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Lost Key Fob for a 2024 Nissan Altima (US): What to Do Now & Replacement Options

Losing the key fob for a 2024 Nissan Altima can leave you stranded and worried about vehicle security. The good news is replacements are available through Nissan dealers and many automotive locksmiths, and you can reduce risk immediately with a few quick actions.

Understanding Your Situation

The Intelligent Key (keyless entry/push-start) fob is missing, so you may not be able to unlock or start the vehicle, and there’s a chance someone else could use the fob if it was lost with identifying information.

🚀 Immediate Steps to Take

  1. Confirm it’s truly lost: retrace steps, check bags/pockets, couch/car seats, and use any Bluetooth tracker if attached.
  2. Secure the vehicle: move it to a safe location if possible, lock it, and remove valuables and any paperwork showing your address (registration/insurance) if you can access the cabin.
  3. Plan replacement and security: if you suspect theft or the fob was lost with identifying info, arrange to have the missing fob erased from the car’s memory when the new fob is programmed.

Your Options

Nissan dealership replacement (OEM fob + programming)

Cost: $250-$550 Time: Same day / 1-3 days (depending on fob availability and appointment)

The dealer verifies ownership, supplies an OEM Intelligent Key fob, and programs it to your 2024 Altima. They can also erase lost keys from the vehicle’s system so the missing fob no longer works.

âś“ Pros:
  • OEM parts and factory-level programming
  • Can disable (erase) the lost fob for security
  • Clear documentation and warranty support
âś— Cons:
  • Often the highest total cost
  • May require towing or bringing the car to the dealer if you have no working key
  • Appointment and parts availability can delay service

Mobile automotive locksmith (cut emergency key + program fob on-site)

Cost: $180-$450 Time: Same day

A licensed automotive locksmith comes to the vehicle, verifies ownership, supplies a compatible fob (OEM or high-quality aftermarket, depending on availability), programs it, and can typically erase missing keys from memory.

âś“ Pros:
  • Convenient on-site service (no towing in many cases)
  • Often faster than a dealer for emergencies
  • Can be less expensive than dealership replacement
âś— Cons:
  • Quality varies—must choose a reputable, licensed locksmith
  • Aftermarket fobs (if used) may have different feel/fit than OEM
  • Some situations still require dealer involvement if specialized modules/security issues are present

Use a spare key/fob (if available) and add a replacement

Cost: $150-$400 Time: Same day / 1-3 days

If you still have one working Intelligent Key, you can drive the car and schedule programming for an additional fob. You’ll still want the lost fob erased if it’s truly missing and could be found by someone else.

âś“ Pros:
  • Avoids towing and reduces downtime
  • Lets you schedule service at your convenience
  • Best path to restoring a two-fob setup
âś— Cons:
  • Doesn’t address security unless the lost fob is erased
  • Still requires programming—most modern fobs can’t be added without proper equipment
  • If you later lose the last working fob, replacement is usually more urgent and can be more expensive

Insurance or roadside assistance support (reimbursement/tow)

Cost: $0-$200 (plus deductible/policy limits) Time: Same day / 1-3 days

Depending on your policy or membership, you may get reimbursement for locksmith services or towing to a dealer. This doesn’t replace the key by itself but can reduce out-of-pocket costs.

âś“ Pros:
  • May lower your total cost
  • Towing can be covered if you’re stranded
  • Helpful if the vehicle is in an unsafe location
âś— Cons:
  • Coverage varies widely and may exclude key replacement
  • Claims/deductibles can outweigh the benefit
  • May still need to coordinate separately with a dealer or locksmith

⚠️ What to Avoid

✕ Buying a random cheap fob online without confirming exact compatibility and return policy—many can’t be programmed to your vehicle or are low quality.

✕ Skipping the “erase lost keys” step if theft is possible—otherwise the missing fob may still unlock/start the car if found.

✕ Using unlicensed or unverified services that won’t prove ownership or provide an invoice—this can increase fraud risk and may leave you with a non-working key.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Calling dealer first without getting quotes
  • Not checking insurance coverage
  • Rushing to tow to dealership
  • Not considering mobile locksmiths

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I start a 2024 Nissan Altima if the key fob battery is dead?

Often, yes—many push-button start systems allow an emergency start method using the fob close to the start button, but the exact procedure can vary by trim and system. Check your owner’s manual for the specific steps. If the fob is lost (not just dead), you’ll need a programmed replacement.

Do I need to tow my Altima to the dealer if I lost my only key fob?

Not always. Many mobile automotive locksmiths can come to the vehicle and program a new fob on-site after verifying ownership. If a locksmith can’t support your specific configuration or there’s a security/module issue, towing to a Nissan dealer may be required.

Will the lost key fob still work after I get a new one?

It can, unless it’s erased from the vehicle’s memory during programming. For security, request that all missing/lost keys be removed (erased) so the lost fob can no longer unlock or start the car.

What do I need to bring to get a replacement key fob?

Typically: a government-issued photo ID and proof of ownership (registration or title). Some providers may also require proof of insurance. Requirements can vary by dealer/locksmith and local regulations.

⏱️ Urgency Note: If the fob was lost with your address (or you suspect theft), treat it as urgent: arrange replacement and have the missing fob erased as soon as possible, and consider parking the vehicle in a secured area until then.

Related Information

Need Detailed Information?

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

View Altima Key Fob Guide →

Last updated: 2026-01-04