smartkey questions

[giraffe]

Has anybody tried going to a hardware store and getting a copy of the 'accessory key' that fits inside the smartkey? I don't like the idea of having only 2 keys for my car, and was hoping to get a few extra made. The guy who sold me the car said that the accessory key isn't chipped, and that a copy should work, but then the service manager told me that he thinks the keys are indeed chipped and that a copy won't work. He further told me that if I want a spare key for the car i'll have to shell out $47 for a new advanced key, PLUS a 90-something programming charge! All I really want is an extra key that I can stick on a keyring and use to unlock/start the car. Even my parents' luxury tech cars with fancy advanced keys came with extra valet keys!!

Also, I had a weird experience today when starting the car - the ignition knob wouldn't turn, so i did the conventional wisdom of twisting the steering wheel until I could start the car. Well the knob finally turned, but the engine wouldn't start! After a couple failed attempts, I gave up and pulled out the accessory key, and successfully started the car with that. Later, when driving home, the car started like normal. Has anybody else had any sort of experience like this?

[Raider]

We were told when we bought it, that the key is laser cut, and not to lose it. They are the only ones who can cut them, and non laser cut keys will not work.

[AWmustang]

These keys are not laser cut. Laser cut keys are the VW or Audi or Porsche keys where it's a groove cut into the side of the key.

The key that pulls out of the advanced key is indeed chipped. Non chipped keys will not start this car.

In theory a standard mazda valet key should work... which is probably the $45 plus $90 labor you were quoted. Because I guaruntee you that another whole advanced key card is going to cost WAY more than $45.


If you keep the key in your pocket with your cell phone there can be interference. I've had this happen before. Pulling the key out of my pocket allows me to start the car. Then it just goes back in my pocket.