ITB13052

Classification:
Reference:
Date:
EL13-051
ITB13-052
December 11, 2013
INTELLIGENT KEY NOT DETECTED / ENGINE WILL NOT START
APPLIED VEHICLES:
2013 JX35 (L50)
2014 QX60 (L50)
2011 - 2013 QX56 (Z62)
2014 QX80 (Z62)
2011 - 2013 M37 / M56 (Y51)
2012 - 2013 M35h Hybrid (HY51)
2014 Q70 / Q70 Hybrid (H/Y51)
SERVICE INFORMATION
Intelligent Key (I-Key) systems on the Applied Vehicles use two (2) different Radio Frequencies (RF) that are
similar to other wireless devices; 315 MHz and 433 MHz.
In the event another wireless device (e.g. aftermarket alarm system) is transmitting at the same time as an
I-Key, it can interfere with the I-Key signals being received by the BCM.
If there is interference with I-Key signals, the following symptoms may occur:
• The I-Key is not detected, causing:
¾ The engine to not start (no response when the Stop/Start button is pressed)
¾ “I-Key System Error” displayed in the instrument cluster
¾ “No I-Key Detected” displayed in the instrument cluster
• Intermittent operation of the buttons on the remote (Key FOB).
• Intermittent operation of the door request switches.
The above symptoms are usually intermittent and can be difficult to diagnose.
If a vehicle has experienced the above symptoms, or a customer has reported the above symptoms, refer to
Supplemental Diagnosis / Information on the next page.
Infiniti Bulletins are intended for use by qualified technicians, not 'do-it-yourselfers'. Qualified technicians are
properly trained individuals who have the equipment, tools, safety instruction, and know-how to do a job properly
and safely. NOTE: If you believe that a described condition may apply to a particular vehicle, DO NOT assume that
it does. See your Infiniti dealer to determine if this applies to your vehicle.
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NOTE:
•
The diagnostic items listed below should be checked before replacing any parts or performing any
repairs.
•
Refer to the appropriate Service Manual for complete I-Key system diagnosis and repair information.
Supplemental Diagnosis / Information
•
I-Key fob battery check:
¾ Refer to the appropriate Service Manual (DLK section) for proper battery voltage testing procedure.
¾ Standard voltage range is 2.5 to 3.0 V.
¾ It is recommended that a battery testing 2.8 volts or less be replaced.
•
Location of I-Key: An I-Key should not be stored where the RF signal can be obstructed by nearby
metal objects.
•
Interference from other personal devices: Confirm the I-Key is not placed in close proximity to phones,
other I-Keys, highway PASS Card, etc. that may be transmitting similar RF signals.
•
If none of the above are causing symptoms, check the following:
¾
Inspect the vehicle for the presence of an aftermarket alarm system or radar detector.
NOTE: RF signals coming from the vehicle surroundings can interfere with the I-Key signals
(e.g. radar detectors or aftermarket alarm systems in other vehicles, or RF signals from
surrounding buildings).
¾
Use Signal Tech II to check for interfering signals. See Interference Check on the next page.
Signal Tech-II
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ITB13-052
Interference Check
Signal Tech-II will detect the presence of RF signals that may be interfering with I-Key signals.
1. Place the Signal Tech-II inside the vehicle.
2. Set the ignition to “Key ON Engine OFF” (KOEO).
3. Get all of the vehicle’s I-Keys out of range of the vehicle (place them at least 25 feet away from the
vehicle).
4. With Signal Tech-II, select Key Test, and then select OK.
Figure 1
5. Observe the bar graph for Key.
•
•
Ignore the bar graph for Car.
If a signal is detected in the Key bar graph, this may indicate an interference issue. In this case, the
source of the interference must be isolated / eliminated.
Figure 2
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ITB13-052