Lost Car Keys Replacement

All You Need to Know about Car Keys, Programming and more

Mazda RX-8 Lost Car Key Replacement – All the Information You Need to Get a New Mazda RX-8 Key. Tips, Costs, Your Options, and More.

Mazda RX-8 car keys replacement
Mazda RX-8 car keys replacement

 

Call Us Now: 800-223-1453

 

In this article:

Mazda RX-8 replacement car keys – Introduction

Automotive locksmith coding a Mazda key fob
Automotive locksmith coding a Mazda key fob

Mazda RX-8 keys replacement by year – not sure which key you had: Was it a regular key, transponder chip, or remote key fob? Find out here

Have you lost your Mazda RX-8 car key? – How do I get a replacement key? What options do I have?

Mazda RX-8 key replacement near me – things to remember before calling a locksmith

Mazda RX-8 car key replacement cost

Key programming machine for Mazda RX-8 keys
Key programming machine for Mazda RX-8 keys

Tips for Mazda RX-8 key fob replacement – What to ask and verify before and after you get a new key fob

Can I get a replacement Mazda RX-8 key by Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)?

Mazda RX-8 key programming – which keys can you program yourself? how to program your key & more.

Keyless entry information Mazda RX-8

Remote key fob for a Mazda RX-8
Remote key fob for a Mazda RX-8

Mazda RX-8 key fob battery replacement – How do I change or replace the battery? What is the cost? What size is the battery? And more.

 

Introduction:

Mazda RX-8 key replacement - All you need to know

Mazda RX-8 model was introduced in 2004. This model has two types of keys.

Remote key fob: 2006 to 2010.

Transponder chip key: 2005 to 2011.

Emergency key and key fob - Mazda
Emergency key and key fob – Mazda
MaxiIM 508 car key programming machine for Mazda models
MaxiIM 508 car key programming machine for Mazda models

 

Quick access or go to FAQ

 

Click on the type of key you had or your year model below to get the most accurate information:

 

Mazda RX-8 w/Prox:

 

2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010: (BGBX1T458SKE11A01)

2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 Mazda RX-8 remote key fob replacement (BGBX1T458SKE11A01)
2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 Mazda RX-8 remote key fob replacement (BGBX1T458SKE11A01)

 

 

Mazda RX-8 w/o Prox:

 

2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011: (KPU41788)

2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 Mazda RX-8 transponder key replacement (KPU41788)
2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 Mazda RX-8 transponder key replacement (KPU41788)

 

 

 

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FAQ:

 

Q: I lost my Mazda RX-8 car keys. I don’t have a spare, so need a replacement. How and where can I get a replacement key?

How to get a Mazda RX-8 replacement key

 

Generally speaking, you have three options:

First, call an automotive locksmith near you that offers a mobile service for Mazda RX-8 cars. We can connect you with a locksmith near you.

Second, tow the car to a Mazda dealership.

Third, order a key online and have the dealer or locksmith cut and program it for you (if necessary).

A word of caution: The type of key you need depends on the year and model of your Mazda RX-8. Therefore, the options for getting a new key made and programmed depend on whether you need a remote key fob, a transponder chip key, or a regular metal key.

 

Let’s review each option.
Locksmith:
Mazda chip key coding by an automotive locksmith
Mazda chip key coding by an automotive locksmith

An automotive locksmith can make most car keys on-site, including keys for the newest Mazda RX-8 models. Most automotive locksmiths offer a mobile service because most Mazda RX-8 keys made after 1998 need to be programmed or coded to the car.

This Coding process can’t be done remotely and involves connecting the coding machine physically to the car’s OBD (like in the picture below) and therefore the car must be present.

Car OBD and coding machine
Car OBD and coding machine

Saying that, you will have to make sure that the locksmith carries the necessary equipment to cut and program a replacement key, including the right coding machine (e.g. MVP Pro Car Key Programmer Advanced Diagnostics or Smart Pro coding machine by Advanced Diagnostics) and the right key blank (remote key fob or chip key).

The best way to do that is to provide the locksmith with the year make and model or VIN number when you call.

Because Mazda RX-8 is a very common car, chances are they will have the right key blank for your model.

"Lishi tools" used by an automotive locksmith to decode Mazda RX-8 keys
“Lishi tools” used by an automotive locksmith to decode Mazda RX-8 keys

Usually, a locksmith would be your fastest, most convenient and cheapest option overall to get a replacement key.

 

Order the key online:
New Mazda key fob on a computer operated cutting machine
New Mazda key fob on a computer operated cutting machine

Today you can get most Mazda RX-8 keys online (with the exception of the most recent model) and relatively fast within 24 Hr. Getting a replacement key online has its pros and cons.

This option is mostly relevant for people who need a duplicate or spare key and can drive the car.

For people who have lost their Mazda RX-8 keys and don’t have a spare, it may not be as relevant.

The reason is that when you order a key online, it is what we call a “blank key”.

A blank key is a key that needs to be cut, and, as mentioned above for most Mazda RX-8 keys made after 1998, programmed or coded with a special machine.

Advanced Diagnostics "Smart Pro" coding machine for Mazda RX-8 car keys
Advanced Diagnostics “Smart Pro” coding machine for Mazda RX-8 car keys

Therefore, ordering a replacement key online is only the first step. You will still have to contact and pay either the dealer or locksmith to have the key cut and programmed.

Moreover, remember that although many car keys may look alike, they have different security features and chip values. This is especially true for remote key fobs sold online and so it’s very easy for most people to get confused and order the wrong key.

 

The third option- Mazda dealership:

The last option to get a Mazda RX-8 key replacement without the original is to look for a Mazda dealership near you.

The plus side is that they will have the right key blank in stock and should be able to program the key for you as well, even for the latest model as they carry the newest coding machines for Mazda models.

MaxiIM 508 car key programming machine for Mazda models
MaxiIM 508 car key programming machine for Mazda models

The downside is that the dealership usually charges more for a replacement key than a locksmith would.

Another major downside of getting a replacement key at the dealership is that if you had a transponder chip key or key fob (or in other words if your car was made after 1998 as explained above) you will have to tow the car there, which will make the process even more expansive.

Mazda transponder key on a computer operated cutting machine
Mazda transponder key on a computer operated cutting machine
In conclusion,

If your Mazda RX-8 had a chip key or key fob, and you need a replacement ASAP, a locksmith would be your best bet.

The only exception for that is if you just bought a brand-new car, and then a Mazda dealer would be the best way.

In case you only need a spare key, you can try and get it online, but make sure you know exactly which key blank or part number you need.

 

Not ready to call for service just yet? Click here for some GREAT ideas on how to find lost car keys.

Tool to check chip value of Mazda car key
Tool to check chip value of Mazda car key

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Q: Mazda RX-8 key replacement near me – How to find a locksmith or dealer and what should you tell them?

Mazda RX-8 key replacement service near your location - Tips

First, make sure you have the exact year, make, and model, e.g., 2011 Mazda RX-8.

In addition, write down the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) of the car located on the left side of the dashboard near the mirror. The VIN helps the locksmith or dealer verify the year, make, and model of the car and determine which key you had.

Check a few locksmiths near your location

Also, keep in mind that many locksmiths offer mobile service and travel up to 30 miles radius from where their store is located. Therefore, depending on your location, it might be a good idea to expand your search and call for a few additional quotes, even if on the map, these locksmiths seem to be far from you.

All Mazda RX-8 key fobs and transponder keys must be coded with the car on-site
All Mazda RX-8 key fobs and transponder keys must be coded with the car on-site
Remember,

Their distance as you see on the map, is their business address, not their physical and current location. All you have to make sure is that they carry the right equipment to cut and program your Mazda RX-8 key.

You can also try and call a few Mazda dealers near your location, but remember that you will need to tow the car there.

Mazda car key programming machine
Mazda car key programming machine

Finally, make sure you can show ownership of the car by having the necessary documents – title, ID, insurance card, etc.

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Q: Mazda RX-8 key replacement cost – How much does it cost to replace a Mazda RX-8 key without the original? What is the average price?

Mazda RX-8 key replacement cost - estimate only

 

In short, replacing a Mazda RX-8 key can cost between $170 to $320. The cost depends on a number of factors:
  1. The type of key you need
  2. The car’s year of manufacture
  3. Time of day & your location
  4. Where you get a key replacement (dealer, automotive locksmith, online, etc.)
  5. Availability of code to cut a new key
  6. Original ignition or not

Factors to consider about key replacement cost

The type of key you had and the year the car was manufactured are the most important factors for identifying if you need a chip, intelligent fob, “push to start”, remote, regular “non-transponder” key. The newer the car is, the better the security features the key has. On later models, you can therefore expect to pay more than $250 for a replacement key.

All Mazda key fobs and transponder keys must be coded with a special machine
All Mazda key fobs and transponder keys must be coded with a special machine
Also,

the price depends on where you get a key replacement. Did your replacement key come from the dealer, or an automotive locksmith? Or did you get it online? Click here to get a more detailed explanation of how to get a replacement key.

The dealer usually charges about 10% to 15% less for the replacement key than a locksmith would charge. However, you will likely have to tow the car there to program the new key or remote. Therefore, the total price is usually higher.

New Mazda chip keys coded on-site
New Mazda chip keys coded on-site
Furthermore,

consider that if you have a locksmith come out and make you a new key outside regular business hours, the price may increase.

Finally,

If you have previously had your ignition cylinder replaced, which is quite common in older cars, this probably means that the code for the key may not be useful. In such cases, the key will have to be cut manually by a locksmith, or you will have to change the ignition again, and here the dealer can’t help.

Rekey kit to change Mazda RX-8 ignition cylinder parts
Rekey kit to change Mazda RX-8 ignition cylinder parts

For a more detailed explanation and GREAT TIPS on how to save money, please visit our blog post: Car keys replacement costs

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Tips for Mazda RX-8 key fob replacement – What to ask and verify before and after you get a new key fob:

Mazda RX-8 key fob replacement - Emergency key and battery
Mazda RX-8 key fob replacement – Emergency key and battery

Very often when people get a replacement key fob, there are certain things they forget to check and ask the dealer or locksmith.

 

We gathered here the most relevant information and tips to make sure you won’t face a problem down the road.
First,

Make sure to get the key code of your Mazda RX-8 key fob – Every key fob, has a unique code that locksmiths and dealers use to know the exact cuts to match your ignition, door and trunk cylinders.

Ask and keep your key code in a safe place

Obviously, this code is different from one car to another. This key code costs money, and before the locksmith or dealer cut you a new key fob, they must pay to get the code from the Mazda database, which may cost them up to $100. Make sure you write down this key code and keep it in a safe place. In case you lose your Mazda RX-8 key fob again in the future, it will cost you less to get a replacement, and the process will be faster.

Emergency key and key fob - Mazda
Emergency key and key fob – Mazda
Second,

Verify they cut you the emergency key, and that it works on the doors cylinders and trunk – Every key fob comes with an emergency key attached to it. The emergency key can be used to access the car in case the battery is dead.

Verify the emergency key is working smoothly on all cylinders
Verify the emergency key is working smoothly on all cylinders
Uncut emergency key on cutting machine - Automotive locksmith
Uncut emergency key on cutting machine – Automotive locksmith

Sometimes, when locksmiths or dealers program a new replacement key fob, they forget to cut the emergency key as well.

Emergency key after it was cut
Emergency key after it was cut

Make sure they cut you the emergency key and that it works for each door and the trunk to avoid a future lockout situation. It should work smoothly, just like your house key. Don’t be lazy, check it on site.

Emergency key cut - Make sure they cut it for you and check it works
Emergency key cut – Make sure they cut it for you and check it works

 

Finally,

know which battery your Mazda RX-8 key fob has – These key fobs, like all key fobs, are battery operated. Make sure you know the type of battery you need and keep a spare one. (Mazda RX-8 key fob usually use CR-2025 battery)

 

Q: Can I get a Mazda RX-8 key replacement by its VIN?

Mazda RX-8 key replacement by VIN

A: That depends on the year of manufacture of your car and the type of key you had.

The VIN gives dealers or automotive locksmiths the option of accessing the key code on file – i.e., to cut you a replacement key by code which makes the process fast and easy. There are however two things to consider:

Lonsdor coding machine for Mazda RX-8 car keys

  1. If your vehicle is older than 10 years, Mazda dealers will no longer have its key code record, so an automotive locksmith will be your only option to get a replacement key.
  2. For vehicles equipped with a transponder system and/or a remote/intelligent key/fob key, the codes should be available. However, as coding is required, you will have to either tow the car to the dealer, or have an automotive locksmith come and code the key on site.

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Q: Mazda RX-8 key programming – which keys can you program yourself? Which keys require a programming tool? & more

Automotive locksmith programming a Mazda RX-8 key on-site

A: Mazda has different types of keys. Some require programming, and some don’t. All transponder chip keys and/or smart key fobs need to be programmed. This process requires a special programming machine that only an automotive locksmith or the dealer has. There is no need to program non-transponder metal keys.

To make things simple, we divided all Mazda keys into two categories:

  1. No programming needed (Non-transponder keys).
  2. Keys that need to be programmed (Transponder or remote keys). These keys required the expertise of an automotive locksmith or dealer.

 

No programming needed:
Car key cutting machine
Car key cutting machine

Mazda non-transponder keys are metal keys that have no chip in them, so no programming is needed.

Mazda RX-8 has none of this key type – all Mazda RX-8 keys have a chip and need to be programmed.

 

For Mazda RX-8 keys that need to be programmed, you will need an automotive locksmith or the dealer:
Car key coding machine for Mazda key fobs and transponder keys
Car key coding machine for Mazda key fobs and transponder keys

These keys, also known as remote smart keys, intelligent keys or key fobs, and transponder keys, have a security chip. Programming is needed. Also, a special machine is needed to program them. An automotive locksmith or dealer should do it for you. This process must be followed for most models made after 1998.

BGBX1T458SKE11A01, KPU41788.

 

Q: I have a Mazda RX-8 key and would like to get a keyless entry system to unlock all doors as well. Can you tell me which one I should get? Will it need to be programmed and can I program it myself or not?

A: Mazda RX-8 has a few keyless entry system options. For newer car models, the key you have contains a built-in keyless entry system (a remote master key or key fob/smart key). Some need to be programmed by a professional locksmith or dealer and some don’t. Below you will find all the information relevant to the Mazda RX-8 entry system.

 

Keyless entry information for the Mazda RX-8:
Keyless entry information Mazda RX-8
Keyless entry information Mazda RX-8
Mazda RX-8 has two keyless entry remotes. Choose the year of your car:

For year models 2005 to 2010, there is a built-in keyless entry in the remote key fob and transponder flip key.

2004-2005: KPU41805 (Choose Method B)

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Mazda RX-8 key battery – important information: How to replace, size, cost, and more.

Key fob batteries

Mazda RX-8 model has different kinds of keys. If your model uses a key fob, here is some important information you should know about the battery.

 

There are 2 types of keys that are battery operated:

 

Key fob: (like in the picture below)
Mazda RX-8 remote key fob battery replacement information
Mazda RX-8 remote key fob battery replacement information

 

Transponder flip key: (like in the following picture)
Mazda RX-8 flip key battery replacement information
Mazda RX-8 flip key battery replacement information

 

Watch a short video here: how to replace Mazda RX-8 transponder flip key’s battery, type of battery and more:

Battery replacement information video

 

Things to remember when your Mazda RX-8 key fob battery is dead:

First, even if the key fob’s battery is dead, you still can unlock and start your RX-8. You can use the emergency key provided with the key fob to unlock the doors as shown below:

Mazda key fob and emergency key
Mazda key fob and emergency key

 

The key fob on the inside - Battery and emergency key
The key fob on the inside – Battery and emergency key
How to start Mazda RX-8 with a dead key fob?

You can start your Mazda RX-8 by pushing the “Start” button with your key fob. The car’s computer recognizes the chip inside the key fob and authorizes the process.

Push the "start" button with your dead key fob to start the car like in this picture
Push the “start” button with your dead key fob to start the car like in this picture

This way, you will be able to start your vehicle EVEN if the key fob battery is dead.

 

Mazda RX-8 key battery information:

Car key battery replacement variety

Mazda RX-8 key fob and transponder flip key are battery operated. Every two years or so, or when the battery is low, you may need to change the key fob battery. Here is all the information you need.

The type of battery you need is a CR-2025 for BGBX1T458SKE11A01 and a CR-1620 for KPU41788. The average price for these batteries is about $5.

You can order CR-2025 online here and CR-1620 here.

Also, you can find it at Home Depot, Walmart, AutoZone, etc.

 

Here is some general information about the Mazda RX-8 key battery:

Type of battery: CR-2025 lithium

CR-2025 key fob battery replacement
CR-2025 key fob battery replacement

Size: Diameter – 20 mm, height – 2.5 mm

 

Type of battery: CR-1620 lithium

CR-1620 key battery replacement
CR-1620 key battery replacement

Size: Diameter – 16 mm, height – 2.0 mm

Finally, remember that your battery life depends on several factors such as usage, weather conditions, etc. To better protect your Mazda RX-8 key fob and extend its battery life, it may be a good idea to have a key fob cover or a case. You can order a key fob cover here.

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