Is your 2000 Nissan Xterra Key Fob malfunctioning, or did you recently purchase a new remote and need to program it? You might be surprised to learn that programming a new key fob for your 2000 Nissan Xterra can often be done right in your driveway without any special tools or a trip to the dealership. This guide will walk you through the process, step-by-step, based on the official Nissan service manual procedures for the 2000 Nissan Xterra and similar models. Whether you’re adding a spare or replacing a lost remote, follow these instructions to get your keyless entry system up and running smoothly.
Programming Procedure for Your 2000 Nissan Xterra Key Fob
This initial procedure will program your first key fob to your 2000 Nissan Xterra. Make sure you have all the remotes you intend to use with your vehicle ready, as you can program up to four remotes in total during this session.
Step A: Prepare Your Vehicle
Begin by getting inside your 2000 Nissan Xterra. Ensure all doors are completely closed. Then, using the power door lock switch located on the driver’s side door, lock all the doors. This is a crucial first step to initiate the programming sequence.
Step B: Ignition Key Cycling
This step requires a rhythmic action. Insert your ignition key into the ignition cylinder and remove it completely. Repeat this insert and remove cycle more than six times, but less than ten times, within a ten-second period. Aim for a pace of approximately one insertion and removal per second. It’s important to ensure the key is fully removed from the ignition cylinder each time. Avoid rushing this process to ensure the system recognizes the programming initiation.
Step C: Turn Ignition to “ACC”
After completing the key cycling, turn the ignition key to the “ACC” (Accessory) position. Crucially, leave the key in the “ACC” position for the remainder of the programming process. Do not start the engine.
Step D: Activate the Remote
Take one of your key fobs for your 2000 Nissan Xterra and press any button on it just one time. It’s vital to only press the button once during this step. Multiple presses can disrupt the programming sequence and prevent successful programming.
Alt text: A 2000 Nissan Xterra key fob with lock, unlock, and panic buttons, illustrating the type of remote being programmed in the guide.
Upon successful programming of the key fob, the hazard warning lights on your 2000 Nissan Xterra should flash twice. This visual confirmation indicates that the vehicle has recognized the signal from the key fob and the programming was successful.
Step E: Proceed Based on Number of Remotes
If you are only programming a single key fob, proceed directly to section “3. End Programming” below. If you need to program additional remotes, continue to the next section, “2. Programming Additional Remote Controllers.”
Programming Additional Remote Controllers for Your 2000 Nissan Xterra (Optional – Up to 4 Remotes)
If you have more than one key fob to program for your 2000 Nissan Xterra, follow these steps immediately after successfully programming the first remote. You can program up to a maximum of four remotes for your vehicle.
Step 2A: Remain in the Vehicle
Stay inside your Nissan Xterra after completing the programming of the first key fob. Do not remove the key from the “ACC” position and keep the doors closed.
Step 2B: Lock and Unlock Doors
Using the driver’s side power door lock-unlock switch, first unlock all doors and then immediately lock them again. This action prepares the system to accept programming for the next remote.
Step 2C: Activate Additional Remotes
Take the next key fob you want to program and press any button on it one time. Again, ensure you press the button only once. Just like with the first remote, pressing the button more than once can interrupt the process.
Upon successful programming, the hazard warning lights will flash twice, confirming that the additional key fob is now programmed to your 2000 Nissan Xterra. Repeat steps 2A through 2C for each additional remote you wish to program, up to a maximum of four.
End Programming and Verify Operation of Your 2000 Nissan Xterra Key Fobs
Once you have programmed all desired key fobs, complete the programming sequence with these final steps.
Step 3A: Remove Key from Ignition
Turn the ignition off and remove the key from the ignition cylinder.
Step 3B: Unlock Doors and Open Driver’s Door
Use the power door lock-unlock switch on the driver’s door to unlock all the doors. Then, open the driver’s side door. This action signals the system to finalize the programming sequence.
Step 3C: Test All Key Fobs
Finally, test each of your programmed key fobs to ensure they are working correctly. Use each remote to lock and unlock the doors of your 2000 Nissan Xterra and verify that the keyless entry system responds as expected.
By following these instructions carefully, you should be able to successfully program your 2000 Nissan Xterra key fob and regain full control of your keyless entry system. Enjoy the convenience of your working remote!
