You bought a second-hand Mazda.
It has a sleek key fob. Up on the dash there’s a push button. Perhaps the doors open when you touch the handle.
But what system do you really have?
Standard remote entry, as well as advanced keyless entry are available on Mazda. They look similar. They work differently.
And which one you own makes a difference – especially if you’re looking for a spare key.
The Big Difference: Push to Start vs Walk Away Auto-Lock
Most confusion starts here.
If you have a push-button start Mazda, then you have some type of keyless system. But that alone doesn’t mean it’s the beta version.
Typical advanced keyless entry features:
- Unlocking by touching the door handle
- Locking with the clicking of a button you press down on
- “Walk Away Auto-Lock” after you exit the car
In traditional remote entry, you press the button on the fob to lock or unlock.
No touch sensor.
No automatic locking.
That’s the easiest way to know.
How to Check Your Mazda?
Not sure? Try this.
Face your locked car with the key in your pocket.
Then:
- Slide your hand down the driver handle
- Wait a second
- See if it unlocks automatically
If you do, then you probably have advanced keyless entry.
Next test:
- Get out
- Close all doors
- Walk a few metres away
If the car will lock itself, then that confirms the walk away auto-lock.
If nothing happens until you press the fob, then you’re using standard entry.
Why It Matters for Replacements?
Advanced key fobs are different.
Proximity sensors and extra programming are inside them.
If you misplace one, an ordinary key cutter is no help. You’ll want to call an auto locksmith or the dealership if it has programming tools.
Buy the wrong replacement, and it can be a frustrating and costly setback.
This is why it’s important to know about your system before pulling out the phone book and calling for a Mazda car key replacement.
Common Second-Hand Buyer Confusion
A lot of used car listings just say “keyless.”
That word doesn’t entirely capture it.
- There’s a big difference between:
- Keyless entry (push button start)
- Buttonless proximity entry (also known as touch and walk-away)
Even some owners of Mazda think they have the fancy version because their car has push-button start.
‘Push to start’ does not automatically include the Walk Away Auto-Lock.
What the Fob Looks Like?
High-tech fobs can be indistinguishable from low-tech ones.
But cars with proximity entry generally let you unlock them without taking the key out of your pocket.
If you have to push the button yourself each time, it’s probably standard.
When asking about Mazda car key replacement always remember to say:
- Year and model
- Push-button or key ignition
- If it locks when you walk away
Detailed information will assist your auto locksmith in finding the right fob as well as which programming method to use.
Why Upgrading Isn’t Always Simple?
Some owners inquire about upgrading from standard to advanced.
In most cases, it requires:
- Additional sensors in door handles
- Vehicle module compatibility
- Software programming
It’s not only an exchange of key.
If you’re not sure about the features your particular make and model has, it’s best to consult a professional auto locksmith.
Know Before You Need It
Major distinctions may appear slight − until you misplace a fob.
Know your system now to avoid stress later.
Whether you have a simple remote entry or the whole advanced keyless entry, information isn’t just power, it saves time when doing Mazda car keys replacement.
Push button start is not everything.
Touch sensors and Walk Away Auto-Lock does.
Check today.
You may not know what your Mazda can really do.