By Nissan is a good brand. From my experience, they make one of the most reliable vehicles on the market, but this doesn’t mean that they are free from problems.
In fact, they’re just like every other auto manufacturer. They have issues with their cars from time to time.
Nissan owners are most likely to encounter the “key system errors” message displayed on their screens. This is especially true for the Altima and Sentra. This article will explain in detail the problem and how it can be fixed.
What Does Key System Failure Mean on a Nissan Altima
The “Key System error” message on a Nissan Altima indicates that the system cannot communicate with your Nissan immobilizer. The vehicle has a difficult time recognizing your key fob in most cases.
Nissan Uses Intelligent Key. If this message appears, your Altima will not start in most cases (although it may do so in some). However, you can lock and unlock the car.
Let’s now look at some of the most common causes for a Nissan key system failure.
Nissan Altima Key System Problems
- Bad key fob battery:
Battery failure is the most common cause of Key System Errors.
Nissan key fob batteries are known to fail often, especially if your fob is used frequently.
You can easily replace the battery at any auto parts store or Nisan Dealership.
According to my personal experience, the keyfob battery life is 3-5 years. After that, they will need to be changed.
- Intelligent Nissan Keyfob Malfunction (Needs Reprogramming):
It may be necessary to reprogram your key if you have recently replaced the battery in your key fob but still see Key System Error on your dashboard. Nissan dealerships can easily reprogramme your Nissan Intelligent keyfob.
Nissan Keyfob can malfunction for many reasons, such as software issues or damage to the keyfob if it is dropped. This issue can only be fixed by reprogramming your Intelligent Key System.
How to fix and reset Nissan Altima key system error?
- Replace Keyfob Battery
You can purchase the Nissan Altima recommended keyfob batteries at your local Nissan dealership or auto parts store.
These are fairly inexpensive. You should be able to get a replacement keyfob for between $5-10. Below is a video that shows you how to replace the Altimas keyfob battery.
- Keyfob Reprogramming
You will need to have the key fob programmed if the problem persists. You can do this by bringing your car and key fob to a Nissan dealer and having them reprogram the vehicle for you.
It will cost you between $100 and $200, depending on where in the world you live. But it is well worth it when considering what these items can cost if they are spoiled.
If your key fob still does not work after you have done these fixes, there could be a problem with your vehicle. It could be anything, from a faulty ignition switch to a bad connection between the battery and the car.
But in 99% of cases, “Key System Error” is due to a faulty keyfob or a malfunctioning fob that needs reprogramming.
How long does the Nissan Altima keyfob last?
Keyfob batteries can last up to three years, depending on how often they are used.
My experience has shown that they can last up to 5 years, depending on how you use them. The battery of a key fob will last longer if you don’t use it often.
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