How Do I Start My Infiniti Without Key Fob?

It’s a common scenario: you’re ready to go, but your INFINITI key fob is nowhere to be found, or perhaps the battery is dead. This can be frustrating, especially when you need to get going quickly. Fortunately, gaining access to and starting your INFINITI without a key fob is entirely possible thanks to several built-in methods. This guide will provide you with comprehensive, step-by-step instructions on how to start your Infiniti without key fob, ensuring you’re not stranded, and highlighting the solutions available to you.

Understanding the options for starting your INFINITI when your key fob is out of commission is crucial for every owner. Whether you’ve misplaced your fob, are dealing with a dead battery, or are facing another key fob malfunction, knowing these techniques will empower you to handle the situation effectively. Let’s explore the methods you can use to get back on the road, and how INFINITI of South Bay is here to assist you with any key-related issues.

Understanding the INFINITI Key Fob System

The INFINITI Intelligent Key system is designed for convenience, offering features like remote locking/unlocking, push-button start, and more, all without needing a traditional key. This system relies on wireless communication between the key fob and your vehicle. However, this technology isn’t without its potential drawbacks. Common issues include dead batteries, signal interference, or simply misplacing the fob.

A dead key fob battery is perhaps the most frequent issue. Like any electronic device, the battery in your key fob has a limited lifespan and will eventually need replacing. When the battery dies, the fob can no longer transmit the signal needed to unlock or start your INFINITI through the usual remote functions. Another issue is misplacement; the small size of the key fob makes it easy to lose or leave behind. Understanding these common problems prepares you to utilize alternative starting methods and seek assistance when necessary.

Starting Your INFINITI Without a Key Fob: Multiple Methods

Even without a functioning key fob, INFINITI vehicles are equipped with backup systems to ensure you can still start and operate your car. Here are three primary methods you can use:

Method 1: Using the Mechanical Key

Every INFINITI key fob contains a hidden mechanical key, designed for just such emergencies. This key provides a direct, physical way to unlock your car and, in conjunction with other methods, start the engine. Here’s how to use it:

1. Access the Mechanical Key: Locate the release mechanism on your key fob. This is typically a small button or slide. Depending on your model, you may need to slide a lever on the key ring end or press a small release button on the back of the fob. Once released, the mechanical key can be pulled out from the fob.

2. Unlock the Driver’s Side Door: Insert the mechanical key into the door lock cylinder located on the driver’s side door handle. Turn the key as you would a traditional car key to unlock the door. This will grant you access to your INFINITI even with a completely dead key fob.

3. Proceed to Start the Engine: Unlocking the door with the mechanical key is just the first step. You’ll need to use one of the following methods to actually start the engine, as the mechanical key only provides physical access to the vehicle.

Method 2: Utilizing the Key Fob Port

Some INFINITI models are equipped with a key fob port, a designated slot where you can insert your key fob to bypass a dead battery and start the vehicle. This is particularly useful in situations where the key fob battery is the only issue.

1. Locate the Key Fob Port: The location of the key fob port can vary depending on your INFINITI model. Typically, it’s found on the steering column or the lower part of the dashboard, often on the left side beneath the steering wheel. Consult your owner’s manual for the precise location in your vehicle.

2. Insert the Key Fob: Once you’ve located the port, insert your INFINITI key fob into the slot. Ensure it’s inserted correctly; usually, the key ring end should be facing outwards. Some ports may require the buttons to face up or towards the door – again, your owner’s manual will provide specific guidance.

3. Start the Engine: With the key fob inserted into the port, press the brake pedal and then push the Start/Stop button as you normally would to start your INFINITI. The port allows the vehicle to recognize the key fob despite the dead battery, drawing enough power to authenticate the key and start the engine.

Method 3: Touching the Start/Stop Button with the Key Fob

For many newer INFINITI models, there’s an even simpler method to start your vehicle with a dead key fob battery: by directly touching the Start/Stop button with the fob itself. This method utilizes the RFID chip within the key fob, which can be read even with a dead battery when in very close proximity to the sensor around the Start/Stop button.

1. Position the Key Fob: Hold your INFINITI key fob close to the Start/Stop ignition button. The ideal positioning is to touch the button directly with the key fob.

2. Listen for the Recognition Chime: Press the Start/Stop button with the key fob. In many cases, you will hear a chime or see an indicator light on the dashboard. This signal indicates that the vehicle has recognized the presence of the key fob.

3. Start the Engine Immediately: Within about ten seconds of receiving the chime or visual confirmation, press the brake pedal and push the Start/Stop button again (while still potentially touching it with the key fob, or just having it very close). This should initiate the engine start sequence, and your INFINITI should start normally.

These methods provide reliable ways to start your INFINITI even when your key fob is not functioning in its usual wireless capacity. Familiarizing yourself with these techniques can save you time and stress in unexpected situations.

Leveraging Technology: INFINITI InTouch and Roadside Assistance

Beyond the mechanical and direct-contact methods, INFINITI offers technological solutions that can be advantageous when you’re facing key fob issues, or even if you’ve completely lost your keys.

INFINITI InTouch Services

INFINITI InTouch Services is a suite of connected car technologies available on many recent INFINITI models. Through the InTouch app on your smartphone, you can control various vehicle functions remotely, adding another layer of convenience and security.

1. Remote Door Lock/Unlock: If you’ve locked your keys inside your INFINITI or need to grant access to someone remotely, the InTouch app allows you to lock and unlock your doors from anywhere with a cellular or Wi-Fi connection.

2. Remote Engine Start/Stop: InTouch also provides the ability to remotely start or stop your engine. This is particularly useful for warming up or cooling down your vehicle before you get in. While it might not directly solve a ‘no key fob’ start issue, it showcases the technological integration offered by INFINITI and the potential for future remote start solutions in keyless situations.

While InTouch may not directly start your car without any key presence in an emergency scenario where the fob is lost and not just dead, it offers substantial convenience and control in many key-related situations, and can be a valuable tool for managing your vehicle.

INFINITI Roadside Assistance

For more complex situations, such as a lost key fob or a situation where none of the above methods work, INFINITI provides dedicated Roadside Assistance services.

1. 24/7 Support: INFINITI Roadside Assistance is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Help is just a phone call away, no matter the time of day or night.

2. Professional Assistance: INFINITI’s roadside assistance can dispatch trained professionals to your location. They can assist with various issues, including helping you gain entry to your vehicle, jump-starting a dead battery, or arranging for towing to the nearest INFINITI dealership, like INFINITI of South Bay, if necessary.

Key Fob Issues? INFINITI of South Bay is Here to Help

Dealing with key fob problems can be frustrating, but INFINITI of South Bay in Torrance, CA, is committed to providing comprehensive support to get you back on your way with minimal disruption.

Key Fob Replacement

Losing or severely damaging your key fob necessitates a replacement. INFINITI of South Bay offers a streamlined key fob replacement service.

1. Efficient Replacement Process: Our expert service team can quickly program a new genuine INFINITI key fob to be perfectly compatible with your vehicle. We understand the urgency and strive to make the process as fast and hassle-free as possible.

2. Genuine INFINITI Parts: We exclusively use authentic INFINITI replacement parts, ensuring the highest quality and seamless integration with your vehicle’s systems.

3. Competitive Pricing: We offer competitive and transparent pricing on key fob replacements and programming services. Contact our service department for a quote.

Emergency Assistance

Beyond key fob replacement, INFINITI of South Bay provides broader emergency assistance.

1. Comprehensive Support: Whether you need help with key fob issues, battery problems, or any other vehicle emergency, our team is ready to assist.

2. Towing and Service: If the issue requires more than on-the-spot assistance, we can arrange towing services to bring your INFINITI to our state-of-the-art service center for expert diagnosis and repair.

Get Professional Assistance from INFINITI of South Bay

Knowing how to start your Infiniti without key fob is valuable knowledge for any INFINITI owner. From utilizing the mechanical key to leveraging technology and professional assistance, you have multiple options when facing key fob challenges.

At INFINITI of South Bay, located in Torrance, CA, we are dedicated to ensuring your INFINITI ownership experience is smooth and worry-free. For key fob replacements, emergency support, or to explore the latest INFINITI models like the 2024 INFINITI QX50, 2024 INFINITI QX60, and 2024 INFINITI QX80, visit or contact us today. Our expert team is here to provide the solutions and support you need to stay confidently on the road.