This modification is suitable for all Mazda 3's and MPS3's;
A HOW TO thread with a step by step with picture log.
Can this become a sticky…one only hopes
This is for all of the people that detest the continual annoying 'key reminder' alarm.
This is a step by step PERMANENT cure; it will only revert when you reverse the mod. It does not affect any other function or features of the car.
1. Remove entire steering wheel column casing,
a) Remove the two screws in the lower casing near the steering wheel.
b) On top to the steering casing pull up the soft rubber cover by pulling up in one of the corners. (Picture 1)
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c) To remove the top casing press the small catches with a screwdriver and pull up till it clicks out. Gently pull the rest of the cover until it comes off, put it aside. (Picture 2)
(steps C,D and E are not needed if you have smaller hands)
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d) Remove key light by rocking back and forth until it clicks out.
e) Pull lower casing down over key barrel.
2. Unplug Ignition loom (big bunch of wires in a white/grey/black plug on top) from rear of Ignition barrel by pressing grey keeper clip and pushing down. (Picture 3)
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3. Remove small black plastic cover on rear of plug. (USE a jewellers screwdriver) (Picture 4)
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4. Identify the thin red wire with black trace and remove it from the plug shell using small screwdriver to release retaining clip in the plug face (Picture 5)
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5. Remove wire from plug shell and insulate it using electrical tape. (Picture 6)
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6. Re-plug the loom and place black cover back on. Test by putting key in ignition and open door….ahh so quiet now! (Picture 7)
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7. Reassemble steering wheel column casing.
The whole procedure took me no more than 20 minutes and only needed 2 screwdrivers; one medium Philips head and one very small flat screwdriver and some electrical tape/heat shrink to insulate, a light is also helpful. I can now do it in about 5min so it's really easy.
This mod has been carried out on my car over 2years ago and on about 12 other cars with out any problems.
(sticky please mods)
have fun
Andy