Remote Entry Key Fob...What's the best way to get one?

[BunnyS4nd0]

Just got a '09 Sport...dealer had one key...I got two kids and I need remote entry

Any suggestions where to find a reliable remote key fob? I see a bunch out there but they all look a little sketch...has anybody had any recent success with this problem...I'm not looking for the switchblade fob...just remote entry.

Should I just go to the dealership and pay them to take my pain away? I really don't want to do that...

 

[Davebert]

I think Ebay would be your cheaper source for a switchblade fob, it is just too expensive at dealer. You can then get the key cut at your local locksmith and some locksmith also have the equipment either to program of clone the new fob for you, call around your area to see if anyone near you can do that. Otherwise you will have to go to the dealer to have it program since you only have one working remote. This way you are only paying the dealer to program the new remote.

 

[BunnyS4nd0]

Do I need to worry about an FCC ID when buying on of these?

 

[Davebert]

I don't think so, all the Mazda and Ford uses the same frequency and MD4 chip but the later ones I think starting from 2012 are different. Just make sure you get one that is a 3 button model not the 4 button one.

 

[Silentnoise713]

Just throwing this out there as an alternative (does not apply to all, considering cost).

Depending on how much you pay to get the 2nd cloned + parts, you can take this opportunity to consider getting a remote start alarm. It will definitely cost more money but it will bypass the stock immobilizer (aftermarket immobilizer) and you can get plane keys cut anywhere. The idea is the cost of the 2nd fob goes towards the alarm. Of course, not everyone wants remote start or an alarm.

 

[icspots]

There may even be an OEM remote fob (non-switchblade) which works with the 5's KEU. I'd drop an e-mail to Jason at www.onlinemazdaparts.com (mazdapart@gmail.com) and see if he can compare different parts from different vehicles and find one which works. He was instrumental in the 3 community in figuring out which flip remotes from other models were compatible with the 3.

That said I'm guessing you're still looking at over $100 new for a remote. The flip remotes for the newer 3's run around $111 for just the remote section.... that's basically the same price as the stand alone remote fobs for the same years. If he can figure out a remote for which works you could then either buy it from him, or take that data and go shopping online.

The problem with the key is since you have only one working key the dealer needs to connect to the car's computer to manually input key codes for a second key. The process takes about 45 minutes and usually costs around $50-75 (depends on the dealer). Once you have two working keys you can program in an additional key yourself. Then with three keys should you ever lose one you'll still have two keys and can just repeat the process.

The other option as noted above is some locksmiths can clone your existing key code to a second key's RFID chip. You'd have two physical keys but as far as the car is concerned it's just one key.