AutoCodes – Generic – P1615

P1615 Code - Difference of Key

Quick Answer

An immobilizer is an electronic device fitted to an automobile which prevents the engine from running unless the correct key is present. Common causes include Faulty or not programmed ignition key, Faulty IMMU, Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM). Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: P1615 indicates Difference of Key.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty or not programmed ignition key, Faulty IMMU, Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM).
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

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Code Popularity 37,688

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Aug 31, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
Comments
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Code P1615 Description

An immobilizer is an electronic device fitted to an automobile which prevents the engine from running unless the correct key is present. This prevents the car from being hotwired after entry has been achieved.
The microcircuit inside the key is activated by a small electromagnetic field which induces current to flow inside the key body, which in turn broadcasts a unique binary code which is read by the automobile's Engine Control Module (ECM). When the ECM determines that the coded key is both current and valid, the ECM activates the fuel-injection sequence.
The immobilizer function of the Infiniti Vehicle Immobilizer System (IVIS) or Nissan Anti-Theft System (NATS) consists of the following:
- NATS ignition key
- NATS antenna amp. located in the ignition key cylinder
- Body control module (BCM) or (IMMU)
- Engine Control Module (ECM)
- Security indicator lamp

OBDII Code P1615 - Difference of Key - AutoCodes.com — P1615 Code - Difference of Key

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1615?

Faulty or not programmed ignition key
Faulty IMMU
Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P1615?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P1615 code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

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Information for Specific Makes

P1615 Audi — Engine Oil Temperature Sensor Range / Performance Problem
P1615 Buick — Loss Of VTD Serial Data
P1615 Cadillac — Loss Of VTD Serial Data
P1615 Chevrolet — Loss Of VTD Serial Data
P1615 GMC — Loss Of VTD Serial Data
P1615 Hyundai — ETS - ECM Malfunction
P1615 Infiniti — Difference of Key
P1615 Nissan — NVIS Difference of Key
P1615 Volkswagen — Engine Oil Temperature Sensor Range / Performance Problem

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.