(I searched, lots of intelligent key talk but found no answers to the questions below)

I only have one i-Key for my 2006 coupe. It works fine, and I'd like one or two more. eBay has these choices:
- New OEM Infiniti i-Key for ~$135
- Used OEM i-Key for ~$100
- Aftermarket Nissan/Infiniti FOB's for ~$10 (Not clear if these would work as i-Keys)

2 Questions:
- Can the $10 aftermarket key FOB's function as an i-Key?
- Could a used i-Key be programmed to my car?

Any other recommendations for an economical 2nd i-Key? Thanks.

 

The fob is not an intelligent key and it won't function as one.

Someone else will have to speak to the programming issue. There is also the manual key in the I-key -- a used key would not fit your lock, absent a remarkable coincidence. An OEM key will have a blank that can be cut to match your driver door key lock. Not sure if blanks are readily available as a separate item. I'd reach out to a full service automotive locksmith to get that question answered.

 

For your benefit I double-checked Intelligent-Key operation on my i-Key equipped car. It's a 2006 coupe with the smart-key ignition switch that turns, where the original key ignition switch is in regular key cars. First I removed the physical key from the FOB, left the FOB in the house, tried to lock/unlock, and start the car with the physical key in my pocket. As expected, zero response. Next I left the physical key in the house and with only the FOB in my pocket tried to lock/unlock and start the car. Everything worked as usual. Car opens, runs and drives with only the i-Key FOB.

Clearly the physical key is only a backup to unlock the door in case of a dead battery in your FOB or car. These are available separately, new at the dealer so no questions there.

The initial questions are for those that know about early i-Key equipped cars and procuring an extra i-Key *FOB*.

 

Yes, that squares with my 2006 coupe I-key fob manual key. So as you note, the question comes down to programming the new i-key to your car. I just didn't want you to be surprised with a used key that would have a manual key that didn't work.

I expect a locksmith could do the programming, but don't know for sure. Perhaps @seymore4 would have some insight on that....