Experiencing trouble starting your Mazda CX-5 because of a dead or malfunctioning key fob can be frustrating. Fortunately, Mazda has equipped your CX-5 with a backup starting procedure to get you on your way even when your key fob fails. This guide will walk you through the steps on how to start your Mazda CX-5 without a working key fob, ensuring you’re not stranded.
Understanding Why Your Key Fob Might Fail
Before diving into the solution, it’s helpful to understand why your key fob might not be working. The most common reasons include:
- Dead Battery: Like any battery-operated device, your key fob’s battery will eventually die. This is the most frequent cause of key fob failure.
- Malfunctioning Key Fob: Less commonly, the key fob itself might malfunction due to internal electronic issues or damage.
- Signal Interference: In rare cases, strong radio frequency interference can block the signal between your key fob and your Mazda CX-5.
Regardless of the reason, knowing how to start your CX-5 without the fob is essential.
Precautions Before You Start
When using the emergency start procedure, it’s crucial to avoid actions that could prevent the system from correctly reading the key signal. Be mindful of the following:
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Avoid Metal Interference: Ensure no metal parts from other keys or metal objects are touching your Mazda key fob. Metal can interfere with the signal transmission.
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Keep Other Keys Separate: Spare keys or keys for other vehicles with immobilizer systems should not be in contact with or in close proximity to the key you are using. These can also cause signal interference.
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Distance from Electronic Devices: Devices used for electronic purchases or security access should also be kept away from the key during the starting process. These devices can emit signals that interfere with the key fob’s signal.
Step-by-Step Guide to Starting Your Mazda CX-5 Without a Key Fob
If your Mazda CX-5 fails to start due to a dead key fob battery, follow these steps to start the engine:
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Apply the Brakes: Firmly depress and hold down the brake pedal. Keep it depressed until the engine has completely started. For manual transmission models, also depress the clutch pedal fully and hold it down throughout the process.
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Observe the Push Button Start Light: Look for the push button start indicator light. It should be flashing green. This indicates the system is ready to recognize the key for emergency starting.
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Use the Backside of the Key Fob: Take your Mazda key fob and touch the push button start with the backside of the key fob. Ensure the side of the key fob with the lock switch is facing upwards when you touch the button.
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Verify Indicator Light Change: After touching the push button start with the key fob, check if the push button start indicator light turns from flashing green to solid green. This indicates the system has recognized the key.
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Start the Engine: With the indicator light now solid green, press the push button start as you normally would to start the engine. Continue to hold the brake pedal (and clutch pedal for manual transmissions) until the engine is running smoothly.
Important Notes and Troubleshooting
- Pedal Depression is Crucial: The engine will not start unless the brake pedal is fully depressed for automatic transmissions or the clutch pedal is fully depressed for manual transmissions. Ensure you are applying firm and consistent pressure.
- Amber Indicator Light: If the push button start indicator light flashes amber, this signifies a malfunction in the push button start system. While the engine might still start, it’s crucial to have your vehicle inspected by a certified Mazda repairer as soon as possible to diagnose and fix the issue.
- Green Light Not Illuminating: If the push button start indicator light does not illuminate green (flashing or solid), repeat the entire procedure from the beginning. If it still fails to illuminate, it’s recommended to seek professional assistance from an authorized Mazda repairer.
- Switching Ignition Positions Without Starting: To switch the ignition position without starting the engine (e.g., to ACC or ON mode), follow these steps after the push button start indicator light turns solid green:
- Release the brake pedal (or clutch pedal for manual transmissions).
- Press the push button start. Each press will cycle through the ignition positions: ACC, ON, and OFF. To switch again, repeat the process from step 1.
By following these instructions, you should be able to start your Mazda CX-5 even when your key fob battery is dead or malfunctioning. Remember to replace your key fob battery soon after using this emergency procedure to avoid future inconvenience. If you continue to experience issues, consult with a Mazda expert for further assistance.
