Is your 2014 Nissan Altima key fob not working as reliably as it used to? You might be facing a common issue: a dead or dying key fob battery. Fortunately, replacing the battery in your Nissan Altima key fob is a straightforward process you can easily handle yourself, saving you time and a trip to the dealership. This guide will walk you through each step to get your key fob working like new again. While this guide focuses on the 2014 Nissan Altima, the procedure is also applicable to Nissan and INFINITI models from similar years that use a similar key fob design.
Many Nissan and INFINITI vehicles utilize keyless entry systems similar to the Altima’s. If you drive one of the following models, this guide may also prove helpful:
Nissan
- Versa
- Maxima
- Juke
- Rogue
- Murano
- Xterra
- Pathfinder
- Sentra
- Cube
- Armada
- Leaf
- Quest
- Frontier
INFINITI
- 370Z
- GT-R
- Titan
- G25
- G37
- M35
- M37
Before we begin the replacement process, let’s gather the necessary components.
Parts and Tools Needed
Replacing your 2014 Nissan Altima Key Fob Battery requires minimal parts and tools:
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Replacement Battery: You’ll need a single 3-volt coin cell battery, specifically the CR2032 model. This is a very common battery type, often used in watches and small electronics. You can find CR2032 batteries at most drugstores, hardware stores, and online retailers. Brands like Panasonic, Sony, Energizer, Maxell, and Duracell all offer this battery type. To ensure optimal performance, consider checking your Nissan Altima owner’s manual for the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) battery recommendation. For example, your 2014 Altima might have originally come with a Panasonic CR2032.
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Mini Flathead Screwdriver: A small flathead screwdriver is essential for carefully opening the key fob casing. Eyeglass repair screwdrivers are perfectly sized for this task.
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Microfiber Cloth (Optional but Recommended): To prevent scratches on both the key fob’s delicate internal components and its plastic exterior, a thin microfiber cloth to cover the screwdriver tip is highly recommended.
Alt text: Close-up of a mini flathead screwdriver positioned to open a Nissan key fob, illustrating the tool needed for key fob battery replacement.
Preparation Steps
Prior to starting the battery replacement, a little preparation will make the process smoother:
- Gather Your Tools and Battery: Ensure you have the CR2032 battery, mini screwdriver, and microfiber cloth readily available.
- Detach the Key Fob: Remove your Nissan Altima key fob from your keyring to allow for easier handling and prevent accidental damage to other keys.
- Locate Your Emergency Key: Familiarize yourself with the emergency ignition key. Every Nissan Altima key fob includes a hidden mechanical key designed to unlock your car door should the key fob battery fail. Your car door handle has a keyhole, usually concealed on the underside, for emergency access. Knowing how to access this key is crucial before you begin.
Step-by-Step 2014 Nissan Altima Key Fob Battery Replacement
Now, let’s proceed with replacing the battery. Follow these steps carefully for a successful 2014 Nissan Altima key fob battery replacement:
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Position the Key Fob: Place the key fob on a clean, flat surface with the Nissan logo or buttons facing downwards.
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Remove the Emergency Key: Locate the small release tab on the key fob. This tab is usually a small slider. Push and hold the release tab towards the outer edge of the key fob. While holding the tab, gently pull the bottom edge of the key fob downwards. The emergency metal ignition key should slide out. Set the emergency key aside in a safe place to avoid misplacing it.
Alt text: Hands demonstrating the removal of the emergency key from a Nissan Altima key fob by sliding the release tab and pulling out the key.
- Open the Key Fob Casing: With the buttons now facing upwards and the emergency key removed, examine the slot where the key was housed. You will notice small notches or seams along the edge of the fob, typically where the two plastic halves join. This is where you’ll insert the flathead screwdriver. If using a microfiber cloth, wrap it around the tip of your flathead screwdriver to protect the plastic. Carefully insert the screwdriver tip into one of the notches. Gently twist or pry to separate the two halves of the key fob casing. If one notch is too tight, try the other. Slowly work your way around the seam until the top half of the fob can be completely removed.
Alt text: Image showing a mini screwdriver being used to carefully pry open the two halves of a Nissan Altima key fob for battery access.
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Replace the Old Battery: Once the top half of the key fob is removed, the CR2032 battery will be visible. Note the orientation of the battery – usually, the positive (+) side faces upwards. Use the tip of your screwdriver to gently pry the old battery out of its housing. Be careful not to scratch any of the surrounding electronic components. Dispose of the old battery responsibly. Install the new CR2032 battery, ensuring the positive (+) side is facing upwards, matching the original orientation. Push the new battery firmly into place until it is secure.
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Reassemble the Key Fob: Carefully align the two halves of the key fob casing. Press them firmly together until they snap back into place, ensuring a flush fit along all edges. Finally, slide the emergency metal ignition key back into its slot until you hear or feel it click securely into its locked position.
Extending Your Key Fob Battery Life
While CR2032 batteries are designed to last, certain factors can affect their lifespan. Extreme temperatures, excessive use of key fob buttons, and even storing your key fob too close to electronic devices that emit strong electromagnetic fields could potentially drain the battery faster. To maximize the life of your 2014 Nissan Altima key fob battery, avoid leaving your key fob in direct sunlight or freezing temperatures for extended periods.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have successfully replaced the battery in your 2014 Nissan Altima key fob. This simple DIY task can save you money and keep you on the road. If you encounter any difficulties or prefer professional assistance, the team at Rolls Auto Sales is always ready to help. For more helpful car care tips and to explore our extensive inventory of quality pre-owned vehicles, visit our website or stop by our dealership. We proudly serve the Philadelphia and South Jersey areas and are committed to providing excellent service and customer satisfaction. Check out our used vehicle specials and contact us to schedule a test drive today!
