P1610
OBD-II Diagnostic Code
Severity: CriticalWhat it means
P1610 on Nissan/Infiniti means the NATS (Nissan Anti-Theft System) immobilizer has a fault.
The ECM cannot verify the key, preventing the engine from starting.
This usually requires key re-registration at a Nissan dealer.
Affected Models
- Nissan Altima
- Nissan Maxima
- Nissan Sentra
- Nissan Pathfinder
- Infiniti G35
- Infiniti Q50
Common Causes
- Key transponder not recognised
- NATS antenna ring around ignition faulty
- ECM lost key registration data
- Using a non-programmed spare key
- Battery disconnection reset the immobilizer
How to Fix It
-
Try the spare registered key.
If the spare works, the original key's transponder chip may have failed.
-
Check that the correct key is being used.
Non-chipped or aftermarket keys without the correct transponder will trigger P1610.
-
Have the keys re-registered at a Nissan dealer.
The dealer uses the CONSULT scanner to re-register keys to the ECM.
This is the most common fix for P1610.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is NATS?
NATS (Nissan Anti-Theft System) is Nissan's immobilizer.
It verifies the key's transponder chip before allowing the engine to start.
Can I bypass the immobilizer?
Not recommended.
The immobilizer is a security feature.
Bypassing it makes the vehicle easier to steal and may affect insurance.