EDIT: To answer my own question, I found a post identifying the different key https://maxima.org/forums/4th-genera...lustrated.html which I am thankful to have(besides my misfortune to only have 1 key), and you can't bypass it without swapping to a whole different ecu. Will also install a shock sensor bc it doesn't seem that difficult


I have a 99 cali spec, Idk if i have the immobilizer I've read 99's do but i'm not sure if all of them do, when i bought the car it was just a nissan key, i reprogrammed fob from my old car.

How can I check for this feature? Would the chip be in the actual key itself? And if i wanted a spare do i have to go to the dealer?

How effective is the immobilizer anyway? Is there no way to start the car without the correct key? I plan on installing shock sensors after everything I've read, but if the immobilizer makes it impossible without the actual key then my mind would be at ease

 

You don't need to go to a dealer to get another chip key. Either a locksmith or a hardware store like Ace Hardware can duplicate chip keys from the original OEM version. I have two chip keys that I purchased at Ace Hardware that are used on a daily basis. I keep the OEM keys in a safe place in the event that I need to get another key made.

If you have a 99 model, you really need to get a copy of the OEM key and use the copy. There are plenty of horror stories on here where people either lost or had their only copy of the OEM key damaged. Replacing the OEM key gets expensive in a hurry.

 

There's two ace hardwares in town. How much do they charge to make another key?

 

The immobilizer function on the Maxima works well, sometimes too well. LOL.

It's mandatory to have a second/third key in case your car randomly decides your chipped key is no longer valid. There are numerous threads on this.

 

$60 to $80 depending on Ace location. I think I paid $70 for the last one

 

Home Depot is now doing it too for $50 I believe.