2004 Key Fob Issues
 

I purchased my 04 with 2 keys and key fobs and only one of them worked. I assumed the one just had a dead battery. So I used the working one for about 6 months now and it quit working. I replaced the batteries in both and now both of them still don't work. I read the owners manual and it didn't give any instructions and told you to take it to the dealer, so I did and they want $50 for it which I find a little ridiculous. So I searched more and found the program procedure which is as follows.

remove key and open door
put key in ignition and flip back between on and off 3 times and leave off
then open and close door 3 times and leave open and the locks will lock
then press any button twice

I did this procedure many times and the doors were locking as they should after the third open but when I press any button twice it does not work still.

I've tried this procedure to death with both fobs with new batteries installed correctly, am I missing something or do I need to see a dealer. I would really rather not spend $50 for a dealer to open and close my door a few times.

I'm having exactly the same issue right now and it sounds like that's just how it goes with these remotes. Not sure even the dealer will be able to do something about it. I was recommended to get a keyfob from later years and program it. Waiting for Mazmart to get back to me about getting one that way.

This is just absolutely ridiculous. Please keep me posted if you get a new remote.

Bump, any solutions to this issue?

I had the same problem & bought a switchblade keyfob & it worked.
I also changed the battery in the OEM fob & it tested ok on one of those part store testers but still didn't work. It's common for 04 fobs.
I got mine from Remote Superstore, around $80 for a new one if I remember right.
I think the thread was "keyless entry not working". All the info is there.

Thank you for answering my question from yesterday BC. No one in the B@W thread answered it.

Keyless Entry Remotes at Remote Superstore

So what you're saying is it's a known issue for the key fobs to just quit working and mazda has never done anything about it

Sorry bro, I was super busy yesterday programming & proving out a new part.

Bump. Looking for solutions other than shelling out copious amounts of money for a key fob.

Sam,

There is no other option. The '04 FOB's have the known issue that once they die, their done.

You need to either go see your dealer and pay a ton of cash or, take the same advice i gave to Loki which he has already repeated.

Thanks for the info. I wasn't getting a clear cut answer wether or not they were permanently done for. Now I wish I wouldn't have wasted money buying batteries and time trying to make them work.

What battery number are you using?