With the advancements in technology, keyless entry systems have become commonplace in modern vehicles. However, there may be situations where you find yourself without the convenience of your key fob or in possession of a manual key for an older Nissan Altima. In such scenarios, knowing how to start your vehicle using the manual key becomes essential. This guide will provide you with a step-by-step process on how to start a Nissan Altima with a manual key, ensuring a hassle-free driving experience.
Before proceeding, ensure that you have the correct manual key for your Nissan Altima. Insert the key into the ignition lock cylinder, which is typically located on the right side of the steering column. Turn the key to the “Accessory” position, which is usually the first notch from the “Off” position. This will power up the vehicle’s electrical systems, allowing you to use the radio, lights, and other accessories.
Next, depress the brake pedal firmly with your right foot. Simultaneously, turn the key to the “Start” position, which is typically the second notch from the “Accessory” position. Hold the key in this position for a few seconds, or until the engine starts. Once the engine is running, release the key and the brake pedal. Your Nissan Altima is now ready to drive. Remember to always use caution when starting your vehicle, especially in busy or unfamiliar environments.
Locate the Ignition Cylinder
Identifying the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition cylinder is typically located on the dashboard or steering column of your Nissan Altima. It’s usually a small, cylindrical-shaped device with a keyhole. In some models, the ignition cylinder may be hidden beneath a cover or panel. If you’re having trouble finding the ignition cylinder, consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual.
Accessing the Ignition Cylinder
Once you’ve located the ignition cylinder, you may need to remove a cover or panel to access it. Gently pry open the cover or panel using a flat-head screwdriver or your fingernails. Be careful not to damage any wires or components.
Confirming the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition cylinder typically has a keyhole on the front or side. If you see a keyhole, insert your key to confirm that it’s the correct cylinder. If the key fits and turns smoothly, then you’ve found the ignition cylinder.
| Nissan Altima Model Year | Ignition Cylinder Location |
|---|---|
| 2019-2023 | Steering column, right side |
| 2013-2018 | Dashboard, left side |
| 2007-2012 | Steering column, left side |
Insert the Key
To start your Nissan Altima with a manual key, you need to take the following steps:
- Ensure the car is in park or neutral and the parking brake is on.
- Insert the key into the ignition and turn it to the “ON” position.
- Press the brake pedal and hold it down.
- Turn the key to the “START” position and release it once the engine starts.
Key Position Diagram
Here is a diagram illustrating the key positions:
| Position | Function |
|---|---|
| LOCK | Locks the steering wheel and ignition. |
| ON | Powers on the car’s electrical systems. |
| START | Starts the engine. |
| ACC | Powers the car’s accessories, such as the radio and headlights. |
Turn the Key to the “Acc” Position
1. Locate the keyhole: On the Nissan Altima, the keyhole is typically located on the right side of the steering column, just below the dashboard.
2. Insert the key: Insert the physical key into the keyhole and ensure it is fully inserted.
3. Turn the key to the “Acc” position: This position is typically marked with an “Acc” or “Accessory” label on the ignition switch. To turn the key to this position, rotate it clockwise by one click.
The “Acc” position provides power to the vehicle’s electrical accessories, such as the radio, lights, and dashboard instruments, without starting the engine. It allows you to operate these features without consuming fuel or engaging the starter motor. The “Acc” position can also be used to charge mobile devices or other electronic devices using the vehicle’s USB ports or 12-volt power outlets.
Depress the Clutch Pedal
This is the most important step, as it prevents the car from starting accidentally while it’s in gear. The clutch pedal is typically located on the left side of the footwell, and it’s operated by the left foot. When you depress the clutch pedal fully, it disengages the transmission from the engine, preventing power from being transferred to the wheels. This allows you to start the car without having to worry about it lurching forward or backward.
1. Locate the clutch pedal.
The clutch pedal is usually located to the left of the brake pedal. It will be the pedal that is closest to the driver’s seat.
2. Depress the clutch pedal fully.
Use your left foot to depress the clutch pedal all the way to the floor. You should feel a slight resistance as you push the pedal down.
3. Hold the clutch pedal down.
Keep your left foot on the clutch pedal until you have started the car. Releasing the clutch pedal too soon can cause the car to stall.
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Tips for Depressing the Clutch Pedal |
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– Use your left foot to depress the clutch pedal. |
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– Depress the clutch pedal fully to the floor. |
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– Hold the clutch pedal down until you have started the car. |
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– If you release the clutch pedal too soon, the car will stall. |
Insert the Key into the Ignition
Locate the ignition switch on the steering column. It is typically found on the right-hand side. Insert the physical key into the ignition switch.
Turn the Steering Wheel
If the steering wheel is locked, turn it slightly to the left or right to release the lock.
Turn the Key to the “Accessory” Position
Turn the key one click clockwise to the “Accessory” position. This will provide power to accessories such as the radio and power windows without starting the engine.
Turn the Key to the “On” Position
Turn the key another click clockwise to the “On” position. This will provide power to the entire electrical system, including the dashboard lights and gauges.
Turn the Key to the “Start” Position
To start the engine, turn the key all the way clockwise to the “Start” position and hold it there for a few seconds, or until the engine starts.
Tips for Starting the Engine
- Make sure the transmission is in park or neutral.
- If the engine does not start immediately, release the key and wait a few seconds before trying again.
- If the engine still does not start, check the battery terminals to ensure they are clean and tightly connected.
Safety Precautions
- Never leave the key in the ignition when exiting the vehicle.
- Do not attempt to start the engine if the vehicle is in gear.
- Keep children away from the ignition switch.
Release the Clutch Pedal Once the Engine Starts
Once the engine is running smoothly, it’s time to release the clutch pedal. This should be done slowly and gradually to avoid jerking the car forward. Begin by lifting your foot off the pedal just slightly, while keeping your other foot on the brake pedal. As the clutch engages, you’ll feel the car start to move. Continue to release the clutch pedal as the car gathers speed, until the clutch is fully engaged and the engine is running smoothly. If you release the clutch pedal too quickly, the car may stall. If this happens, simply restart the car and try again.
Here’s a more detailed step-by-step guide to releasing the clutch pedal:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Shift the car into first gear. |
| 2 | Slowly release the clutch pedal while simultaneously pressing down on the gas pedal. |
| 3 | As the car starts to move, continue to release the clutch pedal and press down on the gas pedal to accelerate. |
| 4 | Once the car is in motion, fully release the clutch pedal and continue to drive as normal. |
Turn the Key to the “Run” Position
Once you have the key in the ignition and turned it to the “On” position, you will need to turn it further to the “Run” position. This is where the engine will actually start running. To do this, keep turning the key clockwise until you hear the engine start. Be sure to not turn the key too far, as this could damage the ignition. Once the engine is running, you can release the key and it will stay in the “Run” position.
Here are some additional tips for turning the key to the “Run” position:
– If the engine does not start immediately, do not keep turning the key. Wait a few seconds and try again.
– If the engine does not start after several attempts, there may be a problem with the ignition system. You should have the car towed to a mechanic to have it checked out.
– If the engine starts but then dies immediately, there may be a problem with the fuel system. You should also have the car towed to a mechanic to have it checked out.
If you have any difficulties starting your Nissan Altima with the manual key, please consult the owner’s manual or contact a qualified mechanic.
Remove the Key
Once you’ve located the manual keyhole, there are a few steps you need to take to remove the key:
- Insert the key into the keyhole. Make sure the key is fully inserted before turning it.
- Turn the key to the “Unlock” position. This is usually counterclockwise 90 degrees.
- Pull the key out of the keyhole. The key should come out easily once it’s in the “Unlock” position.
| Keyhole Location | |
|---|---|
| 2002-2006 Altima | Driver’s side door handle |
| 2007-2012 Altima | Driver’s side door handle |
| 2013-2018 Altima | Driver’s side door handle |
| 2019-2023 Altima | Driver’s side door handle |
Shift the Car into Gear
Once the key is in the ignition and turned to the “on” position, you need to shift the car into gear to start it. To do this, depress the clutch pedal all the way down with your left foot. Then, move the gear shift lever into the desired gear, typically first gear. Once the gear is engaged, slowly release the clutch pedal while simultaneously pressing down on the gas pedal with your right foot. This will engage the clutch and start the car.
Additional Tips for Starting a Nissan Altima with a Manual Key
Here are some additional tips for starting a Nissan Altima with a manual key:
- Make sure the car is in park or neutral before starting it.
- If the car does not start after a few attempts, check to make sure that the gear shift lever is fully engaged in gear.
- If the car still does not start, try turning the key to the “on” position for a few seconds before starting it. This will allow the fuel pump to prime the engine.
- If the car still does not start, you may need to have the battery checked or replaced.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Here are some common problems that you may encounter when starting a Nissan Altima with a manual key, along with some troubleshooting tips:
| Problem | Troubleshooting Tips |
|---|---|
| The car won’t start. | Check to make sure that the key is fully inserted into the ignition and turned to the “on” position. Also, check to make sure that the gear shift lever is fully engaged in gear. |
| The car starts but then stalls. | This could be caused by a number of factors, including a weak battery, a faulty starter motor, or a problem with the fuel system. |
| The car starts but does not idle smoothly. | This could be caused by a number of factors, including a dirty air filter, a faulty spark plug, or a problem with the ignition system. |
Drive Away
With the key in the ignition switch and turned to the “on” position, depress the brake pedal and shift the gear selector into “drive.” Release the brake pedal and slowly accelerate, allowing the vehicle to pick up speed gradually.
How to Start a Nissan Altima with a Manual Key
Starting a Nissan Altima with a manual key requires a few simple steps. First, locate the keyhole on the driver’s side door handle. Insert the key and turn it to the “unlock” position. This will unlock the door and allow you to open it.
Once inside the vehicle, locate the ignition on the steering column. Insert the key and turn it to the “on” position. This will activate the electrical system and allow you to start the engine.
To start the engine, depress the clutch pedal with your left foot. This will disengage the transmission from the engine. Now, turn the ignition key to the “start” position and hold it there until the engine starts.
Once the engine has started, release the clutch pedal slowly while simultaneously pressing the accelerator pedal. This will allow the transmission to engage and the vehicle to move forward.
