2024 Nissan Altima Key Fob Guide (US): Smart Key, Remote Start, Batteries & Replacement Options

The 2024 Nissan Altima in the United States is typically equipped with Nissan Intelligent Key (a proximity “Smart Key”) that supports push-button start and keyless entry. Depending on trim and packages, the fob may also support remote engine start, and some vehicles may use NissanConnect Services for remote start via app instead of (or in addition to) a dedicated fob button. Replacement shopping can be confusing because look-alike fobs may use different FCC IDs, frequencies, or emergency key blade styles. The safest approach is to match the identifiers on an existing working key and confirm compatibility by trim/VIN before buying.

2 Key Types
$250-$550 Dealer Range
$60-$200 Aftermarket Range

Compatible Key Fob Types

The following key types are typically compatible with the 2024 Nissan Altima. Compatibility varies by trim and options.

Nissan Intelligent Key (Smart Key / Proximity Fob)

This is the most common key type for the 2024 Altima. The vehicle detects the fob when it is nearby, allowing keyless entry (touch request on the door handle) and push-button start. The fob also provides traditional remote buttons for lock/unlock and panic, and some versions include remote start depending on equipment.

Features

  • Proximity keyless entry (request switch on door handle)
  • Push-button start/stop
  • Remote lock/unlock and panic (remote start on equipped vehicles)

Buttons

unlocklockpanicremote start

Battery

CR2032

3-5 years typical typical lifespan

Dealer OEM $250-$550 Programming included
Aftermarket $60-$200 Programming separate

Programming

🏢 Dealer Required

Programming typically requires a diagnostic tool with security authorization. Many owners find adding a new smart key generally requires all keys present at the time of programming, and lost-all-keys situations typically require additional security steps.

⚠️ Common Issues

  • CR2032 battery drains faster in extreme cold/heat or if stored too close to the vehicle
  • Intermittent 'Key Not Detected' due to weak battery, fob damage, or interference (phones, RFID, other transmitters)

OEM Remote Head Key (rare on 2024 Altima; base/region-dependent)

Some Nissan models and certain fleet/base configurations can use a traditional transponder key with integrated remote buttons (a non-proximity key). For most 2024 Altimas in the US, consumers generally find the vehicle uses Intelligent Key instead, but it’s still important to verify what the car actually came with before purchasing a replacement.

Features

  • Physical key ignition (if equipped) or transponder-based start authorization
  • Remote lock/unlock and panic
  • Typically simpler than proximity fobs but still requires immobilizer pairing

Buttons

unlocklockpanicremote start

Battery

CR2032

3-5 years typical typical lifespan

Dealer OEM $180-$450 Programming included
Aftermarket $35-$120 Programming separate

Programming

🏢 Dealer Required

Even non-proximity Nissan keys usually require immobilizer programming. Remote functions may require separate pairing steps depending on the system, so confirming the exact key system by VIN is important.

⚠️ Common Issues

  • Key starts the car but remote buttons don’t work due to wrong frequency/FCC ID mismatch
  • Aftermarket shells with poor button alignment can cause stuck buttons or weak range

Cost Comparison: Your Options

🏢

Dealership

$250-$550
  • âś“ OEM quality guaranteed
  • âś“ Programming included
  • âś“ Warranty coverage
  • âś— Higher cost
  • âś— May require appointment

Best for: Warranty coverage, guaranteed compatibility

🔧

Locksmith

$150-$400
  • âś“ Often same-day service
  • âś“ Mobile options available
  • âś“ Programming included
  • âś“ Often OEM parts
  • â–ł Verify credentials

Best for: Speed, convenience, moderate savings

📦

Aftermarket Online

$60-$200
  • âś“ Lowest cost option
  • âś“ Wide selection
  • âś— Programming not included
  • âś— Compatibility varies
  • â–ł Check return policy

Best for: DIY-capable owners, budget-conscious

Typical price ranges are driven by whether it’s a proximity smart key, whether all keys are lost, and whether an emergency key blade must be cut. Consumers generally find OEM fobs cost more but reduce compatibility risk, while aftermarket options can be cost-effective if identifiers match exactly.

đź›’ Buyer's Checklist

Before purchasing a replacement key fob for your 2024 Nissan Altima, verify these points:

1 Verify the FCC ID and IC/part number on your current fob (or confirm by VIN if no working key remains)
2 Confirm the key type: Intelligent Key (proximity/push-start) vs. any non-proximity/transponder setup
3 Match the emergency key blade style (and whether a new blade is included or must be cut separately)
4 Check for remote start compatibility: some Altimas rely on NissanConnect/app or specific packages rather than a fob button
5 Avoid “universal” listings unless they explicitly state compatibility with 2024 Altima US frequency and identifiers

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

âś—

Buying a look-alike fob without matching FCC ID/frequency, leading to a fob that cannot be programmed

âś—

Assuming every 2024 Altima fob has remote start—equipment varies by trim/package and connected-services setup

âś—

Replacing only the shell and accidentally damaging the circuit board or losing the emergency key insert

Related Model Years

Key fob compatibility often spans multiple model years. These years typically share similar key systems:

2023 2024

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a 2024 Nissan Altima use a Smart Key (proximity) or a regular transponder key?

Most 2024 Nissan Altimas in the US use Nissan Intelligent Key (a proximity Smart Key) with push-button start. Some edge cases (fleet or unusual configurations) can differ, so consumers generally find the most reliable method is to confirm by VIN and by checking what the vehicle currently uses (push-button start and door-handle request sensors typically indicate proximity).

What battery does a 2024 Nissan Altima key fob take?

The Intelligent Key fob for the 2024 Altima typically uses a CR2032 coin-cell battery. If range drops, the car shows “Key Battery Low,” or the fob works intermittently, replacing the CR2032 is a common first step. Always confirm the battery type printed inside the fob before buying.

Can a 2024 Nissan Altima key fob be programmed without professional tools?

For the 2024 Altima, options typically include programming through a dealership or an automotive locksmith with the appropriate diagnostic equipment and security access. Consumers generally find that modern Nissan smart keys are not designed for DIY programming without specialized tools, especially for adding keys or handling lost-all-keys situations.

If my 2024 Altima key fob has a remote start button, will remote start always work?

Not always. Remote start depends on the vehicle’s equipment and configuration (trim/package and, in some cases, NissanConnect Services). A fob with a remote start icon may still fail to work if the car isn’t equipped for fob-based remote start, if the wrong fob is used, or if programming/feature activation doesn’t match the vehicle.

What should be matched when buying a replacement 2024 Nissan Altima key fob online?

Match the FCC ID, IC number (if listed), and OEM part number from a known working fob whenever possible, and confirm it’s intended for the US market/frequency. Also verify the emergency key blade style and whether the listing includes an uncut insert. Consumers generally find that matching identifiers is more important than matching the exterior appearance.

Need Help With a Specific Situation?

🚨 Lost All Keys What to do when you've lost your only key ➕ Get a Spare Add a backup key before emergencies 🔋 Dead Battery Replace your key fob battery ⚖️ Compare Options Full comparison of all options

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Last updated: 2026-01-04