Nissan Key Fob Not Working? Here's What Could Be the Problem

September 14, 2023

Is your Nissan key fob not working? Fear not! A faulty fob often results from something simple ‐ like a dead battery. Other times, it may be something a bit more technical. Either way, a key fob not working can be quite a headache! Here are some of the top reasons your Nissan key fob isn't working and what you can do to repair or replace it.-

Top 7 Reasons Your Key Fob Isn't Working

1. The Fob's Battery Is Dead

Key fob not working? Time to check the battery. A dead fob battery is typically the most common problem when your fob isn't working. While key fob batteries last a while, they certainly don't last forever. And even a dying battery can cause interruptions in your key fob's performance.

How to Replace Your Nissan Key Fob Battery

Replace the battery by removing the key from the end of the fob. You can usually do this by pressing and holding a button and pulling the key out of its slot. Place the key between the two pieces of the key fob and gently twist to pry the housing apart. Take the key fob apart, being careful not to let the buttons fall from their positions on the fob. Replace your Nissan key fob battery with the matching battery type, click the housing back together, replace the key, and your fob is ready to go!

2. The Buttons are Faulty or Worn

The buttons on your Nissan key fob can wear down over time, and you may have to press them harder than usual. If this is the case, your key fob may be working fine but need a little extra pressure when you use it.

The key fob's buttons may become faulty by moving out of position. If you recently changed the battery, bumped the fob too hard, dropped it, or it was swung around, the buttons may have moved in their housing and are no longer making proper contact ‐ which means your fob isn't sending any signals to your Nissan to perform a function.

Press each button and listen for a click. The fob should also have a red light that illuminates each time you push a button. If you feel the buttons are faulty or misaligned, take the fob apart as you would to replace the battery and ensure each button is aligned properly in the fob's housing.

3. The Key Fob is Damaged

Key fobs are meant to stand up to some wear and tear, but handling the fob too roughly can cause it to give out on you. Dropping the fob, submerging your car keys in water, or a significant impact can all damage the key fob, causing it not to work. If your Nissan key fob isn't working after a battery change and anything one of these things has happened recently, it may be time to replace your key fob.

4. There's an Issue With the Electrical System in Your Nissan

An issue with your key fob not working may not always be your fob's fault. Since the fob has to communicate with your vehicle's onboard computer to send directions, an electrical system issue within your Nissan may cause the vehicle to become unresponsive ‐ even if the key fob is working fine. If you suspect your Nissan is having an electrical issue, head to your closest Nissan dealership to get professional diagnostics on your vehicle.

5. Your Nissan's Battery Is Dead

The same way a dead key fob battery can cause your fob not to work, a dead car battery can also be a contributing factor. If the battery in your Nissan is too low or dead, there's nothing to control the signals from the fob. That means no unlocked doors, no remote tailgate or remote start (if so equipped), and no setting the alarm. Visit a Nissan dealership near you to have your battery tested and replaced if necessary.

6. Faulty Locks on Your Nissan

An issue with your door locks can prevent the key fob from doing its job. If the doors don't unlock when using your fob, check the locks to see if they're the problem. If you have remote start or remote tailgate options for your Nissan fob, test them to see if they are functioning. Alternatively, try activating the vehicle's alarm by pressing the lock twice on your fob. You should hear a beep or horn sound when the alarm is set.

If these settings work but the lock or unlock buttons won't control the car doors, then it's time to have your Nissan inspected. There may be an issue with the locking mechanisms on the doors, or the onboard computer may be having issues performing the lock/unlock function.

7. You're Using the Wrong Key Fob

If you own two different Nissan vehicles, you will have two different key fobs for each vehicle. And while both vehicles can possess their own qualities, the key fobs can look identical. If you own multiple Nissan vehicles, make sure you are using the correct key fob before running diagnostics, changing batteries, etc.

Replace Your Nissan Key Fob With Nissan Parts and Accessories

A faulty fob is never fun. And figuring out why it's not working can be tricky. If you've checked you're using the correct key fob and you've replaced the battery but you're still having trouble, it may be time for a new fob.

Visit Nissan Parts and Accessories online to find a Genuine Nissan replacement fob that's designed for your vehicle down to every button. Can't wait on ordering a replacement? Visit your local Nissan dealership for the fastest and most direct way to replace your key fob. Our experts can pair your vehicle with the right key fob and program it to your vehicle right on site.