Curiosity got the best of me, and I called a Mazda dealer.

1. The door handles are not interchangeable between passenger and driver side. The way they connect and attach inside is a bit different - this per the parts guy. And he said the handles are also different depending upon whether or not you have power locks. On his screen, he said the list of handles choices is long. They ask buyers for their VIN to ensure the correct handle is sold.

2. So, egg on my face on this one, it turns out the basic Mazda 3 - at least the 2008 model year - that has no keyfob and no power locks DOES have a keyhole on the passenger side front door. This makes no sense to me, but that's the fact.

 

this explains my point exactly!

 

I have not had time to read all of this, but I dont have a speed3 or hatchback, just a M3i 4 door, dont you remember my great pic I learned how to post. very red with the cool wheels.
[align=left] [/align]

 

Apparently not. Sorry, EC. 'Guess I just forgot, or confused you w/somebody else.

 

woooooooooooooooow ollld thread. still funny though

 

My 2009 3 has a passenger key hole

 

Then you must have the base i model w/o power/central locking?

 

rich i found the best quote from this thread.

 

My car has a key hole on the passenger door

 

We KNOW you have a base i model.