In most Nissan models equipped with Intelligent Key, you can start the engine from inside the car using a push-button start, and many trims also offer remote start from the fob. The exact steps depend on your model year and trim, so consult your owner's manual for model-specific instructions.
Starting from inside the car: push-button start
To start the engine when the fob is inside the vehicle, use the push-button start with the brake pedal firmly pressed. This is the most common method on recent Nissan models.
- Sit in the driver's seat with the Intelligent Key (fob) detected by the car.
- Fully depress the brake pedal.
- Press the Start/Stop button once to start the engine.
- If the engine does not start, verify the fob is inside the car, the battery in the fob isn’t exhausted, and the vehicle is in Park with the parking brake engaged.
- To stop the engine, press the Start/Stop button again while in Park or as instructed by your manual.
These steps cover the typical push-button start experience across many Nissan models. Some variants may require a specific sequence or a brief hold, so always check your model’s manual for any nuances.
Remote start from outside the vehicle
Many newer Nissan models offer remote start via the Intelligent Key, allowing you to start the engine before you get in. The exact sequence depends on your model year and trim.
Two common remote-start patterns
Most remote-start setups fall into one of a couple of patterns. If your vehicle supports remote start, use the sequence described in your manual. Common patterns include the following:
- Ensure all doors are closed, the transmission is in Park, and the parking brake is engaged.
- With the fob outside the vehicle, initiate remote start using the prescribed fob sequence (often involving a quick action with the Lock button or a dedicated remote-start step). If you’re unsure, refer to your owner’s manual for the exact sequence.
- Once the engine starts remotely, you can enter the vehicle, buckle up, and depress the brake to resume driving if required by your system.
- To stop the engine remotely, use the same remote-start method or the Stop function described in your manual.
Note that remote start is not available on all trims or markets, and it may be disabled by certain conditions (doors open, vehicle not in Park, or security restrictions). Always verify feature availability and steps for your specific car.
What to do if the key fob battery is dead
If the fob battery is dead, you still have options, but the exact procedure depends on your model year and trim. These tips help you regain access and start the car safely.
Emergency/start options when the fob is dead
- Keep a spare battery or another working fob handy to restore full functionality.
- Some Nissan models allow emergency start by placing the fob near a designated area on or around the Start/Stop button or center console. Check your manual for the exact location.
- If emergency start isn’t available or you can’t locate the procedure, you may be able to unlock the door with the mechanical key stored in the fob and arrange replacement or assistance to regain electronic access and starting capability.
If you can’t start the car after trying these steps, contact roadside assistance or your local Nissan dealer for guidance. Replacing the fob battery is often the quickest fix.
Safety notes and model variations
Nissan’s Intelligent Key and remote-start features vary by market, model, and year. Some base models may lack remote start entirely, while higher trims or regional versions support it with specific requirements (doors closed, climate control status, etc.). Always refer to your owner’s manual for the exact steps and limitations of your vehicle.
Summary
For most Nissan drivers, starting with the key fob means using the push-button start inside the car with the fob detected, or using remote start if your model supports it. If in doubt, verify the exact procedure in your owner’s manual or contact a Nissan dealer to confirm features and steps for your specific model year and trim.