P1610 on 2003-2009 Nissan 350Z — NATS Lock Mode (Nissan)
1 vehicles · 1 makes
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Nissan 350Z · 2003–2009
The immobilizer checks the registered ignition key before permitting a start. A NATS lock-mode code and a key-read code describe different stages of that check, not a confirmed failed part. Interference, key identification and antenna-circuit faults need to be distinguished. A mechanical key-turning problem is a separate branch.
Common Symptoms
- Engine will not start with a registered key
- Security indicator remains on with ignition ON
- Intermittent key-authentication no-start
How to Diagnose
- 1
Safety: Keep owner checks outside the steering-column wiring. Do not force a key or probe airbag connectors. Column and electrical testing belongs with a qualified technician using the exact-year Nissan precautions.
source - 2
Note whether the key turns, whether the engine cranks, and the ignition position when the security light is on. — Observation and your owner’s manual
Good: Blinking with the ignition OFF, LOCK or ACC is normal; it is not a failed-part diagnosis.
If not: If the key will not turn, arrange a separate key/lock inspection. If it turns but the engine will not start, continue below.
source - 3
Separate other transponder keys and toll/payment tags from the ignition key. Follow the interference-restart instructions in your vehicle’s owner’s manual and note whether the registered spare behaves differently. — Registered ignition key and registered spare, if available
Good: Starting after removing interference can avoid an unnecessary parts purchase.
If not: If neither key starts the engine, stop repeated attempts and arrange diagnosis. That result alone does not prove an antenna or control-unit failure.
source - 4
Technician: save the complete fault report and identify which module reports each fault before clearing anything. Confirm the exact-year NATS diagnostic result. — Nissan CONSULT or confirmed equivalent ECM and NATS coverage
Good: P1610 identifies lock mode; P1614 identifies a key-ID reception problem. Neither names the part to buy.
If not: If other faults are present, follow their appropriate diagnostic branches rather than assuming every no-start is caused by the antenna.
source - 5
Technician: on a 2005-2008 no-start with P1610 as the only NATS code, follow NTB10-107 battery voltage/state-of-charge testing and service the battery if required. An unloaded voltage reading alone can miss the problem. Confirm starting after the directed fault clearing. Other NATS codes or an unresolved no-start need the applicable factory diagnosis. The bulletin says that if the security indicator is off during or after cranking, follow non-NATS no-start diagnosis instead of replacing NATS components. — Nissan-specified GR-8 battery test/service equipment or validated applicable equivalent
source - 6
Technician: for confirmed P1610, use the factory lock-mode recovery procedure with a registered key. For confirmed P1614, inspect antenna installation and follow the key-read circuit diagnosis. — Exact-year Nissan service information
Good: The lock-mode branch and key-read branch are separate; successful starting after recovery is recorded rather than treated as proof of a failed module.
If not: If starting does not recover, continue the exact factory diagnostic path. Do not buy a steering lock from P1610 or P1614 alone.
source - 7
Technician: verify antenna installation, power, signal and ground using the procedure matching the year and connector. Repair a confirmed connector or wiring fault, or replace the component isolated by the completed tests. — Factory wiring diagram and specified electrical test equipment
Good: A measured circuit fault is distinguished from a key or module fault. This summary does not substitute generic battery-voltage or coil-resistance values for the factory checks.
If not: If results or diagram labels are unclear, obtain the correct service information before a replacement decision. Do not guess from a code or a failed spare-key attempt.
source - 8
After the confirmed repair, complete any required key registration or control-unit initialization and verify starting with the owner’s registered keys. Bring all keys to the service visit. — Nissan-capable registration equipment when the repair requires it
Good: Starting is restored and the relevant fault does not recur during verification.
If not: If it returns, preserve the new fault report and continue diagnosis; do not treat code clearing as a repair.
source
How to Fix
First rule out key interference using the owner’s manual. Have an authorized dealer or qualified Nissan specialist distinguish P1610 lock mode from P1614 key-read failure. On 2005-2008 vehicles with P1610 as the only NATS code, check the battery under NTB10-107 before immobilizer parts diagnosis. Otherwise follow the matching key, antenna and circuit tests. Repair the confirmed fault and perform registration only when required, then verify starting. Bring all keys. A key that will not turn needs a separate mechanical inspection.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Interstate MTP-35 Group 35 flooded starting batteryFits 2005-2008 · 3.5LCross-refInterstate MTP-35$224.95
2005-2008 Nissan 350Z 3.5L, only if NTB10-107 testing establishes replacement is required; confirm original tray, hold-down and polarity.
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Sources for this issue (3)
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P1610 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P1610 mean?
P1610 stands for "NATS Lock Mode (Nissan)." In the Nissan 350Z service information reviewed here, P1610 identifies immobilizer lock mode after unsuccessful start authorization. It does not identify a failed steering lock, key reader or control unit. Confirm the exact vehicle and companion faults with Nissan-capable diagnostics. For 2005–2008 vehicles with P1610 as the only NATS fault, bulletin NTB10-107 calls for battery testing and service before further immobilizer diagnosis. A mechanical key-turning problem is a separate check; other manufacturers may use this code differently.
What are the most common causes of P1610?
The most common causes of P1610 are: Lock mode after unsuccessful start authorization, Low cranking voltage in the 2005–2008 P1610-only bulletin branch, An unregistered key or unresolved key-authentication fault, An unresolved control-unit or communication fault requiring the exact-year diagnostic procedure. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P1610?
Repair costs vary widely depending on the root cause and vehicle.
Which vehicles are affected by P1610?
Au7o has documented P1610 across 1 vehicle models from 1 manufacturers: Nissan.
Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.