Lost your Nissan Murano key fob or need to program a replacement? Programming a new key fob for your Nissan Murano can be done at home, potentially saving you time and money compared to dealership services. This guide provides a clear, step-by-step process to program your Nissan Murano key fob yourself.
Understanding Your Nissan Murano Key System
Before starting, it’s helpful to understand the type of key system your Nissan Murano has. Nissan Muranos often come equipped with an intelligent key system, also known as Nissan Intelligent Key or simply “Intellikey,” offering keyless entry and ignition. You may also have a valet key, which is designed for parking attendants and may not have all the functions of the primary key fob. Regardless of the specific type, the programming procedure outlined below generally applies to Nissan Murano key fobs.
Step-by-Step Guide to Program Your Nissan Murano Key Fob
Follow these instructions carefully to program your Nissan Murano key fob. It’s crucial to perform each step accurately and within the given timeframes for successful programming.
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Initial Setup: Door Locking. Begin by ensuring all doors of your Nissan Murano are completely closed and locked. Use the driver’s side power lock/unlock switch to lock all doors. This sets the system to the correct starting point for programming.
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Ignition Key Cycling: Entering Programming Mode. This is the most critical step and often where users encounter difficulties. Insert your Nissan Murano key into the ignition cylinder and then remove it completely. Repeat this insert and remove action at least six times, but no more than ten times, within a ten-second period. It’s important to withdraw the key entirely from the ignition cylinder each time. If you perform this step successfully, your Nissan Murano’s Hazard lamps will flash. This flash is your confirmation that the system has entered programming mode. If the hazard lamps do not flash, you need to repeat this step, paying close attention to the timing and ensuring the key is fully removed and inserted each time. Speed is key here – aim for a consistent, moderately fast pace.
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Accessory Mode: Ready for Remote Programming. Once the hazard lamps have flashed, immediately insert the key back into the ignition cylinder. Turn the key to the “ACC” (Accessory) position. This powers up the car’s accessory systems without starting the engine and prepares the vehicle to learn the new key fob signal.
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Programming the Remote: Lock Button Activation. Within five seconds of turning the key to the ACC position, locate the “lock” button on the new keyless remote you are programming. Press and release the “lock” button one time only. After pressing the button, observe your Nissan Murano’s Hazard lamps again. They should flash to confirm that the vehicle has successfully recognized and programmed the new key fob. Avoid pressing the button multiple times as this can disrupt the programming sequence.
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Programming Additional Remotes (If Applicable). If you have additional key fobs to program, including original remotes or other new ones, you can program them at this time. First, use the driver’s side power lock/unlock switch to unlock all doors and then immediately lock them again. Within five seconds of locking the doors, take the next keyless remote you wish to program and press ANY button on that remote (lock, unlock, trunk, or panic). The Hazard lamps should flash to confirm programming of this additional remote. Repeat this step for each remaining key fob you need to program.
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Exiting Programming Mode: Final Steps. Once you have programmed all desired key fobs, turn the ignition key to the “OFF” position. Remove the key from the ignition cylinder. To finalize the process and exit programming mode, unlock the doors using the driver’s side power lock/unlock switch and then open the driver’s side door.
Troubleshooting: Hazard Lights Not Flashing?
The most common issue during Nissan Murano key fob programming is the hazard lights failing to flash in Step 2. This indicates that the system has not entered programming mode. Here are some troubleshooting tips:
- Timing is Crucial: The speed of key insertion and removal in Step 2 is critical. If you are too slow or too fast, the system may not recognize the sequence. Practice the motion and try to find a rhythm that is moderately quick but consistent.
- Full Key Removal: Ensure that you are fully removing the key from the ignition cylinder each time. A partial removal might not register as a complete cycle.
- Consistent Motion: Try to maintain a consistent motion and speed throughout the six to ten key cycles.
- Retry and Be Patient: It may take a few attempts to get the timing just right. Don’t get discouraged if it doesn’t work on the first try. Retry the entire procedure from Step 1, focusing on Step 2.
Important Notes for Successful Key Fob Programming
- Have All Remotes Ready: Before you begin the programming process, make sure you have all the key fobs you intend to program with you. You need to program all remotes you want to work with your vehicle in a single programming session.
- Follow Instructions Precisely: Each step is important, and the timing in certain steps is crucial. Read through the instructions completely before starting and follow each step carefully.
- Check Your Owner’s Manual: While this guide is intended to be comprehensive, your Nissan Murano owner’s manual may have specific instructions or additional tips for key fob programming. Consult your manual for any model-specific details.
- Professional Assistance: If you are unable to program your key fob after several attempts, or if you encounter any issues not covered in this guide, it may be best to seek professional assistance. Contact a qualified locksmith specializing in automotive key programming or your local Nissan dealership.
By following these steps carefully, you should be able to successfully program your Nissan Murano key fob and regain full remote access to your vehicle.
