Can you disable the smart keyless entry on the MX5 RF?

Technical Area Electrics & ICE
2

Hello 

I have a new MX5 RF 1.5 Sport Nav which comes with the smart keyless entry system as standard.

I am concerned about security with the increased reporting on the news of “relay theft”.  I have invested in a Stop Lock Pro and also bought a RFID pouch to stop the key emitting its signal, but find it a bit of a hassle keep getting my keys in and out of the pouch when I’ve got my hands full.

Is it possible to disable this function and just go back to good old “click the button on the fob” when I want to open the doors?  Is this something Mazda can do?  I’ve emailed them and am awaiting a response but was interested to hear peoples thoughts on this on here also.

Kind Regards

Louise

3

Everything you need is in here     https://www.mazda.co.uk/buying-owning/product-features-and-manuals/      Download and get to know your new car features inside out.   

4

Hello. 

I did look through these pages online when I first bought the car but don’t recall anything about shutting off the smart keyless entry system. 

Perhaps I missed it, where exactly does it mention it?

Regards

Louise

1 Like
5

Start at page 3/10 and read on. It looks possible. If it is new I would go to the dealer and ask them confirm it can be done and to do it for you. Alternatively stop worrying about it and just enjoy the car. I have not heard of any MX5s being stolen in the way you mention.    

6

For most people the only time to worry about this would be at home.  Why not just leave the Faraday pouch at home and use it there? Use the key as intended when out and about? 

The issue for most victims is that they put their keys on the hall table, unshielded.  With a signal amplifier it’s then easy for thieves to enter and start the car on the drive while the owners are asleep or watching TV.  

All I can find in the manual on a quick search - it doesn’t sound very convenient. 

3-9

The advanced keyless entry system
functions can be deactivated to prevent
any possible adverse effect on a user
wearing a pacemaker or other medical
device. If the system is deactivated,
you will be unable to start the engine
by carrying the key. Consult an expert
repairer, we recommend an Authorised
Mazda Repairer for details. If the
advanced keyless entry system has been
deactivated, you can start the engine by
following the procedure indicated when
the key battery goes dead.
Refer to Engine Start Function When
Key Battery is Dead on page 4-9 .

4-9

When starting the engine by holding
the transmitter over the push button
start due to a dead key battery or a
malfunctioning key, be careful not
to allow the following, otherwise the
signal from the key will not be received
correctly and the engine may not start.


??? Metal parts of other keys or metal
objects touch the key.

??? Spare keys or keys for other vehicles
equipped with an immobilizer system
touch or come near the key.

??? Devices for electronic purchases, or
security passage touch or come near
the key.

7

Thank you both for your help.  I agree, it does appear its a possibility after all, I must have missed that bit when I initially read the manual. 

Like you say though, wether its convenient or not is another issue. 

I will certainly give some thought to just using the pouch when I’m at home.  Still all new to me this technology so just trying to get used to it all and not leave myself a target. 

She’s precious after all! :slight_smile:

Thank you

8

I use a Faraday pouch at home or when I stay in a hotel (such as a low rise Premier Inn). The rest of the time, I just carry the key in my pocket as I think I’d notice someone waving a laptop around my person trying to capture the key signal.

Also, if you disable the keyless option, you’re more susceptible to remote clone/jamming which typically takes place in car parks !

 

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