To reset the anti-theft system on a Nissan Altima push to start, you’ll need to switch the ignition on without turning on the engine for about five seconds. Then switch the ignition off for about 10 seconds. Repeat both steps again and your Nissan Altima’s anti-theft system should be reset.
More often than not, we are the ones who set the security alarm off in our own vehicles. This can seem like an annoying feature when your alarm is blaring in the middle of the Target parking lot, but it is always better to have the security feature than not.
When it’s time to shut the thing off and be able to start your engine again, though, it’s good to know how the anti-theft system reset works. So Jerry
, the trusted insurance comparison app
, has put together this guide on resetting the anti-theft system of a Nissan Altima push to start. We’ll also show you how to save on Nissan Altima car insurance costs
. How to reset the Nissan Altima anti-theft system
When the anti-theft system of your Nissan Altima is triggered, two separate security measures are initiated. To reset the vehicle security system and turn off the anti-theft light, you’ll just need to press the unlock button on your Nissan Intelligent Key, the key registered to your vehicle.
That will take care of the flashing lights and honking horn, but the Nissan Altima is also equipped with the Nissan Vehicle Immobilizer System, which prevents an engine startup in the event of a triggered anti-theft system.
To reset the immobilizer system, leave the engine off but turn the ignition to the “on” position for five seconds. Then, turn the ignition back off for 10 seconds. You’ll need to repeat both of those steps at least once more and then you can restart your engine. If you’re still getting a dead start, check your key ring to make sure there aren’t any other devices swinging too closely to your registered key—this can interfere with the registered key’s signal.
Not in possession of your registered Nissan key? You’ll need to visit a Nissan dealership or call a mobile mechanic for assistance.
What does the anti-theft system on a Nissan Altima do?
The anti-theft system of a Nissan Altima is considered a Passive Anti-Theft System because you don’t have to actively arm it when leaving your vehicle. It arms itself when the hood, trunk, and all doors are shut properly and the vehicle is locked by the button on the Intelligent Key, the door handle switch, or the power door lock switch.
Once those conditions are met, the anti-theft system enters a pre-arming phase in which the security indicator light solidly illuminates for a short period of time. If any compartment is unlocked or the ignition is switched on during the pre-arming phase, the system will cancel the arming process.
You’ll know that the anti-theft system has been properly armed when the security indicator light (it looks like an outline of a car with a key on the inside) begins to blink every few seconds. Then, if triggered, your Nissan will start flashing its lights and honking its horn on and off while also preventing your vehicle from starting.
How to program a new transponder key
The Nissan Intelligent Key is, well, the key to disarming and resetting your vehicle’s anti-theft system. If for whatever reason you don’t have a registered key or if you just want to make sure you have another one on hand, grab a new fob from a Nissan dealer or auto parts supplier and follow these steps to program the new key:
Find and open the “transmitter” compartment in your vehicle. It is typically found near the driver’s door jam or on the underside of an armrest.
Press and hold the button marked “program” inside the compartment.
Press and hold any button on the new key fob until the door lock lights begin flashing. This usually takes between three and six seconds.
The door lock lights will stop flashing to indicate a successful program, then you can release the “program” button.
Try out your newly programmed key by hitting the lock and unlock functions and making sure the correct action follows. If nothing happens, repeat the process. If, after the repeat, you’re still holding a non-functioning key fob, you may need to make an appointment at your local Nissan dealership for more guidance.
What can trigger the Nissan anti-theft system?
Nissan’s anti-theft system is designed to set off alarms and alerts for potentially unauthorized entry into your vehicle. As such, it will be triggered when a non-registered key is used to unlock the vehicle or when there are signs of a forced entry (including the ol’ wire hanger pulling up the lock trick).
However, those are not the only situations that can put the Nissan anti-theft system on high alert. Other triggers for this security system can include:
Dead vehicle battery or faulty battery connections
Broken door lock or door handle
Dead or dying key fob battery
Not sure what’s causing the trip of your anti-theft system? It’s best to bring your Altima to a Nissan dealership for a once-over. A Nissan technician should be able to scan your vehicle and identify potential issues.
Can the Nissan Altima anti-theft system lower your insurance rate?
Did you know that installing an anti-theft device in your Nissan Altima could lower your insurance rates? Anti-theft technology lowers your risk of a break-in or car theft and can knock between 5% and 25% off comprehensive coverage! Not too bad for a security system that comes standard with the new Nissan Altima models.
And if you’re looking for even more security (and potentially even more of a discount), consider adding additional anti-theft devices to your Altima! One of the more popular options is a catalytic converter strap since that car part sees a lot of theft.
Ask your insurance company about their security device discounts to see how you could qualify.
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How to save on Nissan Altima insurance
While the anti-theft system in your Nissan Altima is a great deterrent for car theft and break-ins, it won’t protect you from everything. If you’re rolling with just the basic liability insurance minimums required by your state, it’s likely your policy won’t offer all that much protection.
Adding coverage like comprehensive insurance
will help shoulder the damages from things like car theft, but it can also raise your rates to sometimes unreasonable heights. That is, unless you use Jerry
to find the right policy. Jerry is the easiest and most effective way to find a car insurance policy that is customized for you. It’s this simple: download the Jerry app and in less than one minute, Jerry collects all of your information from your existing insurer. Choose from competitive Nissan Altima insurance quotes
from top insurance companies and Jerry takes care of the rest—securing your new policy and helping you cancel your old one upon request. No long forms, no calling around, no hard work. The average Jerry user saves over $800 per year on car insurance
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