Starting probs 3s, key to blame? help
 

Hi, I have a 2005 3s sedan and am having issues with starting it. Basically when I turn the key into the "on" position nothing happens (like as if you didnt have the clutch in while trying) and it takes me a good 4-5 turns to the "on" position before the car will finally start up, in which case it starts up just fine as normal. The car has never left me stranded though, it has ALWAYS been reliable on every startup, just its taken a good 4-5 turns to get it to start.

Iv had the car for about 2 months now and when I test drove the car at the dealership the car started right up and I did not notice this problem untill a few days after I had bought it.

Im thinking it has something to do with the transponder in the key not working correctly or something with the ECU or whatever? The car only came with 1 key though. Can the nearest Mazda dealership help fix this?

If there's a problem with the transponder/immobilizer system then when you put the key in the ignition the immobilizer light (red car with a key in it) will flash really quickly. That signifies that an unprogrammed key is in the ignition. If it doesn't flash quickly then that's not the problem.

Does the car turn over when you try to crank it? Have you had the battery and or starter tested? Assuming you have any warranty on it then I'd take it back to the dealer.

As to the keys here's the low down. In order to program a new key in when you only have one the mazda dealer has to plug into your computer and do it manually. If you had two working keys and you were adding a third one then you could program in a new one yourself for free. A new transponder key costs $18.95 shipped/cut from www.onlinemazdaparts.com, but bear in mind the dealer will want to charge you more for it so be armed with knowing how much you could get them for. Also if you're planning on getting a second key/remote combo then I suggest you get a flip key. The flip key/remote actually cost a little less than a regular key and regular remote.... plus it flips! The flip key should run you around $75 cut/shipped (again from onlinemazdaparts). My biggest suggestion is if you get a second key to go ahead and get a third as well. That way if you should ever lose a key then you can just buy another $18 key and program it yourself and eliminate the dealer from the loop.

It sounds to me that it might be an ignition or starter problem. Just take it to the dealer and let them figure it out while you drive a rental. About the key ==> what icspots said.