The 2005–2012 Pathfinder uses the same key setup, so everything on this page applies to those years too. The full picture is on the Nissan Pathfinder key guide.

2012 Nissan Pathfinder: key facts

Key type: Transponder chip key
Push-to-start: No
Transponder chip: ID46 (Philips Hitag-2)
Programming: OBD
All keys lost: We can originate new keys on site

Bladed NI04T ID46 key, keyed ignition; some key vendors list an optional twist-ignition Intelligent Key on late R51s — confirmed per vehicle.

Same key system as the 2005–2012 Pathfinder

Nissan kept the Pathfinder's key system unchanged across 2005–2012, so everything about replacing a 2012 key — blanks, programming, and what happens if every key is lost — matches the rest of that run. The full year-by-year breakdown lives in our Nissan Pathfinder key guide.

What drives the price is the key type, whether you still have a working key, and where the car is parked. There's more on Nissan programming in general on our Nissan key page.

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Reviewed by David, Owner & Lead Technician, Wilshire Lock & Key — in the locksmith trade since 1987.

Last updated 2026-10-11.

2012 Nissan Pathfinder key replacement

2012 Nissan Pathfinder: key facts

Same key system as the 2005–2012 Pathfinder

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