P1614

NATS Chain of IMMU-Key

Car Fault Codes Nissan Engine computer & electrical

Can you still drive? No, stop right away

Who can fix it? Needs a workshop

Typical repair time 30 minutes – 3 hours

Typical cost SAR 150 to 2,000

What it means

This is a Nissan-specific code for vehicles with NATS; the same number can mean something different on other makes. It means the immobilizer unit (IMMU) did not receive the ID signal from the key's transponder chip through the antenna around the ignition key cylinder. The usual cause is a damaged or missing key chip, a faulty antenna, or interference from other keys.

Models covered: Nissan (and Infiniti) models with NATS (Nissan Anti-Theft System), mainly around 1999–2008 (e.g. Altima, Maxima, Sentra, Pathfinder, X-Trail).

Symptoms4

The engine will not start with one key but may start with another.
The security indicator light stays on with the ignition on.
The fault may clear when the key is moved in the cylinder, then return.
The fault appeared after the key was dropped or its shell was replaced.

Possible causes6

A damaged transponder chip inside the key, or a chip lost after changing the key shell.
A key copied mechanically only, without a transponder chip.
Interference from other chipped keys or metal objects on the key ring.
A faulty NATS antenna around the ignition key cylinder.
A loose connector or damaged wire between the antenna and the immobilizer unit.
A faulty immobilizer unit (less common).

How to diagnose5

Try each original key on its own, away from other keys; if the engine starts with one, the other key is at fault.
Open the suspect key shell and confirm the chip is present and intact.
If all keys fail, inspect the antenna connector at the key cylinder and its wiring.
Check antenna power, ground and wiring continuity to the immobilizer unit per the wiring diagram.
Use a Nissan-capable scan tool to check whether the unit is receiving the key signal.

How to fix6

Remove other keys and metal objects from the ignition key.
Refit the chip if it fell out of the key shell.
Repair the damaged connector or wire in the antenna circuit.
Replace the NATS antenna if confirmed faulty.
Buy a new key with the correct chip and register it together with the other keys using a Nissan-capable tool.
Clear the codes and test starting with every key to confirm the fault is gone.

Repair cost

0–500

500–2,000

2,000–5,000

5,000+

In Saudi riyals; the highlighted part is the expected range for this fault.

The cost is low when the cause is interference or a chip that fell out of the key shell, and rises if a new antenna or a new key with programming is needed.

Prices are rough estimates for common cars at independent workshops and vary with the car and the source of the part.
Prices last updated: September 2026

Frequently asked questions

I replaced the key shell and now the car won't start. Why?

The transponder chip sits inside the old shell and may not have been moved to the new one, so the immobilizer has nothing to read. Move the chip over and try again.

How do I know if the problem is the key or the car?

Try the original spare key. If the engine starts with it, the first key is at fault; if every key fails, the antenna or its wiring is more likely.

Can other keys on the ring cause this?

Yes. Chipped keys for other cars or some metal objects can interfere with the antenna, so try the key on its own.

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This guide is for information only and does not replace an inspection by a qualified technician. If the fault involves brakes, steering, engine temperature, electrics or refrigerant, do not attempt the repair yourself.

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