Where do I get a key made (that works)?

[Smurfetta]

We just bought a '98 Mazda 626 (standard) and my hubby had a key made. This key, along with a key the previous owner had given us, will open the door but it will not start the car. Do I have to go to a Mazda dealer to get a key made? Can anyone explain to me why this is not working?

Thanks!

Smurfetta

[Cheap-Wrench]

Here in Gatineau, the Mazda dealer offers for 5$ to make a copy of HIS original key and give you the copy. I found often the difference between a good and bad key is how rough the edges are. After a key is cut, the employee is supposed to round the edges with a wire brush wheel, and sometimes they are not taking the time they should to make a good job. Maybe it is a good idea to go back where the key was made and tell them it doesn't work, they might give you another key...

[Smurfetta]

Well, my hubby called the Mazda dealer today and they said that that particular key needs to be made there and it will cost us $100.
Something about the key being computer coded or has a coded chip sensor. What a pain! We only have one key that will start the car, so if we misplace that key we are "up a river with no paddle".

Thanks for the reply.

[Cheap-Wrench]

Would you like me to check with my mazda dealer if he would mail one for you and at what price, I have to go there tomorrow to pick up parts for my 626.

[Smurfetta]

Sorry it took me so long to respond. Thank you for thinking of me.
Well, you could ask about the key, but how can he make a key when he doesn't have a copy of the one I have?
In what city do you live?

Originally Posted by Cheap-Wrench

Would you like me to check with my mazda dealer if he would mail one for you and at what price, I have to go there tomorrow to pick up parts for my 626.

[Cheap-Wrench]

OK, I went there yesterday and asked about the key. They said you have to come in person and show the ownership with vehicule identification number. They have that rule to prevent car theft. What they do is keep in stock every key for every model and they make a copy for you for 5$ canadian. That makes quite a trip from Texas... It's too bad they are so strick about the rules. I also asked them if the ownership can be faxed, and they said it really has to be in person.

[Smurfetta]

I guess that's good that they are so particular about it. Sure wish my dealership had the same price though.

Where are you at in Canada? I'm originally from Michigan. I love Canada!

[keyman1070]

the 98 mazda....I have one.....has a transponder key...no one can make a key for this vehicle that will start it if they do not have access to the vehicle...my suggestion is call you local locksmith.....I am a locksmith of 10 years and we are always cheaper that the dealer..make sure you call them first..seeing how you only have one key and your vehicle requires two keys in order to do onboard programing they will have to use a computer to erase all keys in the cars computer and reprogram new ones.... hope this helps

[Cheap-Wrench]

Originally Posted by Smurfetta

I guess that's good that they are so particular about it. Sure wish my dealership had the same price though.

Where are you at in Canada? I'm originally from Michigan. I love Canada!

I'm from Gatineau, Quebec but very close (20 min.) from Ottawa, Ontario. I do most of my shopping in Ottawa. Canada is allright but I sure would migrate when we get sub zero temps..

[Smurfetta]

Thank you keyman. I'll call around to see what the locksmiths around here have to say.

Subzero temp...well, I think I would go crazy since I've been here in South Texas for 11 years. I do miss the cold weather though. One hundred degrees in October sucks. When they say we are getting a cold front here, that means it will get down to 80...