FOB Proximity?

[pmont1]

Does anyone know what the max working distance is for the FOB on a 09' Mazda 5?

If the FOB is not required to be attached to the key, then there may be some interesting options for not carrying the absurdly bulky remote.

(thought)

[coolmazda5]

It depends, I've experienced 40-60ft if battery is new and there are no obstructions (i.e. walls or other bigger cars), but I don't really need long distances...

If you don't like the big key you can get one of these (marketplace area):
http://www.mazdas247.com/forum/showthread.php?t=123740905

[pmont1]

What I'm most interested in is the max distance the FOB can be to start the car. For example, if one were to have a standard key copy made w/o FOB, it wouldn't start the car. But will it start if the FOB is in the glove compartment, or other nearby location?

[coolmazda5]

What I'm most interested in is the max distance the FOB can be to start the car. For example, if one were to have a standard key copy made w/o FOB, it wouldn't start the car. But will it start if the FOB is in the glove compartment, or other nearby location?

That is incorrect. The programmed chip to start the car is in the key itself (granted that you buy an OEM key, not any aftermarket key), not in the fob. So you can open/close (via the keyhole) and start the car with it once programmed properly.

The fob "part" is only programmed to open/close remotely and activate the intermittent honk if needed (or activate/deactivate the alarm if your car has that feature)

So, if you can cut and program a non-fob OEM Mazda Key I believe it will be the best...

[pmont1]

Thanks.... I was thinking the key electronics behaved more like RFID.

[coolmazda5]

There is more info here, it may be helpful:


Check this programming guide, there is some extra info which might help:
http://www.mazdas247.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=123901

The related thread is here:
http://www.mazdas247.com/forum/showthread.php?t=123695620

[whitealexander]

thanks for the link..

[Heat]

If you buy your key at the dealer, they will (should) cut it at no extra cost. They can cut it based off of the VIN only.

Stop by your local dealer and ask for key number F1Y1762GX, the cost will be US$28.22 plus tax, cut. This is a "normal" key and gets you away from the "absurdly bulky remote" which it is. Plus it's virtually shock proof and it is also water proof - I really don't think the transponder is either.

Or you can order this key from here: http://www.trademotion.com/partlocator/index.cfm?siteid=214264 for US$22.58 plus $6.50 shipping (cut at no extra charge). Or buy it from the marketplace link shown above.

Of course, the only way to open the Mazda with this key is to go through the driver's door since that is the only key lock on the car. That being said, this is the key I have on my keyring in my pocket - much smaller and I don't have to worry about it getting wet or hit by something.