Confused Mazda 3 newbie: transponder key? Remote? Plz help

[manolosal]

Hi all.

I just bought a used 2005 Mazda 3 (brought it from the US, Im in El Salvador). It has a standard factory key with a separate door-lock remote.

I just cant start the car!! Ive been reading about "transponder keys" (like the ones with VW cars maybe??)

So, my confusion is...what do I need to start the car? And if needed..Why doesnt my car have a transponder key?

Just confused...and frustrated!


Thanks in advance!!

 

[Solo2Protege]

All Mazda3 keys i've seen have the transponder built into them. Does the key have a thick black end with the flyin M logo?

I assume you've started the car before with the same key? Was anything electrical disconected while transporting? (besides the battery) I suppose it may be possible for the transponder module to lose it's memory if the battery has been disconnected for a long period of time.

I would suspect a local Mazda dealer could re-program it with just the VIN #.

On the other hand...is the remote you have for a keyless system or an alarm system?

 

[icspots]

all US Mz3's have an engine immobilizer that won't let the car be started unless there's a chip in your key that's been programmed into your ECU as an accepted key. Like solo2protege said the transponder key should have a thick black end with a flying M logo on it (though non-transponder keys look like that too, just don't have the chip underneath it).

I've not heard of the ECU deprogramming keys after the battery's been disconnected, though I guess it's possible. So let me get this straight. You bought the car in the US and you got the factory keys, and remotes. The car started fine before it was shipped out of the country. Now that it's down there you can't get it to start.

First question. Does the remote fob still unlock the doors? If it does then I doubt the key was deprogrammed from the memory as it still remembers the remote. Second question. Does the key you have actually unlock your doors, and fit in the ignition? Third question. Is there a little red light that flashes on the cluster (red car with a key on it) when the car's off. Fourth question. does the starter turn over? Fifth question. Do you have gas, and is the battery dead?