Replace the Key Battery

When the key battery in your Nissan Sentra (B17, 2013–2019) runs low, the remote range drops and, on push-button cars, a Key battery low message appears in the display. Replacing it takes a minute. The Sentra came with two different keys, so check which one you have — they take different batteries.

Which Key Do You Have?

• Intelligent Key (push-button start trims) — a smart fob with a hidden mechanical key blade. Battery: CR2025.
• Key fob (base turn-key trims) — a remote held together by a small screw. Battery: CR1620.

Intelligent Key (CR2025)

1. Slide the mechanical key blade out of the fob.
2. Insert a small screwdriver into the slit at the corner and gently twist to split the upper and lower halves. Keep a cloth over the tip to protect the case.
3. Fit a new CR2025, handling it by the edges. Make sure the + side faces the bottom of the case.
4. Close the case until it clicks, refit the key blade, and test the buttons.

Key Fob (CR1620)

1. Remove the screw on the back of the fob.
2. Insert a small screwdriver into the slit at the corner and twist to separate the halves (use a cloth to protect the case).
3. Fit a new CR1620 with the + side facing the bottom of the case.
4. Close the lid, refit the screw securely, and operate the buttons to check.

Do not touch the internal circuit board or the metal terminals — it can cause a malfunction.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which battery does my key take? The push-button Intelligent Key uses a CR2025; the base turn-key remote uses a CR1620. Both are 3-volt lithium coin cells.

Which way up does it go? Positive (+) side facing the bottom of the case in both keys.

The remote is still weak after a new battery? Check the + orientation and that you did not touch the contacts. If range is still poor, the key may need re-synchronising at a dealer.

Will the car still start if the Intelligent Key is dead? Yes — touch the key to the push-button start and the immobiliser reads it by contact. See our dead Intelligent Key guide.

If a warning lamp is lit alongside a key or start problem and you want to check the code, visit our sister site autodtcs.com.