Try calling up several local locksmith shops. You'll pay only a small fraction of what the stealerships will charge you, and they will be able to program it with just 1 key. Also locksmiths will almost always cut your key for free in-shop (mine did), but charge you a small fee for programming.


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What dealer did you ask? My fob died tonight and I'm debating whether or not I want to get a switchblade key/fob. I have only ever had one key and that hasn't been a problem except for now when I'd really rather have had two so I could program the switchblade..

 

I asked Freeman Mazda but I found a locksmith on Midway rd who will do it for $50.

 

Let me know how he works out, because I really hate not having a key fob!

 

The key arrived today I was able to program the fob with no problem it works great, tomorrow I will have it cut and programed.

 

Sweet! Let me know if that guy can program it successfully.

 

I only had 1 key and the locksmith was able to program it for only $35. The key cost $40 on Ebay so I came out of a total of $75 thats less than the price the dealer was trying to charge me for just programming the key ($150).

 

Yup. Always bring it to the the transponder key to a locksmith if you only have 1 key and can't program it yourself. Avoid the dealership (stealership) at all costs. Don't listen to anyone that says otherwise, unless you like paying 4x more at the stealership. lol

 

as i post this, im putting on my flamesuit as a precaution..

after reading all of this, im still kind of confused. i have a 2004 Mazda Rx-8 Touring (made 04/04). i bought it used and i got a regular and a valet key, no remote. im wanting a remote, but the stealership wants $140 for one
i also really like the switchblade key and really want one. can i go on ebay and buy a switchblade key like ive seen for $50 shipped and have it cut and programmed myself instead of from mazda without issues? anything i need to keep in mind or look out for in the process?

 

my understanding is yes, and since you have 2 keys you don't have to pay for programming

 

Read the procedure. You've got everything you need (except the switchblade and blank) to do it yourself with a quick trip to a hardware store to copy your existing (not valet) key to the blank.





The valet key definitely works as part of coding -- just don't use it to cut your new key. And you do not need an existing FOB. They all get re-registered when you follow the specific procedure for them... again, documented above.

 

thanks, but i saw something in the earlier pages about needed a certain coded remote for it to work properly, is this true? or will almost any remote work? heres a listing off ebay, will either of these work?

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/2005-...Q5fAccessories

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/2005-...Q5fAccessories

 

Everyone (especially us 2004 guys) goes through the is my KP bla bla bla number valid, will it work, yahde yahda thing.

Just do it. Mine worked the first time. Apparently some aren't as successful, but with your build date well into 04 (mine was 11 of 03) you'll probably be just fine.

 

Ok, figured I would make double check as I'm out of a job right now so I don't have the money to fix my screw up if I get this wrong. Thanks

 

If it doesn't work send it back. I recall the ebay guys who sold the switchblade keys to be decent people.

 

ordered a key. should arrive next week or the week after. ill let you guys know how it goes.

 

got it, and it works! :D

 

Those of you who have used locksmith, can you call them up and ask what program/hardware they used? I called at least 10 different locksmiths, and none of them could do my key. I ended up making an appointment for the dealer thats an hour away! The local dealer said even he couldn't do it! I live in socal too!
I just figured it might help people if they end up in my predicament

 

I ordered a couple switchblades from eBay. I think I screwed up. I only have 1 original key. I was able to get the eBay key to open the doors, but it won't start the car after it was cut by Mazda.

I was assuming that programming it to open doors was the same as programming it to start the car.

Was my assumption incorrect?

 

Thanks for the info guys I really needed a extra key i only had one

 

Correct, your assumption was incorrect.

Mazda, or any number of locksmiths from what I've read, have the computer necessary to code your key without the second key.

 

can you program the new key with just one key?? have anyone tryed this??

 

No. Did you read this thread?
you need AT LEAST 2 keys that are already cut/programmed (this can include the valet key) to program another key, after having it cut.

If you don't have 2 keys already that will unlock/start the car you will have to get the new key cut (anywhere can cut the key so it unlocks the door) AND you will have to get it programmed so it will start the car. You can get the programming done at a dealership or at select locksmiths.

Once you have those 2 programmed you can program another.

If your FOB goes bad you don't need any working ones to program the new one. All you need is ONE functioning key (fully functioning, unlocks and starts car). Use that key and follow the procedure to program the FOB.

If you have an '04 you CAN buy the switchblade FOB with FCC ID: KPU41788. It will program correctly.

I hope this is a reasonable summary for those reading the thread.

 

I no longer have my key fob but i'm guessing my fcc id is KPU41805 like some of the other ppl who have 04 rx8's. I don't know if this will sound stupid it or not but bare with me, the switchblade key that i see everyone talking about has the fcc id KPU 41788. Will "41788" switchblade keys work with my 8 even though it's id is "41805"? I really want one but don't feel like paying crack prices for one and I see them online for real cheap but the fcc id does not match my cars.

 

Sorry, I found the answer to my question on here. That's what I get for being a noob and only reading the first page of the thread. Sorry for wasting everyones time.