Since 1996 Renault cars have been factory fitted with an immobiliser system that prevents the car from starting unless it receives the expected response from the key. Each Renault key will contain a transponder chip that is hidden in the head of the key. When the key is turned in the ignition the chips code is read by a coil that is found around the ignition barrel face. The signal is then passed to an immobiliser and then onto the ECU and permits the car to start. The immobiliser is sometimes a separate box and in other cars it is integrated into the body control module (BCM). Some early Renaults used an alternative immobiliser system that is deactivated via an infrared signal emitted from the keys remote fob. Renault key cards, whilst looking very different, work in a similar manor to the chipped keys. When the card is inserted into the dash the reader will detect the signal from the transponder chip inside the card.

“We have been providing a service for replacing Renault keys for nearly five years. In that time we have helped well over 500 Renault drivers that have lost or damaged their car keys. I was called out last week to assist a gentleman in Guildford that had his Renault Megane key card stolen whilst he was out in London. He did not have another key card so was unable to get into his car. He was very concerned and anxious about the thieves locating his car and steeling the vehicle. I explained how when we program a new Renault card into his megane the old key card would no longer start the vehicle or even open the doors if the buttons were pressed. He had been quoted over £200 by Renault and told it would take at least a week to get the replacement key for his Renault is from France. The best part of my job is being able to help customers like this – not only was I able to get hime back on the road the same day and secure his vehicle, I was able to save him £40.” Our London Renault locksmith