Terry’s Locksmiths – Nissan Ignition, Key, and Door Lock Expertise

At Terry’s Locksmiths, we pride ourselves on our ability to handle the diverse and complex requirements of Nissan vehicles when it comes to keys, ignitions, and door locks. Over the years, we’ve encountered numerous Nissan models, each presenting its own set of challenges and technical specifications. Our experience spans everything from older models with basic non-transponder keys to modern vehicles equipped with advanced proximity keys and smart systems.

Understanding Nissan Key Systems: From Non-Transponder to Proximity Keys

Nissan vehicles have undergone significant technological changes in their key and ignition systems over the years. Older models typically use non-transponder keys or basic transponder chips, while newer vehicles are equipped with proximity keys that require specialized tools for programming. Here, we’ll explore some common key types and programming techniques used for various Nissan models.

Technical Procedures for Nissan Key Programming and Cutting

1. Older Models: Non-Transponder and Basic Transponder Keys
   For Nissan models manufactured before the mid-2000s, such as the 2002 Nissan 200SX, the key systems are relatively simple, often using non-transponder or basic transponder keys. In the case of an all-keys-lost situation on the 2002 200SX, Seb Winkle utilized a non-remote NSN14 transponder key, cutting it based on a Lishi decoding of the door lock. This model did not require EEPROM or sophisticated programming; rather, a manual programming tool like the T300 was used.

   • Key Tools Used: T300, Lishi pick and decode tools
   • Common Key Types: NSN14, DAT-15.P2 (basic transponder or non-transponder keys)

2. Transition to Remote and Proximity Keys: The Early 2010s
   As Nissan’s technology advanced, vehicles like the 2009 Nissan Cube and 2011 Nissan Navara began to feature remote keys and proximity key fobs. These vehicles often required specialized programming equipment such as Smart Pro, Autel, or VVDI Key Tool Max to program the chip and remote functions. The 2009 Cube, for example, utilized a CWTWBIJ667 flip remote, which required manual programming steps to activate the immobilizer and remote functions separately.

   • Programming Tools: Smart Pro, Autel, VVDI Key Tool Max
   • Key Types: Nissan-R16 2 or 3 Button Remote Keys, ID46 transponder chips

3. Modern Nissan Vehicles: Advanced Proximity Keys and Smart Ignitions
   Newer Nissan models, such as the 2015 Nissan Navara and 2018 Nissan X-Trail, employ proximity keys that require specific procedures for programming due to the encryption and additional security features built into the systems. In these cases, a Lishi tool is often used to decode the door lock, and Smart Pro or Autel tools are employed to program the proximity keys. Some models, like the 2017 Nissan Navara, require voltage stabilization during the programming process to avoid disruptions.

   • Challenges:
     • Some models, particularly those with twist-prox ignitions, need the Smart Pro for programming.
     • For vehicles with complex Body Control Module (BCM) encryption, it may be necessary to remove the dashboard or perform EEPROM tasks to extract programming codes.

4. Special Handling for All-Keys-Lost Situations
   When all keys are lost, it often involves additional steps such as removing the BCM or ECU to read encrypted data and generate a new key. For instance, with the 2014 Nissan Elgrand, Seb Winkle had to pull out the instrument cluster to access the BCM and use a Smart Pro tool for prox key programming. This task could take several hours depending on the complexity and the need for manual pin code calculations or EEPROM work.

Key Tools and Techniques Employed by Terry’s Locksmiths

• Smart Pro: A versatile tool used for programming a wide variety of Nissan keys, particularly for vehicles from 2008 onwards with advanced proximity systems. It’s particularly effective for models like the Nissan Juke and Qashqai.
• Autel: Frequently used for remote programming on models such as the Nissan Cube and Dualis. It is effective for chip programming, though some limitations exist when it comes to remote functions.
• Lishi Pick and Decode Tools: Essential for manually decoding the lock cylinder to cut keys for older models and obtaining the necessary key code for newer vehicles.
• VVDI Key Tool Max: Often used in conjunction with other tools for tasks such as chip cloning, remote generation, and programming aftermarket keys.
• Manual Programming Tools: For non-transponder and older transponder key models, tools like the T300 are sometimes employed for simplicity.

Common Issues and Considerations

1. Voltage Stability During Programming:
   For some Nissan vehicles, maintaining a stable voltage during key programming is essential. Using a battery stabilizer to keep the voltage within the required range can prevent programming failures, as was necessary when programming a slot key for the 2011 Nissan Navara.

2. Limitations of Aftermarket Solutions:
   While aftermarket keys can be a cost-effective solution, certain models such as the 2017 Nissan X-Trail have been known to reject non-genuine proximity keys, requiring a genuine key to be used for programming success. This is due to variations in the security protocols and encryption used in the vehicle’s immobilizer system.

3. Proximity Key Complexities:
   Some proximity keys, particularly those used in modern models like the Nissan Murano and Pathfinder, require specific procedures for the chip and remote to be programmed separately. This means the process can involve using multiple tools and following distinct steps for each function.

4. All-Keys-Lost Scenarios:
   In situations where all keys are lost, programming can become complex, especially for vehicles with encrypted BCMs. This was evident in cases such as the 2010 Nissan Pathfinder, where the dash needed to be removed to access the BCM for pin code calculation and programming.

Conclusion

Terry’s Locksmiths has extensive experience in handling the diverse range of Nissan key and ignition systems, from the straightforward non-transponder keys of older models to the advanced proximity keys and twist ignitions of modern vehicles. Our team is equipped with the necessary tools and technical knowledge to tackle even the most challenging programming tasks, ensuring a seamless experience for our customers. Whether it’s a simple spare key for a Nissan Pulsar or an all-keys-lost situation on a Nissan Elgrand, we deliver reliable solutions to keep you on the road.