Do you have a question about the Mazda Remote Start System and is the answer not in the manual?
Initiate engine start using the remote control transmitter by pressing the START button twice.
Conditions that prevent remote start or shut down the engine for safety and security.
Steps to enter the vehicle safely after remote start activation and disengage the system.
Set cabin temperature controls before exiting to precondition the interior via remote start.
Leave the vehicle running securely while unattended, keeping keys with you.
Temporarily disables remote start for vehicle servicing or valet use.
Details on how normal vehicle functions operate or are affected during remote start.
Activate the car find feature by pressing and holding the START button on the remote.
Instructions for replacing the 3-volt lithium batteries in the remote control.
Initiate engine start using the remote control transmitter by pressing the START button twice.
Conditions that prevent remote start or shut down the engine for safety and security.
Steps to enter the vehicle safely after remote start activation and disengage the system.
Set cabin temperature controls before exiting to precondition the interior via remote start.
Leave the vehicle running securely while unattended, keeping keys with you.
Temporarily disables remote start for vehicle servicing or valet use.
Details on how normal vehicle functions operate or are affected during remote start.
Activate the car find feature by pressing and holding the START button on the remote.
Instructions for replacing the 3-volt lithium batteries in the remote control.
This document is an owner's manual for a Mazda Remote Start System, specifically designed for the Mazda CX-7 and featuring PowerCode Technology™. It provides detailed instructions on how to use and maintain the system, which is a convenience accessory that complements the original factory remote keyless entry system.
The primary function of the remote start system is to allow the user to start their vehicle remotely, enabling pre-heating or pre-cooling of the vehicle's interior without physically entering it. This system is activated by pressing the START button on the remote control transmitter twice within 3 seconds. Before starting, the system performs a series of safety checks, and if all parameters are correct, the engine will start within 5 seconds. The system includes a 10-minute timer, after which the vehicle will automatically shut down if not operated. To stop the system before the 10-minute cycle, the user can press and hold the START button for 2 seconds.
The remote start system incorporates several safety features. For instance, it will fail to start or shut down the engine during operation if the brake pedal is pressed before the ignition is turned on, if the ignition key is already in the ignition, or if the vehicle's hood is opened. As a safety precaution, the vehicle will also shut off if left unattended for 10 minutes.
The remote control transmitter, although having only one button, performs six functions. When the vehicle is parked and not running, the transmitter can activate the car find feature or the remote start feature. When the vehicle is running via the remote start system, the transmitter can be used to shut down the engine. If the vehicle is running using the vehicle key, the transmitter can activate the "Quick-Stop" feature or activate/deactivate the system's service/valet mode.
The "Quick-Stop" feature is designed for situations where the user needs to make a short stop and wants to keep the vehicle running (for heating or cooling) while maintaining vehicle security and keeping their keys. To engage this feature, the user must stop the vehicle, place the transmission in PARK, and with their foot off the brake pedal, press the START button on the remote control. The parking lights will turn on, indicating the vehicle is running via remote start. The user can then turn off the ignition, remove the key (for retractable keys), exit the vehicle, and lock the doors using the key. To disengage, the user enters the vehicle, inserts the key into the ignition (for retractable keys) and turns it to the ON position, then presses the brake pedal.
The manual also describes how to enter the vehicle while it is running via remote start. The user presses the START button once to unlock the driver's door, then presses it again within 3 seconds to unlock all doors. After entering the vehicle without pressing the brake pedal, the user inserts the key into the ignition (for retractable keys) and turns it to the ON position. Finally, pressing the brake pedal disengages the remote start, and the vehicle operates normally.
The system includes a "Service/Valet Mode" which temporarily disables the remote start function. This mode is useful when the vehicle is being serviced or when a valet service is in use, to prevent unexpected engine starts. To engage this mode, the user turns the ignition to the ON position, presses and holds the brake pedal, and presses the START button on the remote control transmitter three times. The system will flash the parking lights and beep the horn three times to confirm activation. To disengage, the same procedure is followed, but the system will beep the horn once.
The remote start system also supports normal vehicle functions. When the vehicle is running via remote start, the windshield wipers are powered up, so it's recommended to turn them off when parking to prevent damage from ice or snow. Power windows are operational from inside the vehicle. The A/C and heater functions will operate according to the settings chosen before exiting the vehicle. The rear defroster will not operate by setting it when parking but will if physically turned on while the vehicle is running via remote start. The radio also operates during remote start.
In cases where the vehicle stalls or fails to start, the system will pause for 5 seconds and then attempt to start the vehicle up to four more times (a total of five attempts). If the vehicle does not start after the fifth attempt, the system aborts the start process.
A "Car Find" function is also available when the remote start system is not activated. To use this, the user presses and holds the START button on the remote control transmitter for 2 seconds. The system will flash the parking lights and beep the horn six times. This can be repeated by pressing and holding the button again.
Maintenance features include instructions for changing the remote control batteries. The system uses two 3-volt lithium batteries (CR-1220), which typically last about three years. A decrease in operating range or distance indicates weakening batteries. To replace them, the user carefully pries the remote control halves apart, removes the circuit board, slides out the white plastic battery holder, replaces the old batteries with new ones (observing the "+" sign orientation), and snaps the halves back together.
The manual also mentions a "Transmitter Programming Button" located in the driver's kick panel. This button is used to enter program mode and synchronize new transmitters with the remote start system. The system can support up to 8 transmitters. Instructions for programming new transmitters are included with replacement parts (Part Number: 0000-8F-Z02).
The remote start system has an average range of 247 meters (270 yards), though this can be reduced by radio frequency interference from sources like cell-phone towers, television signals, or military signals, and by weakening transmitter battery strength over time.
Important warnings are provided throughout the manual. Users are cautioned against remote starting a vehicle in an enclosed environment due to the risk of carbon monoxide build-up, which can be harmful or fatal. Leaving children or animals unattended in a vehicle while using the remote start function is also deemed dangerous, as it could lead to injury or death, particularly with active power windows or other controls. When placing the vehicle in service, users are advised to engage the service/valet mode to disable the remote start function and inform service personnel about the system.
| Installation | Professional installation recommended |
|---|---|
| Range | Up to 300 feet |
| Start Method | Key fob |
| Confirmation | Audible confirmation when the engine starts |
| Run Time | Up to 15 minutes |
| Smartphone App | Not available |