Orange Key Light on Dashboard Nissan Altima: What it Means and What to Do
Many Nissan Altima owners have experienced the dreaded orange “key” warning light suddenly appearing on their dashboard.
This ominous glowing orange icon is in the shape of a car key and is often a cause of concern or panic.
But what exactly does this warning light mean?
Table of Contents
- The Appearance of the Orange Key Light
- What to Do When the Orange Key Light Illuminates
- Hidden Meaning Behind the Orange Key Light
- Frequently Asked Questions About Orange Key Light on Dashboard Nissan Altima
The Appearance of the Orange Key Light
There are a few common triggers for the orange key warning icon.
Low Intelligent Key Battery
- If the battery in the intelligent fob is drained, communication can be disrupted and it can cause the light illumination.
- This is often the most common reason. Replacing the battery typically resolves it.
Interference/Out-of-Range Issues
- The Intelligent Key fobs communicate wirelessly via radio frequencies.
- If the key is too far from the vehicle (greater than 3 feet) or there is interference, connectivity may be lost.
- Moving closer or away from sources of interferences like cell phones, wireless chargers or other electronics may helps it to reconnect.
Key Fob Damage or Defects
- If the Intelligent Key has become damaged, wet or develops a defect, wireless communication ability may decreases.
- Inspect the key fob carefully for any signs of damage or moisture ingress.
- You may need to have it repaired or reprogrammed by a dealership if it is defective.
What to Do When the Orange Key Light Illuminates
- Check the Intelligent Key battery first. Replace the battery with a new CR2032 coin cell battery if it looks drained.
- Move the Intelligent Key closer to the interior door handle or the ignition button and try functions again while watching the light. If it turns off, you may have moved out of the operating range temporarily.
- Inspect the Intelligent Key casing and buttons for any damage, cracks or moisture ingress. Gently wipe out any water and allow it to fully dry before using the key again.
- Turn the ignition to the OFF position and restart the vehicle while having the Intelligent Key inside the car. If the light remains on during the restart attempt, there may be some deeper system issues.
- Visit the Nissan dealership. Therefore, the diagnostic systems can pinpoint the exact issue if you still can’t resolve the warning light.
- In addition to that, you may need the key fob software resets, component replacements or reprogramming as well. Technicians can also check for stored Diagnostic Trouble Codes that are related to the Intelligent Key system.
Hidden Meaning Behind the Orange Key Light
- The orange key light is tied to the Intelligent Key system on newer Nissan Altima models.
- When illuminated, it means the car is not detecting the Intelligent Key fob or there are some issues with the keyless access system.
- This technology allows drivers to enter, start or operate the Altima without actually having to insert and turn a physical key.
- Instead, as long as you have the Intelligent Key fob in your pocket and are near the car, the systems communicate wirelessly to perform functions like unlocking doors or push button starting.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orange Key Light on Dashboard Nissan Altima
Q: How much will it cost to fix the issues that triggers the orange key?
A: Replacing a low-key fob battery is very affordable at just a few dollars. Other system repairs at the dealership could range from $100-$500+ in some cases, depending on the cause and the components’ requirements. Diagnostic fees may also apply.
Q: Can I still get in and start my car if the orange key light is on?
A: Maybe. Suppose the light is coming on because of wireless interference or low key fob battery. In that case, you will still be able to enter and start the car as you get closer to it. But if it’s an unresolved system malfunction, your access could be disrupted without warning.
