2017 Nissan Pathfinder Key Replacement

The 2017–2020 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.

2017 Nissan Pathfinder: key facts

Key type: Smart / proximity key
Push-to-start: Yes
Transponder chip: 4A (Hitag AES)
Programming: OBD
All keys lost: We can originate new keys on site

IC-204 4A/Hitag-AES fob shared with Murano and Titan of the same era.

What kind of key does a 2017 Pathfinder use?

The 2017 Pathfinder came with a smart proximity key. You keep the fob in a pocket or bag, the car senses it, and you start the engine with the push-button. There is no key to turn in the ignition.

Inside the fob is a 4A chip, the Hitag AES family. That is a encrypted chip, and the car will only start when the fob and the vehicle's computer agree with each other. A fob that merely looks right will not start the car until it has been programmed to it.

Every one of these fobs also carries a mechanical backup key. It is a small blade that slides out of the fob and works the driver's door if the fob battery is dead or the fob stops responding. Keep track of it, because it is easy to lose when the fob gets swapped or repaired.

One detail worth knowing: this fob, listed as IC-204, is shared with the Murano and Titan of the same era. That helps with sourcing, but it does not mean any fob from those vehicles will pair. Matching the exact numbers matters, which we cover below.

What are the common problems with these fobs?

Three problems come up most often on this setup, and two of them do not need a new key at all.

A dead fob battery. The dash shows a 'key not detected' message. As a backup, hold the fob right against the start button and press it. The car can read the chip at close range even when the battery is weak. Replace the battery soon after.
Water-damaged or crushed fobs. A fob that went through the wash or got run over in a driveway often stops working altogether, and then it is a replacement job.
Aftermarket fobs that will not pair. If the FCC ID and IC numbers on a cheaper online fob do not match the original, it will fail to program, no matter who tries. Check those numbers before you buy anything.

Duplicate key or all keys lost: what is different?

If you still have a working fob, making another is the simpler job. The original key is needed for duplication on this setup, so bring it with you. We cut or supply the new fob, then program it to the Pathfinder through the OBD port. Programming does not call for NASTF SDRM access on this vehicle.

If every key is gone, it is still possible. We can create a new key without any original on hand, which is a bigger job than a duplicate because the car has to be set up to accept a new fob from scratch.

Either way, we can come to you with a mobile van or you can bring the Pathfinder to our storefront at 10740 Wilshire Blvd in Westwood. For an all-keys-lost car that cannot be driven, the van is usually the easier route.

Call (213) 577-1366 and tell us the year, model, and whether you have any working fob.
We confirm the details by VIN and check the numbers on any fob you already have.
We cut the backup blade as needed and program the fob to the car through the OBD port.
You test starting the vehicle, opening the doors, and using the backup button method before we leave.

Locked out or need a locksmith now?

We answer around the clock, every day of the year.

Call (213) 577-1366

What affects the price of a 2017 Pathfinder key?

We do not quote numbers on a web page, because the real figure depends on your situation. These are the things that move it:

Whether you have a working fob to copy or all keys are lost.
How many fobs you need programmed at once.
Whether you supply the fob or we do, and whether it is the correct original-style part.
Whether the mechanical backup key also needs cutting.
Where the car is, and whether we travel to you or you come to the storefront.

What we confirm by VIN

The data we hold for this model year is verified, but fob numbers and compatibility can differ between trim levels and build dates. So we confirm by VIN and by looking at the fob in person before ordering or programming anything. If something on your car does not match what we expect, we will tell you plainly instead of guessing.

For the broader picture, see our Nissan Pathfinder key guide or the wider Nissan car key page. If you are comparing other vehicles, the main car keys overview covers them. To send details, use the contact page.

Wilshire Lock & Key has served Los Angeles since 1987, with a storefront and mobile vans run as one company, so there is no dispatcher passing your call to a stranger. David oversees the work. Our line, (213) 577-1366, is answered around the clock.

Frequently asked questions

Can you make a 2017 Pathfinder key if I lost every key?

Yes. All keys lost is possible on this vehicle. It takes more work than copying a fob, but we can program a new one through the OBD port.

My Pathfinder says 'key not detected.' Do I need a new fob?

Not necessarily. A dead battery is the usual cause. Hold the fob against the start button and try starting the car. If that works, replace the battery. If the fob is damaged, it needs replacing.

Do I need the original key to get a duplicate?

Yes, for duplication on this setup the original key is needed. If you have none left, that is an all-keys-lost job, which is still doable.

Can I buy a fob online and have you program it?

Possibly, but check first. If the FCC ID and IC numbers do not match the original fob, it will not pair. Call us with the numbers and we will tell you if it is worth buying.

Does the Pathfinder have a regular key inside the fob?

Yes. A mechanical backup key slides out of the fob and opens the driver's door when the fob will not respond.

Is the 2017 Pathfinder fob the same as other Nissans?

The IC-204 fob is shared with the Murano and Titan of the same era. Sharing the part number does not remove the need to match and program it to your car, so we confirm by VIN.

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

Last updated 2026-10-11.