Infiniti Key Fob Replacement: Cost, Options, and Programming

Infiniti is Nissan’s luxury brand, and its keys use the same Nissan Anti-Theft System (NATS) and Intelligent Key technology. That keeps replacement costs below most European luxury brands and means many locksmiths can program them. The details still depend on your model year and whether you have any working keys left.

This guide covers Infiniti key types, batteries, OEM versus aftermarket and refurbished options, case replacement, warranty questions, and programming. For broader price context, see how much a new key fob costs.

Infiniti Key Fob Replacement Options at a Glance

Infiniti Key Types by Era

Keyed ignition with separate remote

Older Infinitis, roughly through the early-to-mid 2000s on many models, used a transponder key working with NATS plus a separate keyless entry remote or a remote built into the key head. On many of these, the remote can be paired at home with an ignition and button sequence when you have a working key.

Intelligent Key

From the mid-2000s, Infiniti adopted the Intelligent Key (keyless entry and push-button start) across the lineup, including the G35 and G37, FX and QX70, M and Q70, and later the Q50, Q60, QX50, QX60, and QX80. Each Intelligent Key has a mechanical emergency key that slides out of the fob. Button layouts differ by model: power liftgate, remote start, and trunk buttons vary.

Infiniti Key Fob Battery

Many older Intelligent Keys from the G35 and G37 era use a CR2025, while many later Infiniti fobs use a CR2032. Both are 3V coin cells but differ in thickness, so check the code printed on your current battery. Our Infiniti key fob battery replacement guide shows how to open each style. A weak cell is the most common cause of a “key not detected” message.

Infiniti Key Fob Replacement Case and Shell

Infiniti fobs are known for cracked cases and worn chrome trim after a few years of pocket wear. If the fob still locks, unlocks, and starts the car, you do not need a new key. A replacement case or shell lets you move the original circuit board and emergency key into fresh plastic.

• Match the shape and button layout to your fob exactly.
• Transfer the circuit board, battery, and any rubber button pad carefully.
• Check that the emergency key blade fits the new shell, or move your old one.

Shells are widely sold on Amazon and eBay. Quality varies, so read the fitment notes. Our key fob shell replacement guide walks through the swap.

Dealer, Locksmith, or Online: Pros and Cons

Infiniti dealer

Pros: Genuine key ordered by VIN, factory programming, and a parts warranty on dealer-installed parts (ask for the terms in writing). Cons: Highest price. Who it suits: Newer models, all-keys-lost, and owners who want warranty coverage.

Locksmith service

Pros: Lower price, mobile service, and Nissan-family programming is widely supported. Cons: Warranty terms vary; ask whether the key is OEM, refurbished, or aftermarket. Who it suits: Most Infiniti owners.

Online fobs (Amazon, eBay)

Pros: The cheapest part. Cons: Must match the FCC ID and part number exactly, and you still need professional programming. Some listings mix up similar-looking Nissan and Infiniti fobs with different frequencies. Read are aftermarket key fobs any good before buying.

Can a Used Infiniti Key Be Reprogrammed?

It depends on the generation. Some Nissan-family Intelligent Keys can be programmed to a different vehicle when the part number and FCC ID match, which is why refurbished Infiniti keys are common. Others cannot be reused once programmed. Ask your locksmith before buying a used key, and see reprogramming a used key fob for what to check.

How Infiniti Key Programming Works

An Infiniti Intelligent Key must be registered to the car’s NATS and Intelligent Key system through the OBD2 port. That requires dealer software or a locksmith tool, plus a security PIN calculated from the vehicle’s module. When a new key is registered, existing keys are typically re-registered in the same session, so bring every key you have. Older separate remotes can often be paired by the owner. Our Infiniti key fob programming guide covers which models allow DIY steps.

Because Infiniti shares its systems with Nissan, the warning messages and fixes in Nissan key fob not working and Nissan key system error usually apply to Infiniti too.

What to Expect From an Infiniti Key Replacement Service

Whether you use the dealer or a mobile locksmith, the visit follows a similar pattern:

1. Ownership check. Expect to show photo ID plus the registration or title. The VIN is used to look up the correct key and, for the dealer, the mechanical key code.
2. Key cutting. The emergency key blade is cut by code or decoded from a door lock. This blade is your backup if the fob battery dies.
3. Registration. The technician connects to the OBD2 port, obtains the security PIN, and registers the new key along with your existing keys.
4. Testing. Check lock, unlock, trunk or liftgate, remote start if equipped, push-button start, and the emergency start position for a weak fob.

A spare key with a working original typically takes 20 to 45 minutes. All-keys-lost takes longer, and at the dealer it may mean a tow plus a wait for the key to arrive.

How to Save on an Infiniti Key

• Try a fresh battery first; it fixes most range and detection complaints.
• Replace only the shell when the electronics work.
• Get a spare while you have a working key.
• Compare an all-in locksmith quote with the dealer price, and ask both about warranty.

Infiniti Key Replacement Checklist

• Decide: new key, or just a new case?
• Note the FCC ID, part number, and button layout.
• Check the battery type printed on the current cell.
• Bring all existing keys to the programming appointment.
• Get warranty terms in writing.

Frequently Asked Questions