Is your 2012 Mazda 6 key fob starting to act up? A common culprit is a dead or dying battery. Fortunately, replacing the battery in your Mazda 6 key fob is a straightforward process you can easily do yourself, saving time and money compared to dealership service. This guide will walk you through the steps to replace your key fob battery and, if necessary, reprogram your remote.
Step-by-Step 2012 Mazda 6 Key Fob Battery Replacement
Before considering reprogramming, let’s tackle the battery replacement. You’ll typically need a CR2025 or CR2032 3V coin cell battery – check your owner’s manual or the old battery for the exact type. Here’s how to replace it:
- Locate the Notch: On the side of your Mazda 6 key fob, you’ll find a small notch.
- Pry it Open: Use a small flathead screwdriver or a coin to gently pry open the key fob casing at the notch. Be careful not to scratch the plastic.
- Open the Casing: Once you’ve pried it open slightly, you should be able to separate the two halves of the key fob casing with your fingers.
- Remove the Old Battery: Carefully remove the old, round, coin-like battery. Note the orientation (+ and – sides).
- Insert New Battery: Install the new battery, ensuring the correct polarity (usually positive side up).
- Close the Casing: Snap the two halves of the key fob casing back together until they are securely closed.
After replacing the battery, test your key fob to see if it now works. If it does, you’re all set! If your key fob still isn’t functioning correctly after a battery replacement, or if it has lost its programming, you might need to reprogram it to your 2012 Mazda 6.
2008-2012 Mazda 6 Key Fob Programming Instructions (May Apply to 2012 Models)
While the following instructions are originally for a 2008 Mazda 6, this programming method is often applicable to models around the 2012 year as well. It’s worth trying these steps to reprogram your key fob:
- Get Ready: Ensure all doors are closed, the driver’s door is open, and the key is out of the ignition.
- Lock/Unlock Door: Use the power lock switch on the driver’s door panel to lock and then unlock the door.
- Insert and Turn Key: Insert the key into the ignition.
- ON/OFF Cycle (3 Times): Turn the key to the “ON” position and then back to the “OFF” position three times within 10 seconds. Crucially, leave the key in the “OFF” position after the third cycle. (OFF to ON then back to OFF, repeated three times, ending in OFF).
- Open/Close Driver’s Door (3 Times): Open and close the driver’s door three times, ending with the door in the open position. You can also use the door jamb switch if it’s easier.
- Locks Should Cycle: At this point, the door locks should automatically lock and unlock to indicate programming mode is active.
- Press Remote Button (Twice): Take your key fob remote and press any button on it twice. The doors should lock and unlock again to confirm successful programming of that remote.
- Program Additional Remotes (If Needed): If you have a second remote to program, immediately press any button on it twice. Again, the locks should cycle.
- Final Cycle: Remove the key from the ignition. The door locks should lock and unlock one last time.
- Test: Test all your programmed remotes to ensure they are working correctly.
If these steps don’t work on your 2012 Mazda 6, consult your owner’s manual for specific programming instructions for your exact model year. There may also be helpful video tutorials online demonstrating the process for your car.
Troubleshooting Key Fob Issues
If you’re still having trouble after replacing the battery and attempting reprogramming, consider these troubleshooting tips:
- Check Fuses: Inspect your car’s fuse box for any blown fuses related to the keyless entry system.
- Try Again: Programming can sometimes be finicky. Try repeating the programming procedure a few times, carefully following each step.
- New Battery: Ensure you are using a fresh, new battery of the correct type.
- Faulty Fob: In rare cases, the key fob itself might be faulty and need replacement.
- Professional Help: If all else fails, it might be time to consult a qualified automotive locksmith or your Mazda dealer for further diagnosis and assistance.
Replacing your 2012 Mazda 6 key fob battery is usually a simple fix. By following these steps, you can often resolve key fob issues quickly and get back on the road with a working remote.
