Losing your car keys or dealing with a malfunctioning key fob can be a major headache, not to mention expensive. If you drive a 2007 Mazda CX-9, you might be facing hefty dealer charges to replace and program a new key fob. But what if you could take matters into your own hands? This guide will walk you through the process of programming a new key fob and blade for your 2007 Mazda CX-9, potentially saving you a significant amount of money. This is based on real-world experience and intended for informational purposes – proceed at your own risk.
The Predicament: Lost Keys and Expensive Replacements
Like many Mazda CX-9 owners, I found myself in a frustrating situation: losing my primary advanced keyless entry fob (the credit card style). I was left with a broken spare fob and only one working blade. Thinking a simple battery replacement would solve the issue with the broken fob, I quickly realized the problem was more serious.
Upon opening the broken fob (a task that proved to be quite difficult due to the glued casing), I discovered a broken battery connector on the PCB. Attempts to repair it with soldering and even an external battery holder were unsuccessful, ultimately leading to further damage to the antenna during PCB migration. This experience highlighted the fragility of these key fobs and the need for a more robust solution.
Finding a Cost-Effective Solution: Aftermarket Key Fobs
Faced with the exorbitant cost of dealership key fob replacements (around $350 each, unprogrammed), I began searching for alternatives. My research led me to www.abkeys.com, a website offering replacement key fobs at a much more reasonable price. I purchased two new key fobs for $125 each (blade not included). To my surprise, they arrived in original Mazda packaging, adding a layer of reassurance about their quality.
Key Blade and Transponder Considerations
To complete the key replacement, I needed a new key blade. Initially, I acquired an uncut blade, assuming key cutting would be straightforward. However, local hardware stores and auto parts stores declined to cut it. A locksmith quoted a steep $120, but thankfully, suggested the Mazda dealer, who offered key cutting for a mere $20 after verifying vehicle ownership with the car title and ID.
A crucial detail I overlooked initially was the transponder chip. The first cut key blade lacked this essential component. Realizing this, I sourced a blade with a 4D-63 transponder for $20 online from https://carkeysexpress.com/store/ke…09/1001167-mazda-transponder-key-blade-insert. Another trip to the Mazda dealer for cutting, and I finally had all the necessary hardware.
Important Tip: Mazda dealers can cut a new key blade based on your VIN, even without an original key present. This can be a lifesaver if you’ve lost all your keys.
Programming Your 2007 Mazda CX-9 Key Fob: The Software and Steps
Acquiring the key fobs and blades is only half the battle. Programming them to work with your 2007 Mazda CX-9 requires specialized software: either FORscan or Mazda Integrated Diagnostic System (IDS). These tools are typically used by dealerships and locksmiths for vehicle diagnostics and programming.
For this process, I already had a VCM USB module and Mazda IDS software. Here’s a step-by-step guide to programming your key fob and blade:
- Connect to Your Vehicle: Open Mazda IDS and establish a connection with your Mazda CX-9. Verify your VIN and ensure proper communication.
- Access PATS Menu: Navigate to the “Programming” menu, then enter the “PATS” (Passive Anti-Theft System) section. Important: Keep your car doors closed throughout the programming process to ensure the lock/unlock function works correctly later.
- Obtain Outcode (If Required): For certain years, including 2007, you might need an outcode to gain security access. Websites like www.autokeyprog.com can assist with this.
- Gain Security Access: Follow the IDS prompts to input the outcode and gain security access to the PATS system.
- Program Ignition Key: Select “Program additional ignition key.” The system will instruct you to remove the working key and insert the new key blade. Confirm the action to program the new blade’s transponder.
- Program Remote Key Fob: Choose “Program additional remote key.” Place the new, unprogrammed key fob on the passenger seat. The car locks will cycle (lock/unlock). Afterward, press the “unlock” button on the new fob twice. The car should respond with another lock/unlock cycle, indicating successful fob programming.
- Repeat for Additional Fobs: If you have multiple key fobs to program, repeat step 6 for each additional fob.
- Completion: Once finished, you should have successfully programmed your new key fobs and blades for your 2007 Mazda CX-9.
Key Considerations Before You Begin
Before embarking on DIY key fob programming, keep these crucial points in mind:
- Verify FCC ID: Check the FCC ID on the back of your original key fob (near the blade insert). Ensure the replacement fobs have a matching FCC ID to guarantee compatibility.
- Button Layout: Mazda CX-9 key fobs come in 3-button and 4-button variations, with options for auto liftgate or panic buttons. Select the correct button layout to match your needs.
- Frequency (MHz): Confirm the correct MHz frequency for your market. The US market frequency differs from the European market. Reputable suppliers like Abkeys usually provide this information in the product description.
- Part Number Verification: Contact your Mazda dealer and provide your VIN to obtain the correct key fob part number. Be aware that the part number might cover various button configurations, so double-check the FCC ID and button layout.
- Two Working Blades Minimum: Crucially, ensure you have at least two programmed key blades before starting this process. If you only have one working blade, obtain and program a new transponder blade and have it cut before attempting key fob programming. Programming with fewer than two working blades can potentially immobilize your vehicle.
- Minimize Interference: While programming, it’s advisable to keep cell phones and other potential sources of radio interference outside the vehicle. Although the impact of this is uncertain, it’s a simple precaution to take.
- Transponder Blade Cost: Be wary of extremely cheap key blades (e.g., $2). These likely lack a transponder chip and are unusable for starting the car. Blades with transponders typically cost between $10 and $20.
- Transponder Verification: If you are unsure if a key blade has a transponder, a key without a transponder will physically fit into the lock cylinder but will not allow you to turn the lock cylinder to unlock the car manually. A blade with a transponder, even if not programmed, should allow you to manually unlock the car (but not start it).
Conclusion: Empowerment Through DIY Key Fob Programming
Replacing and programming a 2007 Mazda CX-9 key fob yourself is a complex but achievable task. By sourcing aftermarket key fobs, utilizing software like FORscan or Mazda IDS, and carefully following the programming steps, you can save a significant amount compared to dealership costs. While it requires research, patience, and attention to detail, the satisfaction of successfully programming your own key fobs and regaining full vehicle access is well worth the effort. This DIY approach empowers Mazda CX-9 owners to take control of their car key needs and avoid expensive dealership markups.
