original remote into the housing for the flipkey and drilling a hole in the housing for the panic button [since there currently isn't one in the new flip key housing]

My questions are as follows :

Should I be unable to locate my second key [and therefore be unable to program my own key on the cheap], what would be the cheapest way to get this flipkey programmed so that it will start my vehicle? Should I buy a blank key from somewhere and THEN have mazda program it? Should I just have mazda program the flipkey [and hopefully cut it]? I figure having the flipkey and then the original key would suffice in ensuring that I'll never be locked out of my vehicle.

Have I misunderstood any of the research I've done and is what I'm planning to do not feasible/impossible?

 

[skallen]

I have an 07 MS3 with the flip key...I hate it!!! I wish I could change it

 

[manelscout4life]

which flip key do you have?
pics?

 

[icspots]

Since this is similar to the OEM flipkey, there shouldn't be issues with the key-remove button when turning off the car and removing the key.

Correct, it doesn't interfere with the lock switch on the ignition like some other aftermarket cases.

I'm currently aware that we can't program a remote to work with US 07-09 mazda's, so I was planning on transplanting the transponder from the original remote into the housing for the flipkey and drilling a hole in the housing for the panic button [since there currently isn't one in the new flip key housing

Just be aware other members on other forums who have cut out the panic button hole mentioned that since it wasn't recessed like on the regular remotes it was easier to hit by accident.

Should I be unable to locate my second key [and therefore be unable to program my own key on the cheap], what would be the cheapest way to get this flipkey programmed so that it will start my vehicle? Should I buy a blank key from somewhere and THEN have mazda program it? Should I just have mazda program the flipkey [and hopefully cut it]? I figure having the flipkey and then the original key would suffice in ensuring that I'll never be locked out of my vehicle.

The cheapest way to go would be to have them program the new flip key as your second key. They of course get to name the price, and the process takes about 45 minutes so they usually charge an hour of labor. Shop around, but don't be surprised to hear $50-100. I still recommend getting another standard key (~$20-30) and having it programmed as either a second or third key....... whichever key is to be third you can program yourself for free. That way should you ever lose a key in the future you don't have to pay the dealer to program another one for you.

Alternately I've heard that some locksmiths can "clone" the RFID chip in your new key to that of your existing working key. Basically both keys would identify themselves as the same key and since that code is recognized by the car it will start. Since the car would think they're the same key it wouldn't work to let you program more keys, but it would let you have two working ones. Again not something I've personally done, but something that other members have mentioned. It could be worth your time to make some calls and ask around.

Have I misunderstood any of the research I've done and is what I'm planning to do not feasible/impossible?

Nope, you've got a pretty good handle on it.

I have an 07 MS3 with the flip key...I hate it!!! I wish I could change it

So why don't you just purchase a regular key and program it to start the car? The key will run $20-30 and you can program it yourself (if you have two working keys). If you want a standard remote you should be able to get one that works on a Canadian model of your year and program that yourself...... don't be surprised if the remote costs over $100 though.

 

[skallen]

I do want to purchase the regular key and remote like I had in my 09 Mazda 3. However, the aforementioned cost has hindered that a little. I'd rather be spending that money on BOV's and downpipes. One of these days I suppose LOL