What software do I need to work on Mazda?
Mazda has three types of platforms: Mazda IDS, Mazda MDARS, and MDSFA. Each has its requirements and functions that it can accomplish as outlined below.
Mazda IDS
Tool Requirements
Mazda VCM II (The Ford VCM II / III will not work)
Car Compatibilty
All Vehicles
Service Functions
✅ Key Programming
✅ Diagnostics
✅ Module Programming
Notes:
Mazda IDS comes with MDARS included
MDARS
Tool Requirements
J2534 (3rd Gen) (AEZ3, Cardaq 3, Snap On Pass Thru Pro 4)
Car Compatibilty
▶︎ 2025-present CX-70
▶︎2024-present CX-90
▶︎ 2024-present MX-5
▶︎ 2023-present CX-50
▶︎ 2022-2023 MX-30
▶︎ 2021-2023 CX-9
▶︎ 2021-present CX-5
▶︎ 2020-present CX-30
▶︎ 2019-present Mazda3
Service Functions
✅ Key Programming
✅ Diagnostics
✅ Module Programming
MDSFA
Tool Requirements
J2534 (3rd Gen) (AEZ3, Cardaq 3, Snap On Pass Thru Pro 4)
Car Compatibility
▶︎ 2018 Mazda3
▶︎ 2018-2021 Mazda6
▶︎ 2018-2023 MX-5
▶︎ 2018-2020 CX-5 and CX-9
▶︎ 2018-present Mazda2 and CX-3
Service Functions
✅ Key Programming
✅ Diagnostics (Limited)
✅ Module Programming (Limited, We do know which modules it will do until we connect to the car with the software)
MDSFA
Requirements
J2534 (3rd Gen) (AEZ3, Cardaq 3, Snap On Pass Thru Pro 4)
Car Compatibility
▶︎ 2017 and earlier vehicles
Service Functions
✅ Key Programming
✅ Diagnostics (Limited)
✅ Module Programming (Limited, We do know which modules it will do until we connect to the car with the software)