Using the Manual Key When Your Fob Doesn't Work

If your Nissan Altima key fob battery is dead or the fob itself is damaged, you can still start your car using the manual key blade hidden inside the fob. The metal key is stored in a slot on the back or side of your fob — you pull or slide it out, then use it to unlock the driver's door and start the engine from inside the car.

This is a backup system, not the primary way to start the car. Once you unlock the door with the manual key, the steering wheel lock will still be engaged. You'll need to turn the key in the ignition cylinder to release it and start the engine, just as you would in any car with a traditional key ignition.

Key Takeaways

  • The manual key blade slides or pops out from the back or side of your Nissan Altima key fob.
  • Use the manual key to unlock the driver's door when your fob battery is dead.
  • Once inside, insert the key into the ignition cylinder on the left side of the steering column and turn it to start the engine.
  • The steering wheel will be locked until you turn the key in the ignition — this is normal and a security feature.
  • If the key won't turn in the ignition, the steering wheel lock may be engaged; turn the steering wheel slightly left and right while turning the key.

Locating and Removing the Manual Key From Your Fob

On most Nissan Altima fobs made in the last 15 years, the manual key blade is stored on the back of the fob. Look for a small slot or seam running along the edge. Press your fingernail or a small flat tool into the slot and slide the key blade out — it should come free with light pressure. On some older models, the key may be on the side of the fob instead; check both the back and sides if the back slot doesn't yield anything.

The blade itself is small and silver, about two inches long. Once removed, you'll have a traditional car key that looks like keys from the 1990s and early 2000s. Don't force it — if it's stuck, you may have the wrong slot. Set the fob aside somewhere safe; you'll want to replace the battery or repair the fob later, but it won't help you right now.

Unlocking the Driver's Door

Insert the manual key into the driver's door lock. On Nissan Altimas, the lock cylinder is usually on the door handle itself, though on some models it may be a separate keyhole above or below the handle. Turn the key counterclockwise to unlock the door. If the lock feels stiff, try turning the key slowly and steadily rather than forcing it — the lock may just need a moment to respond.

Once the door is unlocked, you can open it normally and get inside. The interior door lock button should now be in the unlocked position. If you have passengers or cargo in the car, the other doors will still be locked; you'll need to unlock them from inside using the lock buttons on the driver's door panel, or use the manual key on each lock if needed.

Starting the Engine From the Ignition Cylinder

Sit in the driver's seat and locate the ignition cylinder on the left side of the steering column, just below the steering wheel. This is where you insert the manual key to start the car. The cylinder has a keyhole that faces slightly downward and to the right. Insert the key straight in — it should slide in smoothly without resistance.

Once the key is fully inserted, turn it clockwise. You'll feel it move through several positions: first to the "Accessory" position (where the dashboard lights come on), then to the "On" position (where the engine management system powers up), and finally to the "Start" position (where the starter motor engages). Hold the key in the Start position until the engine catches — usually one to two seconds. Release the key and it will spring back to the On position once the engine is running.

What to Do If the Steering Wheel Is Locked

When you first get in the car, the steering wheel may feel locked in place. This is a security feature that engages when the car is off. You cannot turn the steering wheel, and you may feel resistance when you try to turn the key in the ignition. This is normal and does not mean anything is broken.

To release the lock, turn the steering wheel gently to the left and right — just a few inches in each direction — while simultaneously turning the key in the ignition. The lock will release as soon as the key reaches the On position. Once released, the steering wheel will move freely and you can steer normally. If the wheel remains locked after the engine starts, stop the car and try again; the lock should disengage within a few seconds of the engine running.

Replacing Your Key Fob Battery After You've Started the Car

Once you've driven to a safe location, you should replace the battery in your key fob so you can use the remote unlock and lock functions again. Most Nissan Altima fobs use a CR2032 or CR2025 coin-cell battery, which costs between two and five dollars at any pharmacy, grocery store, or auto parts retailer.

To replace the battery, remove the manual key blade as you did before, then look for a small slot or seam on the back of the fob. Gently pry the fob open — it usually splits into two halves. The battery will be visible inside, held in a small metal clip. Note which side is facing up (the positive side is usually marked with a plus sign), then remove the old battery and slide the new one in with the same orientation. Close the fob halves back together and test the buttons. If the fob still doesn't work after a new battery, the fob itself may be damaged and will need to be replaced or repaired by a Nissan dealer.

When to Contact a Nissan Dealer

If you cannot remove the manual key from the fob, or if the key won't turn in the ignition cylinder even after you've released the steering wheel lock, contact a Nissan dealer or a may have access to locksmith. A stuck or broken key in the ignition is not safe to drive with, and forcing it may cause further damage. The dealer can extract the key, inspect the ignition cylinder, and replace it if necessary.

If your key fob is physically cracked, wet, or otherwise damaged beyond a straightforward battery replacement, the dealer can order a replacement fob and program it to your car. This usually takes one to three business days and costs between 200 and 400 dollars depending on the model year and whether you need one or two fobs. Some dealers offer loaner fobs while yours is being repaired.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if the manual key won't come out of the fob?

The key may be stuck due to corrosion or debris in the slot. Try gently wiggling it side to side as you pull, or use a small flat tool like a butter knife to explore even pressure along the slot. If it still won't budge, do not force it — contact a Nissan dealer or locksmith to avoid breaking the key inside the fob.

Can I start the car if the battery is completely dead?

Yes. The manual key will unlock the door and turn the ignition cylinder regardless of battery state. However, if the car's 12-volt battery is completely dead, the starter motor won't have power to crank the engine. You may hear clicking sounds but the engine won't turn over. In that case, you'll need a jump-start or a tow.

Is it bad to use the manual key regularly instead of the fob?

The manual key works fine for regular use, but it's less convenient than the fob and puts more wear on the ignition cylinder over time. If your fob is working, use it. If the fob is broken, using the manual key is safe and won't damage the car, but you should repair or replace the fob when you can.

Why won't the key turn all the way to start?

The steering wheel lock is the most common reason. Turn the wheel left and right while turning the key. If that doesn't work, the ignition cylinder may be worn or damaged, and you should have a dealer inspect it. Do not force the key — forcing can break it inside the cylinder.