Nissan ALTIMA 2023 Keys, Doors, and NISSAN Intelligent Key® System 

The 2023 Nissan Altima comes with a full suite of doors, keys, and NISSAN Intelligent technologies that are intended to improve security and convenience. The Altima offers versatility in terms of starting and entering the car thanks to its combination of a keyless entry fob and a conventional physical key. Push-button ignition and keyless entry further simplify driving, and the NISSAN Intelligent Key system makes it simple to lock, unlock, and start the engine without taking the key fob out of your pocket or purse. The 2023 Altima is a unique option in its class thanks to its configurable key fob settings, remote trunk release feature, and child safety locks for the rear doors that give an added degree of security. It also automatically locks at higher speeds.

2023 Nissan Altima Specs, Price, Features and Mileage (Brochure)

KEYS

1. Intelligent Keys (two sets)
2. Mechanical key
3. Key number plate (one plate)

NISSAN INTELLIGENT KEY®

Your vehicle can only be driven with the Intelligent Keys which are registered to your vehicle’s Intelligent Key system components and NISSAN Vehicle Immobilizer System components. Never leave these keys in the vehicle. As many as four Intelligent Keys can be registered and used with one vehicle. The new keys must be registered prior to use with the Intelligent Key system and NISSAN Vehicle Immobilizer System of your vehicle. It is recommended that you visit a NISSAN dealer for this service. Since the registration process requires erasing all memory in the Intelligent Key components when registering new keys, be sure to take all Intelli-gent Keys that you have to the NISSAN dealer. A key number plate is supplied with your keys. Record the key number and keep it in a safe place (such as your wallet), not in the vehicle. If you lose your keys, it is recommended that you visit a NISSAN dealer for duplicates by using the key number. NISSAN does not record key numbers so it is very important to keep track of your key number plate. A key number is only necessary when you have lost all keys and do not have one to duplicate. If you still have a key, it can be duplicated without knowing the key number.

CAUTION
Listed below are conditions or occurrences which will damage the Intelligent Key:

• Do not allow the Intelligent Key, which contains electrical components, to come into contact with water or salt water. This could affect the system’s function.
• Do not drop the Intelligent Key.
• Do not strike the Intelligent Key sharply against another object.
• Do not change or modify the Intelligent Key.
• Wetting may damage the Intelligent Key. If the Intelligent Key gets wet, immediately wipe it until it is completely dry.
• Do not place the Intelligent Key for an extended period in an area where temperatures exceed 140°F (60°C).
• Do not attach the Intelligent Key with a key holder that contains a magnet.
• Do not place the Intelligent Key near equipment that produces a magnetic field, such as a TV, audio equipment, and personal computers.

If an Intelligent Key is lost or stolen, NISSAN recommends erasing the ID code of that Intelligent Key from the vehicle. This may prevent the unauthorized use of the Intelligent Key to operate the vehicle. For information regarding the erasing procedure, it is recommended that you visit a NISSAN dealer.

Mechanical key
The Intelligent Key contains the mechanical key. To remove the mechanical key, release the lock knob on the back of the Intelligent Key. To install the mechanical key, firmly insert it into the Intelligent Key until the lock knob returns to the lock position. Use the mechanical key to lock or unlock the doors.

CAUTION
Always carry the mechanical key installed in the Intelligent Key slot.

NISSAN VEHICLE IMMOBILIZER SYSTEM KEYS
Additional or replacement keys:
If you still have a key, the key number is not necessary when you need extra NISSAN Vehicle Immobilizer System keys. Your existing key can be duplicated without knowing the key number. As many as four NISSAN Vehicle Immobilizer System keys can be used with one vehicle. You should bring all NISSAN Vehicle Immobilizer System keys that you have to the NISSAN dealer for registration. This is because the registration process will erase the memory of all key codes previously registered into the NISSAN Vehicle Immobilizer System. After the registration process, these components will only recognize keys coded into the NISSAN Vehicle Immobilizer System during registration. Any virtual key accessories (if so equipped) will also have to be reregistered. Any key that is not given to the dealer at the time of registration will no longer be able to start your vehicle.

CAUTION
Do not allow the immobilizer system key, which contains an electrical transponder, to come into contact with water or salt water. This could affect the system’s function.

DOORS

When the doors are locked using one of the following methods, the doors cannot be opened using the inside or outside door handles. The doors must be unlocked to open the doors.

WARNING
Always have the doors locked while driving. Along with the use of seat belts, this provides greater safety in the event of an accident by helping to prevent persons from being thrown from the vehicle. This also helps keep children and others from unintentionally opening the doors and will help keep out intruders. Before opening any door, always look for and avoid oncoming traffic. To help avoid the risk of injury or death through the unintended operation of the vehicle and/or its systems, including entrapment in windows and/or inadvertent door lock activation, do not leave children, people who require the assistance of others, and/or pets unattended in your vehicle. Additionally, the temperature inside a closed vehicle on a warm day can quickly become high enough to cause a significant risk of injury or death to people and pets.

LOCKING WITH KEY
To lock the door using the mechanical key, turn the key toward the rear of vehicle 1O. This will only lock the corresponding door and will not activate the security system. To arm, the security system, press the button on the Intelligent Key.” To unlock the corresponding door using the mechanical key, turn the key toward the front of vehicle 2O. This will only unlock the corresponding door and will not disarm the security system. 

LOCKING WITH INSIDE LOCK KNOB
To lock the door without the key, move the inside lock knob to the lock position 1O, then close the door. To unlock the door without the key, move the inside lock knob to the unlock position 2O.

LOCKING WITH POWER DOOR LOCK SWITCH
To lock all the doors without a key, push the door lock switch (driver’s or front passenger’s side) to the lock position 1O. When locking the door this way, be certain not to leave the key inside the vehicle. To unlock all the doors without a key, push the door lock switch (driver’s or front passenger’s side) to unlock position 2O.

Lockout protection
With the Intelligent Key left in the vehicle and any door open, all doors will unlock automatically and a chime will sound after the door is closed. These functions help to prevent the Intelligent Key from being accidentally locked inside the vehicle.

AUTOMATIC DOOR LOCKS
All doors lock automatically when the vehicle speed reaches 15 mph (24 km/h) All doors unlock automatically when the transmission is placed in the P (Park) position or when the ignition switch is placed in the OFF position, depending on the option selected in the “Vehicle Settings” menu.

NOTE:
The Auto Door Unlock feature can be changed using the “Vehicle Settings” menu on the vehicle information display.

CHILD SAFETY REAR DOOR LOCK
Child safety locks help prevent the rear doors from being opened accidentally, especially when small children are in the vehicle. The child safety lock levers are located on the edge of the rear doors. When the lever is in the unlock position 2O, the door can be opened from the outside or the inside. When the lever is in the LOCK position 1O, the door can be opened only from the outside.

WARNING
Radio waves could adversely affect electric medical equipment. Those who use a pacemaker should contact the electric medical equipment manufacturer for possible influences before use. The Intelligent Key transmits radio waves when the buttons are pressed. The FAA advises that radio waves may affect aircraft navigation and communication systems. Do not operate the Intelligent Key while on an airplane. Make sure the buttons are not operated unintentionally when the unit is stored for a flight. The Intelligent Key can operate all the door locks using the remote control function or push the request switch (if so equipped) on the vehicle without taking the key out from a pocket or purse. The operating environment and/or conditions may affect the Intelligent Key operation. Be sure to read the following before using the Intelligent Key.

CAUTION

• Be sure to carry the Intelligent Key with you when operating the vehicle.
• Never leave the Intelligent Key in the vehicle when you leave the vehicle.
• The Intelligent Key is always communicating with the vehicle as it receives radio waves. The Intelligent Key transmits weak radio waves. Environmental conditions may interfere with the operation of the Intelligent Key under the following operating conditions:
  • When operating near a location where strong radio waves are transmitted, such as a TV tower, power station, or broadcasting station.
  • When in possession of wireless equipment, such as a cellular telephone, transceiver, or CB radio.
  • When the Intelligent Key is in contact with or covered by metallic materials.
  • When any type of radio wave remote control is used nearby.
  • When the Intelligent Key is placed near an electric appliance such as a personal computer.
  • When the vehicle is parked near a parking meter.

In such cases, correct the operating conditions before using the Intelligent Key function or use the mechanical key. Although the life of the battery varies depending on the operating conditions, the battery’s life is approximately two years. If the battery is discharged, replace it with a new one. When the Intelligent Key battery is low, an indicator illuminates the vehicle information display. Since the Intelligent Key is continuously receiving radio waves, if the key is left near equipment that transmits strong radio waves, such as signals from a TV and personal computer, the battery life may become shorter. As many as four Intelligent Keys can be registered and used with one vehicle. For information about the purchase and use of additional Intelligent Keys, it is recommended that you visit a NISSAN dealer.

CAUTION
Listed below are conditions or occurrences which will damage the Intelligent Key:

• Do not allow the Intelligent Key, which contains electrical components, to come into contact with water or salt water. This could affect the system’s function.
• Do not drop the Intelligent Key.
• Do not strike the Intelligent Key sharply against another object.
• Do not change or modify the Intelligent Key.
• Wetting may damage the Intelligent Key. If the Intelligent Key gets wet, immediately wipe it until it is completely dry.

If an Intelligent Key is lost or stolen, NISSAN recommends erasing the ID code of that Intelligent Key from the vehicle. This may prevent the unauthorized use of the Intelligent Key to operate the vehicle. For information regarding the erasing procedure, it is recommended that you visit a NISSAN dealer.

OPERATING RANGE
The Intelligent Key functions can only be used when the Intelligent Key is within the specified operating range from the request switch (if so equipped) 1O. When the Intelligent Key battery is discharged or strong radio waves are present near the operating location, the Intelligent Key system’s operating range becomes narrower, and the Intelligent Key may not function properly. The operating range is within 31.50 in (80 cm) from each request switch (if so equipped) 1O. If the Intelligent Key is too close to the door glass, handle or rear bumper, the request switches (if so equipped) may not function. When the Intelligent Key is within the operating range, it is possible for anyone, even someone who does not carry the Intelligent Key, to push the request switch (if so equipped) to lock/unlock the doors.

DOOR LOCKS/UNLOCK PRECAUTION
Do not push the door handle request switch (if so equipped) with the Intelligent Key held in your hand as illustrated. The close distance to the door handle will cause the Intelligent Key system to have difficulty recognizing that the Intelligent Key is outside the vehicle. After locking with the door handle request switch (if so equipped), verify the doors are securely locked by testing them. To prevent the Intelligent Key from being left inside the vehicle, make sure you carry the Intelligent Key with you and then lock the doors. Do not pull the door handle before pushing the door handle request switch (if so equipped). The door will be unlocked but will not open. Release the door handle once and pull it again to open the door.

NISSAN INTELLIGENT KEY® OPERATION
You can lock or unlock the doors and trunk lid without taking the Intelligent Key out of your pocket or bag. When you carry the Intelligent Key with you, you can lock or unlock all doors and trunk lid by pushing the door handle request switch (if so equipped) within the range of operation.

Locking doors

1. Move the shift lever to the P (Park) position, place the ignition switch in the LOCK position, and make sure you carry the Intelligent Key with you.
2. Close all doors.
   
3. Push any door handle request switch (if so equipped) 1O while carrying the Intelligent Key with you.
4. All doors and the trunk will lock.
5. The hazard warning lights flash twice and the outside chime sounds twice.

NOTE:

• Request switches (if so equipped) for all doors and trunks can be deactivated when the Ext. 
• Doors lock with the door handle request switch (if so equipped) while the ignition switch is not in the LOCK position.
• Doors lock by pushing the driver’s side door handle request switch (if so equipped) while any door is open. However, the corresponding door locks with the mechanical key even if any door is open. Doors do not lock with the door handle request switch (if so equipped) with the Intelligent Key inside the vehicle and a beep sounds to warn you. However, when an Intelligent Key is inside the vehicle, doors can be locked with another Intelligent Key.

WARNING
After locking the doors using the request switch (if so equipped), make sure that the doors have been securely locked by operating the door handles. Failure to follow these instructions may result in inadvertently unlocking the doors, which may decrease the safety and security of your vehicle.

CAUTION
When locking the doors using the request switch (if so equipped), make sure to have the Intelligent Key in your possession before operating the request switch (if so equipped) to prevent the Intelligent Key from being left in the vehicle. The request switch (if so equipped) is operational only when the Intelligent Key has been detected by the Intelligent Key system.

Lockout protection
To prevent the Intelligent Key from being accidentally locked in the vehicle, lockout protection is equipped with the Intelligent Key. When the driver’s side door is open, the doors are locked and then the Intelligent Key is put inside the vehicle and all the doors are closed; the lock will automatically unlock, and the door chime sounds.

NOTE:
The doors may not lock when the Intelligent Key is in the same hand that is operating the request switch (if so equipped) to lock the door. Put the Intelligent Key in a purse, pocket or your other hand.

CAUTION
The lockout protection may not function under the following conditions:

• When the Intelligent Key is placed on top of the instrument panel.
• When the Intelligent Key is placed on top of the rear parcel shelf.
• When the Intelligent Key is placed inside the glove box or a storage bin. When the Intelligent Key is placed inside the door pockets.
• When the Intelligent Key is placed on or under the spare tire area.
• When the Intelligent Key is placed inside or near metallic materials.

Unlocking doors

1. Carry the Intelligent Key.
2. Push the door handle request switch (if so equipped) 1O.
3. The hazard warning lights flash once and the outside chime sounds once.
4. Push the door handle request switch (if so equipped) 1O again within 60 seconds to unlock all doors and trunk. The outside chime sounds again.

If a door handle is pulled while unlocking the doors, that door may not be unlocked. Returning the door handle to its original position will unlock the door. If the door does not unlock after returning the door handle, push the door handle request switch (if so equipped) to unlock the door. All doors will be locked automatically unless one of the following operations is performed within one minute after pushing the request switch (if so equipped):

• Opening any door.
• Pushing the ignition switch.

Using the interior lights The interior lights illuminate for a period of time when a door is unlocked.

The lights can be turned off without waiting by performing one of the following operations:

• Placing the ignition switch in the ON position.
• Locking the doors with the Intelligent Key.
• Switching the interior light switch to the OFF position.
• Switching the Auto Room Lamp feature to the OFF position in the “Vehicle Settings” menu on the vehicle information display. 

Opening the trunk lid
To open the trunk lid, perform the following:

1. Push the trunk opener switch OA (if so equipped) while carrying the Intelligent Key with you.
2. The trunk will unlatch. A chime will sound four times.
3. Raise the trunk lid to open the trunk.

Lockout protection
To prevent the Intelligent Key from being accidentally locked in the trunk, lockout protection is equipped with the Intelligent Key system. When all doors are locked and the trunk lid is closed with the Intelligent Key inside the trunk, a chime will sound and the trunk will open.

HOW TO USE THE REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY FUNCTION

1. (remote engine start) button
2.  (lock) button
3. (unlock) button
4. (trunk) button
5. (panic) button

The remote keyless entry function can operate all door locks using the remote keyless function of Intelligent Key. The remote keyless function can operate at a distance of 33 ft (10 m) away from the vehicle. The operating distance depends upon the conditions around the vehicle.
The remote keyless entry function will not function under the following conditions:

• When the Intelligent Key is not within the operational range.
• When the doors or the trunk are open or not closed securely.
• When the Intelligent Key battery is discharged.

CAUTION
When locking the doors using the Intelligent Key, be sure not to leave the key in the vehicle.

Locking doors

1. Place the ignition switch in the LOCK position.
2. Close all doors.
3. Press the Key button on the Intelligent
4. The hazard indicator lights flash twice and the horn beeps once.
5. All doors will be locked.

WARNING
After locking the doors using the Intelligent Key, be sure that the doors have been securely locked by operating the door handles. Failure to follow these instructions may result in inadvertently unlocking the doors, which may decrease the safety and security of your vehicle.

Unlocking doors

1. Press the button on the Intelligent Key.
2. The hazard indicator lights flash once and the driver’s door will unlock.
3. Press the button again within 1 minute to unlock all doors and trunks.

NOTE:
The Selective Unlock feature can be changed using the “Vehicle Settings” menu on the vehicle information display. 

All doors will be locked automatically unless one of the following operations is performed within 1 minute after pressing the button:

• Opening any doors.
• Pushing the ignition switch.

Using the interior lights
The interior lights illuminate for a period of time when a door is unlocked.

The lights can be turned off without waiting by performing one of the following operations:-

• Placing the ignition switch in the ON position.
• Locking the doors with the Intelligent Key. Switching the interior light switch to the OFF position.
• Switching the Auto Room Lamp feature to the OFF position in the “Vehicle Settings” menu on the vehicle information display. 
  Releasing the trunk lid
  Press the button for longer than 0.5 seconds to open the trunk lid. The trunk release button will not operate when the ignition switch is placed in the ON position.
  Using the panic alarm If you are near your vehicle and feel threatened, you may activate the panic alarm to call attention by pressing and holding the
  button on the Intelligent Key for longer than 0.5 seconds.
  The panic alarm and headlights will stay on for a period of time.
  The panic alarm stops when:
• It has run for a period of time.
•  Any button is pressed on the Intelligent Key.
• The request switch (if so equipped) on the driver or passenger door is pushed and the Intelligent Key is in range of the door handle.

Answer back horn/Horn beeps on
lock feature If desired, the answerback horn or horn beeps on lock feature can be deactivated using the Intelligent Key. When it is deactivated and the button is pressed, the hazard indicator lights flash twice. When the button is pressed, neither the hazard indicator lights nor the horn operates.

NOTE:
If you can change the Answer Back Horn or Horn Beeps on Lock feature with the Intelligent Key, the vehicle information display screen will show the current mode after the ignition switch has been cycled from the OFF to the ON position. The vehicle information display screen can also be used to change the answerback horn or horn beeps on lock mode.

To deactivate:
Press and hold the buttons for at least 4 seconds. The hazard indicator lights will flash three times to confirm that the answerback horn or horn beeps on the lock feature has been deactivated.

To activate:
Press and hold the buttons for at least 4 seconds once more. The hazard indicator lights will flash once and the horn will sound once to confirm that the answerback horn or horn beeps on the lock feature has been reactivated.

Deactivating the answerback horn or horn beeps on the lock feature does not silence the horn if the alarm is triggered.

Intelligent Key button operation light
The light blinks only when you press any button on the Intelligent Key. The light illumination only signifies that the key fob has transmitted a signal. You may look and/or listen to verify that the vehicle has performed the intended operation. If the light does not blink, your battery may be too weak to communicate to the vehicle. If this occurs, the battery may need to be replaced. 

WARNING SIGNALS
To help prevent the vehicle from moving unexpectedly by erroneous operation of the Intelligent Key or to help prevent the vehicle from being stolen, a chime or buzzer sounds from inside and outside the vehicle, and a warning is displayed in the instrument panel. When a chime or beep sounds or a warning is displayed, be sure to check the vehicle and the Intelligent Key.

TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE

Verify the location of all Intelligent Keys that are programmed for the vehicle. If another Intelligent Key is in range or inside the vehicle, the vehicle system may respond differently than expected.

Symptom		Possible Cause	Remedy
When stopping the engine	The “Shift to Park” warning appears in the display and the inside warning chime sounds continuous.	The shift lever is not in the P (Park) position.	Move the shift lever to the P (Park) position.
When opening the driver’s door to get out of the vehicle	The “Door/Trunk Open” warning appears on the display.	The ignition switch is in the ACC position.	Place the ignition switch in the OFF position.
When closing the door after getting out of the vehicle	The “No Key Detected” warning ap- appears in the display, the outside chime sounds three times, and the inside warning chime sounds for approximately 3 seconds.	The ignition switch is in the ACC or ON position.	Place the ignition switch in the OFF position.
	The “Shift to Park” warning appears on the display.	The ignition switch is in the ACC position and the shift lever is not in the P (Park) position.	Move the shift lever to the P (Park) position and place the ignition switch in the OFF position.
	The Rear Door Alert warning message appears on the display, the horn sounds three times twice, or a Check Rear Seat for All Articles warning appears on the display.	The Rear Door Alert is activated.	Check the back seat for all articles, and press the OK button to clear the Rear Door Alert warning message.
When closing the door with the inside lock knob turned to LOCK	The outside chime sounds for approximately 3 seconds and all the doors unlock.	The Intelligent Key is inside the vehicle.	Carry the Intelligent Key with you.
When pushing the door handle the quest switch (if so equipped) or the  button on the Intelligent Key to lock the door	The outside chime sounds for approximately 2 seconds.	The Intelligent Key is inside the vehicle.	Carry the Intelligent Key with you.

 

Symptom		Possible Cause	Remedy
When pushing the ignition switch to start the engine	The “Key Battery Low” indicator appears on the display.	The battery charge is low.	Replace the battery with a new one. For additional information, see “Battery replacement” (P. 8-23).
	The “Key ID Incorrect” warning appears in the display, the outside chime sounds three times, and the inside warning chime sounds for approximately 3 seconds.	The Intelligent Key is not in the vehicle.	Carry the Intelligent Key with you.
When pressing the ignition switch	The “Key System Error: See Owner’s Manual” warning appears on the dis-play.	It warns of a malfunction with the Intelligent Key system.	It is recommended that you visit a NISSAN dealer.

FAQ