Changing the Battery in Your Mazda 3 Key Fob

It can be a bit frustrating to get into your car at the end of a long day and find that the key fob is dead. Fortunately, it is an easy fix using simple battery replacement from a hardware store or Mazda 3 Key big box retailer.

Incorporating a spare key fob to your mazda 6 key 3 can be an affordable way to keep yourself from having to be towed to the dealership and having them reprogram your keys.

Battery Replacement

Change the battery in your Mazda 3 key fob is an easy process that can perform at home. You should only replace it if the battery dies or if you see a message reading "Low keyfob battery" on the multi-information display. Replace battery."

To open the key fob case You'll need a tape wrapped flathead screwdriver, along with some patience. Put the flathead screwdriver's tip in a notch or gap on the bottom metal of the Mazda 3 key fob to pry the lower half off. Repeat the procedure for the top metal piece Be careful not to scratch the rubber ring on the bottom of the case.

Once the fob's case is open, you'll be able to see an opening on either side of the case that houses the battery. Use the flathead screwdriver with tape to gently open the case, starting with one side and shifting to the other. Remove the old CR2025 and replace it with a brand new one, making sure you put it on its face to ensure the correct orientation. Put the cap of the battery on the other side and attach both sides of your key fob case by pressing until they click.

After replacing the battery, test the fob to verify that it functions by locking and unlocking your doors. If everything looks good, your Mazda 3 remote features can be used again.

Pairing Issues

If your key fob stopped working suddenly, this could indicate that the transmitter inside the car has been damaged. This is usually a matter of a professional to repair and may require a replacement key fob.

If you've tried replacing the battery and programming the key fob but has not solved the problem it is possible the chip inside the key fob might be defective. This could happen if the keyfob was dropped, exposed to saltwater, or the touch of dirty fingers.

To determine the cause You will need to locate a tiny "key" that is embedded into the seam of the fob that allows you to take it apart and remove the circuit board. Then, you can examine the electronic chip for corrosion or damage. To prevent damaging the chip, it's recommended to use a clean paper towel.

If you're not sure then you should also examine the battery connector terminals for cracks or breakage. If this is the situation it is possible to solder the terminals back into place can usually restore functionality to the key fob. It is also possible to check the buttons for damage or wear. If the buttons are loosened, they can be resoldered into position, unless they've physically snapped.

Interference Signals

There are few things more frustrating than staring at a "No Fob Detected" message when trying to start your car. This usually occurs at the most awkward moments, like when you are late for work or picking up children from daycare/school. The good thing is that there are steps you can take to troubleshoot the issue and determine the cause.

Interference signals can cause the remote key fob not to function properly. This could be due to things like weather conditions, buildings and transmitters operating on the same frequency. Interference could occur if your vehicle has aftermarket equipment that transmits at the same frequency as your key fob.

The key fob can also be damaged if exposed to salt water or water. Water can penetrate the rubber seals of the electronic chip, particularly if the key fob is submerged in water for an extended time. This could cause the chip to cease working and may require replacement of the key fob. If you own a programmable key, you can clean the chip with isopropyl alcohol or an electronic cleaner to aid in its return to functionality. If this does not work the chip, it's likely to be fried and will require to be replaced.

Locking/Unlocking of the Doors

The buttons on the key fob send electronic signals to a solenoid within the car. It then transforms the signal into a mechanical action that locks and unlocks doors. If the door lock isn't working, the problem could be a solenoid malfunction that requires investigation by an expert repair shop for autos.

A dead 12 volt could also prevent the fob from working effectively. This could happen if the battery is not charged or if your contacts get corrosion-prone. The good news is that a new battery can resolve this issue in a matter of minutes.

If the key fob isn't working after changing the battery or try to reprogram it, the issue might be with the receiver module. This device interprets radio frequency signals sent by the key fob to control the vehicle. If it malfunctions it could be costly to fix.

To determine if this is the case, begin by putting your spare key into the key slot and turning the ignition to ON. Press the key fob two times in 10 seconds, without taking it out. The Mazda 3 system synchronizes the key with the vehicle, so you can use it as your primary driving remote. You can program up to three keys in this manner.