Postby ZekeM » Fri Mar 29, 2019 1:50 am
The reason some key duplicators will not make a non transponder copy of some keys, is because of liability issues. On some makes of vehicles, trying to start the vehicle a consecutive number of times with a non-transponder key, or an unprogrammed key, will lock up the immobilizer or the BCM.
That is definitely the case with any immobilizer equipped Nissan. Try it too many times, and you will lock it up. You will know you have screwed up as soon as the starter will no longer engage. The starter will still engage when attempting to start with a bad key, but once the immobilizer locks, the engine won't turn over.
This is something to be aware of, because sometimes transponders in keys go bad. If you continue to to try and start the car when a key goes bad, you compound the problem by locking the immobilizer. If your car turns over and doesn't start, look for the solid immobilizer light in the cluster or on top of the dash. If it goes solid when you turn the key on, don't attempt to start the car. You can keep turning the key on and off and see if you can get the light to go out. If you have another key, try the other key.
If you cannot get the light to go out, don't continually try to start the car. It is time to call a locksmith, or tow to the dealer.