These instructions apply to the Nissan Quest Mk4 (RE52) 2011-2017.
For other models, please choose your vehicle here.
If the Intelligent Key battery in your Nissan Quest (RE52, 2011–2017) dies, the push-button start may not respond and an Intelligent Key battery-discharge indicator appears on the display. You can still start the van — the ignition switch has a backup that reads the key by touch.
How to Start With a Dead Key Battery
- Move the shift lever to P (Park).
- Firmly apply the foot brake and keep it pressed.
- Touch the push-button ignition switch with the Intelligent Key as shown in the vehicle’s illustration — a chime sounds to confirm the key has been read.
- Within 10 seconds of the chime, press the ignition switch while still holding the brake. The engine starts.
- Drive as normal, and replace the key battery as soon as you can.
Why It Works
There is a backup antenna built into the push-button ignition switch. Touching the key to the button lets that antenna read the transponder directly, even when the fob’s own battery is too flat to transmit. The discharge indicator will keep showing until you fit a fresh cell — you can clear it temporarily by touching the key to the switch again.
If It Still Will Not Start
Make sure the shift lever is in P and the brake is firmly pressed, and touch the exact face of the button shown in the manual. If nothing at all responds — no lights, no chime — the vehicle’s 12-volt battery may be flat, which is a different fault (the ignition then cannot leave OFF until you jump start). Fit a new key battery (a CR2025) at the first opportunity; see our key-fob battery guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which battery does the key take? A CR2025 coin cell — see our key-fob battery replacement guide for the swap.
Do I press the button or does touching start it? Touching only lets the system read the key; you still press the ignition switch with the brake held to start.
The discharge indicator stays on after I replace the battery. Touch the key to the ignition switch once more; it clears when the system next reads a healthy key.
Is my 12-volt battery the problem instead? If there is no response at all, suspect the 12-volt battery, not the key.
If a warning lamp stays on after starting, our sister site autodtcs.com lists engine trouble codes.
Independent guide — not affiliated with Nissan. Always follow your official service manual and safety precautions. Read our full disclaimer.