Key Fob Not Working high urgency

2024 Nissan Murano Key Fob Not Working: Quick Fixes, Causes, and Repair Options

If your 2024 Nissan Murano key fob suddenly won’t lock/unlock or the vehicle won’t recognize it for push-button start, the cause is often simple—like a weak coin-cell battery or signal interference. This guide covers safe, practical steps you can try first, plus realistic repair and replacement options for the US market.

Understanding Your Situation

A non-working key fob usually means the car isn’t receiving a strong, valid signal from the Intelligent Key. Common reasons include a depleted fob battery, the fob being out of range or blocked by interference, a dirty/damaged fob, or (less commonly) a vehicle-side issue such as a weak 12V battery or a receiver/antenna problem.

🚀 Immediate Steps to Take

  1. Try the backup start method: Hold the key fob directly against (or very close to) the START/STOP button and press the brake, then press START. If the car starts, the fob battery is likely weak.
  2. Replace the key fob battery with a new, name-brand coin cell (match the type printed in your fob, commonly CR2032). Ensure correct polarity and clean, dry contacts before closing the fob.
  3. Rule out interference and range issues: Move away from other electronics, remove the fob from bags with metal objects, try the spare key fob (if available), and try locking/unlocking from a few feet away.

Your Options

Replace the key fob coin-cell battery (DIY)

Cost: $5-$15 Time: Same day

Open the Intelligent Key, replace the coin-cell battery with the correct type, and confirm lock/unlock and push-button start operation.

âś“ Pros:
  • Lowest cost and fastest fix
  • Often resolves weak-signal and intermittent issues
âś— Cons:
  • Wrong battery type or poor contact can cause continued problems
  • Does not fix water damage or internal fob failure

Use the spare key fob and diagnose the original

Cost: $0-$15 Time: Same day

Test the spare fob to confirm whether the issue is the fob or the vehicle. If the spare works normally, the original fob likely needs a battery, repair, or replacement.

âś“ Pros:
  • Quick way to isolate the problem
  • Helps avoid unnecessary towing or parts replacement
âś— Cons:
  • Not possible if you only have one fob
  • A spare with an old battery may also be weak

Professional key fob testing and replacement (locksmith)

Cost: $180-$450 Time: Same day / 1-3 days

An automotive locksmith can test fob output, confirm the correct fob type, cut/program a replacement Intelligent Key (if supported), and verify vehicle recognition.

âś“ Pros:
  • Often cheaper than dealership with mobile service options
  • Can confirm whether the fob is transmitting and whether programming is needed
âś— Cons:
  • Availability varies by region and model-year support
  • Aftermarket fobs can be inconsistent in quality if not sourced carefully

Dealership diagnosis and OEM key replacement/programming

Cost: $300-$650 Time: Same day / 1-3 days

A Nissan dealer can scan for body/immobilizer-related faults, verify receiver issues, and supply/program an OEM Intelligent Key to your Murano.

âś“ Pros:
  • Correct OEM parts and factory programming procedures
  • Best path if there are vehicle-side faults or warranty coverage
âś— Cons:
  • Usually the highest cost option
  • May require appointment and proof of ownership

Check/restore the vehicle 12V battery and connections

Cost: $0-$250 Time: Same day

If the Murano won’t respond to any fob and shows low-power symptoms, have the 12V battery tested and terminals checked/cleaned. A weak 12V battery can cause erratic keyless entry and start recognition.

âś“ Pros:
  • Fixes a common root cause of multiple electrical symptoms
  • Improves reliability beyond the key fob issue
âś— Cons:
  • Not the cause if the car otherwise has strong electrical power
  • Battery replacement cost varies by brand and installation

⚠️ What to Avoid

✕ Don’t repeatedly press the START/STOP button without the brake or for long periods—unnecessary attempts can drain the 12V battery further.

✕ Don’t use no-name coin-cell batteries or mix old/new batteries; weak cells can cause intermittent failures that look like programming issues.

✕ Don’t pry the fob open with excessive force or metal tools that can damage the case, circuit board, or battery contacts.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Assuming key is broken
  • Not checking battery first
  • Calling tow truck immediately
  • Replacing when reprogramming needed

Frequently Asked Questions

My 2024 Murano says “Key Not Detected.” Will it still start?

Often, yes—if the fob battery is weak. Try holding the fob directly against (or very close to) the START/STOP button while pressing the brake, then press START. If it starts this way, replace the fob battery as soon as possible.

The fob locks/unlocks, but the car won’t start. What does that mean?

It can indicate a weak fob battery, interference inside the cabin, or a vehicle-side issue (like a weak 12V battery or a problem with the keyless/immobilizer system). Try the backup start method, try the spare fob, and if the problem persists, have the vehicle scanned/diagnosed.

Could my phone or other devices block the key fob signal?

Yes. Strong RF sources, crowded parking areas, or the fob being buried in a bag with metal objects can reduce signal strength. Try moving the fob to an open area, away from electronics, and test again.

Do I need to reprogram the key fob after changing the battery?

Typically, no. A battery change should not erase programming. If the fob still doesn’t work after a correct battery replacement, the fob may be damaged or the vehicle may have a separate issue that needs diagnosis.

How much does a replacement key fob cost for a 2024 Nissan Murano in the US?

Typical totals range from about $180 to $650 depending on OEM vs aftermarket, programming needs, and whether you use a locksmith or dealership. Pricing varies by region and whether you still have a working key.

⏱️ Urgency Note: If you only have one working key fob, address the issue promptly—once all keys are lost or nonfunctional, replacement and programming are usually more expensive and may require towing and additional security verification.

Related Information

Need Detailed Information?

Get vehicle-specific key fob compatibility, part numbers, and a complete price comparison for your 2024 Nissan Murano.

View Murano Key Fob Guide →

Last updated: 2026-01-04