Losing or replacing an Infiniti key fob can be a frustrating experience, often leading to the assumption that an expensive trip to the dealership is your only option. Whether your old fob has stopped working or you’ve purchased a new one, the thought of scheduling an appointment and paying high service fees is daunting.
However, for many Infiniti models, you can program a new key fob yourself in just a few minutes with a specific sequence of actions. This process, while requiring precision, is surprisingly straightforward and doesn’t require any special tools. This guide will provide clear, beginner-friendly instructions on how to program an infiniti key fob, empowering you to save time and money.
Programming your Infiniti key fob may initially seem like a complex task, but with the right steps, it’s an achievable and inexpensive solution. By following this guide, you’ll gain the confidence to handle the process on your own without the hassle of visiting a dealership. Whether you’ve misplaced your old key fob or simply want to activate a spare, this straightforward method will have your new key fob ready for use in no time.
Gather Tools and Materials
Before you begin programming your Infiniti key fob, it’s essential to have all the necessary tools and materials ready. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Your new Infiniti key fob: Ensure it is compatible with your vehicle’s make and model.
- Your vehicle’s original key or key fob (if available): This might be required for certain programming methods.
- Your Infiniti vehicle: The programming process will take place inside the car, so ensure you have access to it.
- Access to your car’s Owner’s Manual: While optional, the manual can provide vehicle-specific instructions or additional guidance if needed.
Having everything prepared ahead of time will make the programming process smoother and more efficient.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Program an Infiniti Key Fob
Step 1: Gather Your Keys and Get Inside the Car
Before you begin the programming sequence, you need to be prepared. Gather all of the key fobs for your vehicle, including any existing working ones and the new one you wish to program. This process will reprogram all fobs, so any existing ones not included in this sequence will no longer work. Get inside the car and ensure all doors are closed. Then, use the power lock button on the driver’s side door to lock all the doors. This initial step prepares the vehicle’s computer, known as the Body Control Module (BCM), to enter programming mode.
Step 2: Begin the Key Insertion Sequence
This is where the process requires precision. You will need your physical master key, not just the fob. Take the key and insert it into the ignition, then remove it completely. You must perform this action six times in quick succession, within a 10-second window. Do not turn the key; simply insert it all the way and pull it out. The goal is to do this smoothly and quickly. After the sixth insertion, leave the key in the ignition. This rapid sequence is the signal to your Infiniti’s computer that you are initiating a service command.
Step 3: Enter Programming Mode
If you have completed the previous step correctly, your vehicle will respond by flashing its hazard lights twice. This is the confirmation that you have successfully entered programming mode. If the lights do not flash, it means the sequence was not performed correctly or quickly enough. You will need to remove the key, unlock and relock the doors, and start the sequence over from Step 2. It can sometimes take a couple of tries to get the timing just right, so be patient and focus on performing the six insertions within the 10-second timeframe.
Step 4: Turn the Key to the “ON” Position
With the key still in the ignition from the previous step and the hazard lights having flashed, you can now proceed. Turn the key to the “ON” position. This is the position where the car’s electronics and dashboard lights come on, but the engine does not start. Do not crank the engine. Turning the key to “ON” fully activates the programming mode within the BCM, making it ready to receive the signal from the new key fob that you are about to program. This is a critical step in the sequence.
Step 5: Program the First Fob
Immediately after turning the key to the “ON” position, you must program your first key fob. This should be the new fob you are adding. Press any button on the fob, typically the “Lock” or “Unlock” button, just once. The car should respond by flashing its hazard lights once more. This single flash confirms that the fob’s unique code has been successfully accepted and stored by the vehicle’s computer. If the lights do not flash, try pressing the button again. This step pairs the fob to your vehicle.
Step 6: Program Any Additional Fobs
If you have other key fobs to program, including your original ones, now is the time to do it. You must program all your fobs during this single session. To program the next fob, first use the power lock button on the driver’s door to unlock and then immediately re-lock all the doors. After re-locking, press any button on the second fob. The hazard lights should flash once to confirm it has been programmed. Repeat this unlock/lock/press sequence for any other fobs you have.
Step 7: Exit Programming Mode
Once you have successfully programmed all of your key fobs, you need to exit the programming mode. To do this, simply turn the key in the ignition back to the “OFF” position and remove it. The car’s computer will now exit the special mode, and the hazard lights will likely flash again to signal the end of the process. This finalizes the programming, and the vehicle’s computer will now only recognize the fobs that were just paired during this session.
Step 8: Test All Your Key Fobs
The final step is to confirm that the programming was successful. Take each of your key fobs, step outside the vehicle, and test its functions. Try the lock, unlock, and panic buttons on every fob that you just programmed. Ensure each one works as expected. Also, test the intelligent key functions by trying to start the car with each fob. If a fob does not work, it’s possible it was missed in the sequence or its battery is dead. You may need to repeat the entire process if a fob was not correctly registered.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Program a Used Infiniti Key Fob?
Generally, you cannot program a used Infiniti key fob that was previously programmed to another vehicle using this DIY method. The fobs are designed to be written to a vehicle’s BCM once. While specialized automotive locksmiths may have tools to “re-virginize” a used fob, it’s not something that can be done at home. For DIY programming, it is always recommended to start with a brand new, un-programmed key fob.
Why Is This DIY Programming Method Not Working for Me?
This method works for many, but not all, Infiniti models, particularly some older or newer ones. If it’s not working, check these things:
- Timing: The 10-second window for key insertion is critical. Try again, focusing on speed and consistency.
- Battery: Ensure the battery in the new key fob is fresh and installed correctly.
- Compatibility: Verify that the key fob you purchased is the correct part number and frequency for your specific Infiniti model and year.
Do I Need to Reprogram My Old Keys After Programming a New One?
Yes. When you initiate the programming mode, the vehicle’s computer erases all previously stored key fob codes. You must program all the fobs you intend to use during one single session. Any existing, working fobs that are not included in the new programming sequence will no longer be recognized by your car.
What Is the Difference Between Key Fob Programming and Key Cutting?
Key fob programming syncs the electronic remote (for locking/unlocking doors and push-button start) with your car’s computer. Key cutting refers to physically cutting the metal blade of the emergency key inside the fob so that it can manually turn the locks in your door or ignition. This DIY guide is only for the electronic programming portion.
When Do I Need to Go to a Dealership or Locksmith?
You will need to see a professional if your vehicle model does not support this DIY method, which is common for most models made after around 2013. You also need a professional if you have lost all your keys, as a master key is required to initiate this process. Finally, for models with advanced immobilizer systems, specialized diagnostic tools are required to program the transponder chip for the ignition.
Conclusion
Taking on a task like programming your own car key can feel complex, but as you’ve seen, the process can be surprisingly simple. With a little precision and patience, you can successfully sync a new key fob to your car without the need for an expensive dealership visit. The key lies in following the sequence exactly, particularly the rapid insertion and removal of the master key. Now that you have a clear guide on how to program an infiniti key fob, you can confidently handle this common automotive need yourself, saving both time and money in the process.