This is in the owner's manual....

 

so if the key has to be in proximity to the ignition, is there a way to get an automatic starter put in and not have to be right next to the car?

 

[B]every car is easy to steal. some ways are just harder than others.

No....every car is NOT easy to steal, dont even get me started on those damn Ferrari's.

 

you can't steal my rx8, i'd kill you dead before you hot out of the parking lot

 

How do the programmed keys work? Is there a master key?

Also does Mazda (local dealer or national) keep a list of the keys? If so, how safe is the list?

 

The key has to be in the ignition to start the vehicle. The car is not equipped with the necessary systems to support key in the pocket entry and drive process. There are no master keys; you need one of the existing keys to program a new key. If you loose all of the keys then you have another problem all together, that requires reprogramming the ECU and an elaborate procedure to recode the keys. Keep your spare keys in a safe place...

 

I don't think the ECU needs to be reprogrammed if you have the key code number.

See page 3-2 of the owner's manual. A new key can be made by Mazda without one of your existing keys as long as you have the number stamped on the "Key Code Number Plate" which you should have got with your car. Keep that number in a safe place and keep a copy if the safety deposit box.

rx8cited

 

If they do try and take it then you could get lucky and the guy floods it!

 

In the case of getting a remote starter installed, I have seen devices capable of sending the ignition key's code directly to the ecu, therefore not requiring the actual key to be there. Programming such a device would still, at one point or another, require the actual key or correct ignition switch sensor output for reference.

 

You could adapt the coil sensor (in the ignition switch combo), but that would defeat the security function to some degree.

 

Huh? Can you explain adapting a coil sensor? Not that I'm planning to do it, just curious.
Thanks,
rx8cited

 

The way the RX-8 detects the key is with a coil sensor in the steering column, behind the ignition cylinder.
You could attach a key body to the coil sensor permanently and then hook a relay up to the CAN connector that is controlled by your alarm.
When you disarm the alarm, the coil would be connected to the CAN buss again and would show the presence of a key so that the remote starter would function.

 

Easiest way to steal a 8 is to put a flyer on the window. Then when the driver goes out to take the paper off, jump in and lock the doors on them. Then continue to mock the owner, until bored.

 

oops

 

I thought our keys have something electronic in them that requires a working key for us to program a blank key ....... is that correct? If so, any idea how that works (not interested in the programming steps which are posted elsewhere, just the technical description)?

rx8cited

 

You show the car a good key so that it knows you are legit and then you program the new one.

The PCM needs to see a known good key first to get into any diagnostic or programming mode. You initiate the programming sequence (a series of ignition cylinder events) with a working key and then introduce the new key which the PCM will examine and note its unique signature.

The actual security component in the key is a bit like those "Pay-at-the-Pump" keychain wands that various gas stations use.

 

Why doens't the steering wheel lock?

 

lol wow all of your ways of stealing the 8 are so elaborate. It's mind numbing. Anyway how about the easiest way to steal your RX-8...Any guesses....guess not. Well here it is. Your front windshield contains your vin number. ANyhow you need to cover this up immediately upon purchasing your RX-8. This is how its done. Go online with that vin number and you can easily and i mean easilt get the owners information of that vehicle. and for $20-60 dollars get a fake ID made. Then take your fake *** ID to a Mazda Dealership. Tell them you lost your key to the car they "Sometimes" ask for proof of ID to see if info matches in computer. and presto change-O the zit faced kid workin at the counter gets you a new key. Take that key to the residence of the owner and drive off with the 8 no tech gadgets needed. If anyone here says it doesn't work lol then you are a freakin moron...Just trust me on it cuz I know from experienced people *hint* *hint* and no not me, I have a conscience...I dont tell either cuz they arent the kind of people you tell on...
Solution!!!!!!! <------ get a business card and slide it down between the dashboard and windshield and cover it up. Mind was colored black to match and if you ever go to car shows all vins on the doors and inside of the car are covered up at all times.
No need for an expensive alarm cuz if ya got the key it ain't gonna do anything

 

also forgot to mention this....if someone wants your car bad enough....trust me they will get your car one way or another. Keep that in mind

 

**** all u guys rx8 r gay

 

Are you suggesting a simple steel headed key will start the car?

 

 

Is this guy a sponsor?

AKA vendor?

 

Uh, no. That key will open the door and that is it. The car won't start.

Sorry "gangsta", but nice try.


Yeah, someone must have hijacked his ID or is using his PC without an adult present.

 

Wrong, all wrong. The key the zit faced kid provided has not been programmed to start the car. Do your research before posting such bunk.

Gomez.