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Damaged Key Fob for a 2024 Nissan Murano (US): What to Do and Replacement Options

A damaged key fob can leave your 2024 Nissan Murano hard to unlock, unable to remote-start (if equipped), or unable to start at all. Physical impact, water exposure, or a cracked case can also cause intermittent issues that get worse over time. The good news: many problems can be stabilized quickly, and you have multiple replacement paths in the US market.

Understanding Your Situation

The key fob’s internal circuit board, battery contacts, or buttons can fail after drops, crushing, or water intrusion. Even if the fob still works sometimes, corrosion or cracked solder joints can cause sudden no-start/no-unlock situations.

🚀 Immediate Steps to Take

  1. Try a fresh CR2032 battery (correct polarity) and test the fob from close range; if the fob case is cracked, hold it firmly together while testing.
  2. If the fob is wet: remove the battery immediately, gently dry the exterior, and let it air-dry thoroughly before reinstalling a new battery (do not heat with a hair dryer or microwave).
  3. Use your backup key/fob if available and schedule service or a locksmith visit; if you have only one working key, prioritize replacement before it fails completely.

Your Options

Replace the key fob at a Nissan dealership (OEM fob + programming)

Cost: $250-$600 Time: Same day / 1-3 days

The dealer supplies a genuine Nissan Intelligent Key (fob) matched to your Murano and programs it to the vehicle. They can also verify whether the issue is the fob, battery contacts, or a vehicle-side antenna/receiver concern.

✓ Pros:
  • Highest compatibility and correct frequency for your VIN/trim
  • Dealer can confirm the root cause and update/verify programming
✗ Cons:
  • Usually the most expensive option
  • May require appointment and proof of ownership; fob may need to be ordered

Automotive locksmith replacement (new fob + mobile programming)

Cost: $180-$450 Time: Same day

A licensed automotive locksmith provides a compatible fob (often aftermarket or refurbished OEM) and programs it on-site. Many can cut/provide the emergency key insert if needed.

✓ Pros:
  • Often faster and less expensive than a dealer
  • Mobile service can come to your home/work if the car can’t be driven
✗ Cons:
  • Quality varies by provider and fob brand
  • Some locksmiths may not support every proximity/feature set on newer models

Repair the existing fob (case swap, button pad, battery contacts, or board-level repair)

Cost: $20-$180 Time: Same day / 1-3 days

If the fob is physically broken but the electronics still function, you may be able to transfer the internal board into a new shell, replace worn button pads, or have a specialist clean corrosion and repair broken solder joints.

✓ Pros:
  • Can be the lowest-cost fix if the board is still good
  • Often keeps the original fob identity, reducing programming needs
✗ Cons:
  • Not always possible after heavy water damage or severe impact
  • DIY repairs can damage the circuit board or compromise waterproofing

Buy a replacement fob online and have it programmed locally

Cost: $120-$450 Time: 2-7 days

You purchase a fob (OEM or aftermarket) from an online seller, then pay a dealer or locksmith to program it to your Murano. This can work well if you match the correct part numbers and frequency for the US market.

✓ Pros:
  • Potential savings on the fob itself
  • More choice (OEM, refurbished OEM, aftermarket)
✗ Cons:
  • High risk of buying the wrong or non-programmable fob
  • Some dealers/locksmiths won’t program customer-supplied fobs or may not warranty them

⚠️ What to Avoid

✕ Continuing to use a cracked or loose fob without securing it—internal movement can worsen damage and cause sudden failure.

✕ Using heat, ovens, microwaves, or rice to “dry” a wet fob—heat can warp plastics and damage the circuit board; rice is not effective for corrosion prevention.

✕ Buying a cheap ‘universal’ fob without verifying compatibility (FCC ID/part number/frequency) and return policy—many won’t program to a 2024 Murano.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Throwing away damaged key
  • Not salvaging electronics
  • Buying OEM when aftermarket works
  • Not considering case-only replacement

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still start my 2024 Nissan Murano if the key fob is damaged?

Sometimes. If the fob’s proximity function is weak but not dead, holding it very close to the start button may allow the vehicle to read it. If the fob has no power or severe internal damage, you’ll likely need a replacement fob programmed to the vehicle.

Does a damaged key fob always need reprogramming after repair or a case swap?

Not always. If you move the original internal circuit board into a new shell, the vehicle typically recognizes it as the same key. If you replace the entire fob (different electronics), programming is usually required.

What battery does a 2024 Nissan Murano key fob use?

Most Nissan Intelligent Keys for this era use a CR2032 coin-cell battery, but confirm by opening your fob or checking your owner’s manual to ensure the exact battery type for your specific fob.

If my key fob got wet, is replacing the battery enough?

Not always. Water can cause corrosion that shows up days later. Remove the battery immediately, let the fob dry fully, and monitor for intermittent operation. If buttons stick, range becomes poor, or behavior is inconsistent, replacement or professional cleaning/repair is recommended.

⏱️ Urgency Note: If you only have one working key fob, treat damage as urgent—once it fails completely, towing and more expensive recovery/programming may be required. Also address water exposure quickly to reduce corrosion and prevent sudden lockout/no-start situations.

Related Information

Need Detailed Information?

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

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Last updated: 2026-01-04