How to Program an Infiniti Key Fob (DIY, Dealer, or Locksmith)

Infiniti shares its key systems with Nissan, so the vocabulary is the same: a “remote keyless entry” fob on older cars and the Intelligent Key (push-button start) on most cars since the G35 and FX era. Those two systems are programmed very differently, so start by working out which you have.

Infiniti Key Types by Era

Year ranges are approximate; Intelligent Key was optional on some models before becoming standard.

Can You Program an Infiniti Key Fob Yourself?

If your Infiniti has a separate remote and a traditional key, there is a good chance you can add the remote yourself with a Nissan-family onboard procedure. If it has an Intelligent Key and push-button start, you cannot register a new key without a tool.

Onboard procedure for older separate remotes

The commonly used Nissan/Infiniti sequence for many late-1990s and early-2000s cars is below. Procedures vary by model, so check your owner’s manual or a dealer if it does not work after two or three careful attempts.

1. Sit in the driver’s seat, close all doors, and lock them with the power lock switch.
2. Insert the key into the ignition and remove it fully, six or more times within about 10 seconds. The hazard lights should flash twice to confirm programming mode.
3. Insert the key and turn it to ACC.
4. Press any button on the first remote. The hazards flash to confirm.
5. To add another remote, unlock and relock with the power lock switch, then press a button on the next remote. Repeat for each remote.
6. Turn the ignition off, remove the key and test each remote.

All remotes should be programmed in the same session; previously stored remotes not re-entered may be erased. The key’s immobilizer chip still needs a tool if the key itself is new.

What You Need for an Intelligent Key

• The correct Intelligent Key, matching FCC ID and part number. Intelligent Keys look similar across models but are not all interchangeable.
• A new key. Infiniti Intelligent Keys generally cannot be reused once registered to another car.
• All your existing keys. Intelligent Key registration typically erases keys that are not presented in the session.
• The security PIN or online access. Dealers handle this with CONSULT; locksmith tools can calculate or obtain it on many models.
• Proof of ownership.

How Infiniti Intelligent Key Programming Works

1. Cut the emergency blade to your VIN key code.
2. Connect CONSULT or a locksmith tool to the OBD2 port.
3. Enter the PIN or authorize online.
4. Register every key. The tool clears the stored list and asks you to present each key, often by holding it to the start button or placing it in a specific spot.
5. Test each key: request switch on the door handles, remote buttons, and push-button start.

See our programming a key fob with OBD2 guide for what these tools do.

Infiniti Key Fob Programming by Model

Infiniti G35 and G37 key fob programming

Many G35s (2003 to 2007) have Intelligent Key, especially later years and higher trims, while some have a conventional key and remote. All G37s (2008 to 2013) in the US use Intelligent Key, which needs a tool.

Infiniti Q50 key fob programming

The Q50 (2014 on, including the 2015 Q50) uses Intelligent Key registered through OBD2. Bring all keys, since registration erases keys not present.

Infiniti QX60 and QX80 key fob programming

The QX60 (2014 on, including the 2018 QX60) and QX80 (2014 on) use Intelligent Key. Locksmith coverage is good for most years; very new models may need a dealer.

Infiniti Key Fob Replacement and Programming Cost

For more detail, see the key fob programming cost guide.

If It Doesn’t Work

• Hazards never flash during the onboard procedure: your model may use a different sequence or require a tool.
• “Key ID incorrect” or “no key detected”: the key was not registered or the battery is weak. Infiniti Intelligent Keys commonly use a CR2025 or CR2032 depending on model; see the Infiniti key fob battery replacement guide.
• An old key stopped working: it was not presented during registration.

Because Infiniti uses Nissan systems, our Nissan key fob programming guide and Nissan key system error guide apply to many Infinitis. For every brand, see the key fob programming hub.

Checklist Before You Book

• Gather every Intelligent Key. Keys left at home will usually stop working after a new key is registered.
• Find the FCC ID. It is printed on the back of the key or inside the case. Use it to buy or quote the correct replacement.
• Ask about the emergency blade. Every Intelligent Key has a mechanical blade inside, and it must be cut to your VIN to open the door if the battery dies.
• Check the BCM. On some older Infinitis, key registration problems trace back to the body control module, not the key; a good shop will check.
• Replace the battery before blaming the key. A weak cell causes “no key detected” messages that look like a programming fault.

Frequently Asked Questions