Key Fob Stolen high urgency

Key Fob Stolen: What to Do for a 2024 Nissan Murano (US)

If your 2024 Nissan Murano key fob was stolen, treat it as a security issue—not just an inconvenience. The stolen fob may be able to unlock and start your vehicle until it’s removed from the car’s system. Acting quickly helps reduce the risk of theft and avoids being stranded.

Understanding Your Situation

A stolen key fob can still function like an authorized key, especially if the thief knows where the vehicle is parked. Until the Murano’s key system is updated to remove the missing fob and add a replacement, your vehicle may remain vulnerable to unauthorized entry and starting.

🚀 Immediate Steps to Take

  1. Secure the vehicle now: move it to a locked garage or well-lit monitored area, lock all doors, and remove valuables. If you suspect the thief knows where the car is, consider relocating it immediately.
  2. Contact authorities and document: file a police report (often needed for insurance) and note the date/time/location, fob type, and any identifying details (e.g., tags on the key ring).
  3. Arrange key security service ASAP: contact a Nissan dealer (or a qualified automotive locksmith who services late-model Nissan smart keys) to erase/disable the stolen fob and program replacement fob(s).

Your Options

Nissan dealer: erase missing fob + program new Intelligent Key

Cost: $350-$800+ Time: Same day to 1-3 days (depends on fob availability/appointments)

The dealer verifies ownership, connects factory diagnostic equipment, removes the stolen fob from the vehicle’s authorized key list, and programs new Intelligent Key fob(s). They can also cut/program an emergency key insert if applicable.

âś“ Pros:
  • Most reliable path for newest model years and security-related key work
  • Stolen fob can be removed from the vehicle’s system
  • OEM parts and documentation; may help with warranty/insurance claims
âś— Cons:
  • Higher cost than many locksmiths
  • May require towing if you have no working key/fob available

Automotive locksmith (mobile): replace + program smart key and disable stolen fob

Cost: $250-$650 Time: Same day (if the correct fob is in stock)

A qualified locksmith comes to the vehicle, verifies ownership, and uses professional programming tools to add a new smart key and (when supported) remove the missing/stolen fob from the authorized list.

âś“ Pros:
  • Convenient mobile service; may avoid towing
  • Often faster scheduling and lower cost than a dealer
  • Can provide emergency key cutting in many cases
âś— Cons:
  • Not all locksmiths can service the newest Nissan systems or fully erase lost keys
  • Quality varies—requires careful vetting and proof-of-ownership checks

Insurance claim (comprehensive): reimbursement for key replacement and rekeying-related costs

Cost: $0-$1,000+ (depends on deductible and coverage) Time: 1-7 days (varies by insurer and documentation)

If you carry comprehensive coverage, your policy may cover some or all costs related to stolen keys (replacement fob/programming, towing, and possibly lock rekeying depending on policy). You’ll typically need a police report and receipts.

âś“ Pros:
  • Can reduce out-of-pocket cost significantly
  • Creates a paper trail for theft-related losses
âś— Cons:
  • Deductible may exceed the key replacement cost
  • Claim may affect premiums depending on insurer and history

Temporary risk-reduction while waiting: physical security measures

Cost: $30-$200 Time: Same day

Use layered deterrents (locked garage, steering wheel lock, driveway security camera, parking in a monitored area). This does not replace disabling the stolen fob, but can reduce immediate risk until service is completed.

âś“ Pros:
  • Immediate action you can take right away
  • Adds deterrence even after new fob is programmed
âś— Cons:
  • Does not stop a stolen fob from working if the vehicle is accessible
  • Not a substitute for removing the stolen fob from the car’s system

⚠️ What to Avoid

✕ Don’t wait to “see if it turns up.” A stolen fob can allow quick theft if the car is located.

✕ Don’t buy cheap, unknown-source fobs online without confirming compatibility and return policy—many are incorrect, locked, or counterfeit and can’t be programmed.

✕ Don’t share your VIN, registration photos, or personal info with unverified sellers or callers offering “remote programming” or unusually low prices.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Not deactivating stolen key
  • Delaying reprogramming
  • Not filing police report
  • Ignoring security risk

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a thief start my 2024 Murano with the stolen fob?

Potentially, yes—if the stolen fob is still authorized to the vehicle, it may unlock the doors and enable starting when inside the vehicle. The safest response is to have the stolen fob removed from the vehicle’s key system and program replacement fobs as soon as possible.

Do I need to replace locks if my key fob was stolen?

Usually the priority is disabling the stolen fob electronically and programming new fobs. Physical lock replacement/rekeying is less common for smart-key theft, but may be considered if the thief also stole a mechanical/emergency key blade or has identifying info that links the fob to your vehicle’s location.

What if I have no spare key fob?

You can still recover, but it may require towing to a dealer or having a locksmith come to the vehicle. Proof of ownership will be required, and the vehicle may need to be present for programming and to remove the stolen fob from the system.

Will disabling the stolen fob erase my remaining fobs too?

It depends on the procedure and equipment used. In many cases, the vehicle’s key list is rebuilt and only the fobs present during programming remain authorized—so bring all remaining working fobs to the appointment to avoid accidentally disabling them.

Can I track a stolen Nissan key fob?

The factory key fob itself typically isn’t trackable. If the key ring had a separate tracker (e.g., AirTag/Tile), use that app and share information with law enforcement rather than attempting recovery yourself.

⏱️ Urgency Note: High urgency: a stolen, still-authorized smart key can allow fast vehicle theft if the thief can access the Murano. Prioritize relocating the vehicle to a secure spot and scheduling key deletion/reprogramming immediately.

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