These instructions apply to the Nissan Pulsar Mk1 (C13) 2014-2018. For other models, please choose your vehicle here.
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A dead key-fob battery on the Nissan Pulsar (C13, 2014–2018) does not leave you stuck. Pulsar trims fitted with the NISSAN Intelligent Key and a push-button START/STOP ignition can be started by holding the fob against the button, while entry-level cars with a bladed turn-key start as normal. This guide covers both, plus unlocking with the hidden blade and replacing the coin cell.
Start a push-button Pulsar with a dead fob battery
The START/STOP button has a backup antenna that reads the Intelligent Key’s transponder through the radio field, so a flat coin cell does not stop you starting the C13.
- Sit in the driver’s seat with the doors closed and press the brake pedal fully.
- Hold the fob so the Nissan badge on the back touches the START/STOP button.
- A chime confirms the chip has been read. Within about 10 seconds, press the button while keeping the brake down.
- The engine starts. Keep it running until a new battery is fitted — a later restart may fail.
Base Pulsar variants with a turn-key barrel are unaffected by a flat fob: insert the blade and turn to start.
Unlock the doors with the mechanical key
A dead fob disables the remote buttons and keyless walk-up entry, so open the car with the emergency blade.
- Slide the catch on the back of the Intelligent Key and pull the metal blade free.
- Insert the blade into the driver’s door lock and turn to unlock.
- Open the door. The alarm may sound briefly until the car recognises the key inside and you start it.
Immobiliser note
The Pulsar immobiliser is paired to a passive transponder inside the Intelligent Key. Because the start button powers that chip directly, an authorised key still works with a completely dead battery. A flat cell only disables remote locking and proximity detection — starting is unaffected on push-button cars.
Replace the key-fob battery
The Pulsar Intelligent Key uses a single CR2032 3 V coin cell. Check the type printed on the old battery before buying a replacement.
- Slide the mechanical blade out first to release the case latch.
- Prise the two halves apart at the seam with a coin or small flat-blade screwdriver.
- Lift out the old cell and fit the new CR2032 the same way up, close the case, reinsert the blade, and test the buttons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why won’t my Pulsar detect the key? A flat fob battery is the usual cause. Touch the fob to the START/STOP button to start, then replace the CR2032.
Does the touch-start work on every Pulsar? Only on trims with the push-button ignition. Cars with a turn-key barrel start normally regardless of the fob.
What battery does the Pulsar fob take? A CR2032 3 V lithium coin cell, sold cheaply almost anywhere.
Will a dead fob damage anything? No. Only remote locking and walk-up entry stop. The passive immobiliser transponder keeps working.
The key warning stays on after starting — is that normal? Yes. It persists until you fit a fresh cell, then clears on the next start.
If a key-detection fault appears with a dashboard warning light or stored fault code, our sister site autodtcs.com explains what each OBD-II trouble code means.
Disclaimer: The information on this page is provided for general guidance only. Always follow your official service manual and safety precautions when working on your vehicle. We are not responsible for errors, omissions, or any damage resulting from the use of this information.
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