Nissan: Cell Phones Can Alter the I-Key

NASHVILLE, Tenn. May 23, 2007; The AP reported that Nissan said that cell phones rub some of Nissan's "intelligent keys" the wrong way, the automaker is warning car owners. Complaints about some cell phones erasing Nissan's I-keys for the 2007 Altima sedan and 2007 Infiniti G35 have the automaker advising customers to keep cell phones and the plastic fobs containing the starters "at least 1 inch apart at all times."

A statement released Wednesday by Nissan North America Inc. says some cell phones, if allowed to touch the I-Key while sending or receiving a call, may alter it's electronic code.

"When this happens the I-Key will not start the vehicle and cannot be reprogrammed," the statement said.

Nissan said it is developing a modified I-Key to prevent the problem and will provide customers with the new keys in the early fall.

Nissan did not return telephone messages seeking additional comment.

Brent Adams, vice president and general manager at Action Nissan in Nashville, said the problem involves only a "certain type of phone and this particular service," which he declined to specify.

He described the number of complaints as "minute."

Ken Hunt, owner of Hunt Nissan in Chattanooga, said the dealership was including a warning in the vehicle packet for purchasers. He said no retail customers have complained.

"I have ordered extra keys in case," Hunt said.