Hi, I have a 2007 Mazda 3 that I drive daily. This am the key won't turn at all in the ignition, and there is a flashing red light with a key on it on the dashboard. A friend said there must be a "kill switch" somewhere, but I'm not seeing anything anywhere. Anybody know how I get this apparent ignition lock to unlock? Please help! Thanks soooo much, JW

 

Hmmm, at least on my 2009 there is always a red flashing key icon on the dash whenever the ignition is off. Said another way, I doubt your issue has anything to do with a phantom kill switch.

What may be the issue is the steering wheel interlock. If that's the case, simply turning the steering wheel back and forth while attempting to turn the key usually frees the interlock and allows you to start the car. FWIW, this problem exists pretty much with all cars these days.

 

Do what shipo said. Try turning the steering wheel a little, and then turn the ignition. As for the blinking red light, all mazda 3's have those. It's the engine immobilizer. It's an anti theft device. It's not a car alarm system that makes noise if the car is broken into. It's there so you can't hot wire the car, I believe.

 

You guys were right. Thank you so so much!

 

Yea, the immobilizer is so the engine will not start without the smartchip inside your key.