Renault Key Replacement
Many Renault owners appreciate the additional security that a spare card or key can bring. If you've lost your sole key or card it is worthwhile to try getting it replaced by your Renault dealer.
This can be time-consuming and expensive. Contacting a professional auto-locksmith is an alternative.
Keys with chips Keys
Transponder chips can be present in modern vehicles. This is an excellent anti-theft measure, as only the key with the right information can be used to start your car.
When you turn the key in the ignition the chip sends a signal to your car's ECU. This then checks the serial numbers on the chip to the ones in the vehicle. If they are compatible, the immobilizer will stop and the car will begin. If the key does not have the right serial number then it will simply be ignored by the ECU.
It is possible to tell the presence of chip by looking carefully. The hole in the head of the key is often offset to one side. This is because it can accommodate a microchip. Earlier keys used to have the chip located in the middle of the head of the key. You can also verify this by using a transponder scanner, which will read the data on the chip and display it on the screen.
Unlike older metal keys that can be copied by any locksmith, the Renault key with transponder chips will require special equipment to copy. The technician must employ a specific programming method to ensure that the cloned key works in your car.
Some keys, like GM's Vehicle Anti Theft System (VATS) keys, have simpler chips that are numbered from 1 to 15. The original key can be copied by using a V.A.T.S. decoder which can identify the resistor. A blank key with the same value of resistor can then be selected from the key rack. The instructions in the vehicle manual can be used to program this kind of key without any special equipment.
Beishir Lock and Security offers a professional, fast and competitive service for those in need of a key with a chip. We can program a brand new chipped key quickly efficiently and at less than the price charged by a car dealer. We will give you an upfront price so you are aware of what to expect.
Key Cards
Renault key cards allow drivers control their cars remotely without touching the ignition. The Key Lab allow unlocking doors, turn on the horn and light. This feature is popular because it allows car owners to deter theft or turn on the alarm to draw attention. Unfortunately, these cards can be painful to use if they are stolen or lost, which is why it is important to have them replaced as soon as possible. Locksmiths can replace the card quickly and cheaply for a fraction of the cost as a dealership.
The key card is distinctive in appearance and works in the exact way as a chipped key, with the exception that the driver can access their vehicle without opening the door lock. There are many different card systems. Each one has its own pros and cons. Magnetic Stripe: These are the most well-known and feature an black stripe on them, which is swiped over the reader. Radio Frequency is similar to the magstripe cards, but operate within the confines of a small distance, typically less than 10 centimeters. Hole Punch - these are on their way out however they were extremely popular in the in the past, when unique combinations of holes were punched to generate an identifier for the hole that was used to grant access.
Depending on the kind of Renault key card, it could come with various features that make it easier or more difficult to use. Some cards have a button to start the car, while others display an on-board diagnosis (OBD). In some instances the screens can be accessed remotely using an app on smartphones.
Key cards are often equipped with special security features to prevent them from being programmed for another car. This is to protect the owner of the car and the dealership from thefts and other issues. However, there are still ways around it. Locksmiths can access an extensive supply of fresh Renault key cards that can be programmed to a specific vehicle for only a fraction of the cost that dealers charge.
Transponder Chips
Modern Renault keys have transponder chips (sometimes called a "chip key") included. This chip is a micro-circuit which communicates with the ECU of your car to unlock doors and to start the motor. When your car key is put into the ignition the antenna ring that is on the ignition sends out an explosion of radio frequency energy, which gets to the transponder chip. The chip emits the signal, which contains the unique code. This code is read by the ECU to determine whether the key is valid and therefore able to operate the vehicle. This helps to reduce car theft as the keys aren't just a simple flat metal key that is easily copied, but rather have an additional layer of security that prevents unauthorised access to the vehicle.
The older vehicles without a transponder chip were easy to copy and thieves could easily take them. However, since the majority of cars built after 1995 have a transponder system installed, this kind of crime has become much less common. This is because the microchip in a car is only activated with the appropriate key. It is unique to the car. If someone attempts to start your car with a transponder key that hasn't been programmed to work with the car you own, the ECU will not recognise it and refuse to turn on.
Locksmiths can add a transponder chip to an existing key quickly. A locksmith will employ an equipment that can clone an existing key for your vehicle and then add the chip. The cost of this service will depend on the year, model and model of your car.
A replacement transponder will cost more than a standard flat metal key but less than other kinds of replacement keys, such as a smart key or key fob. These keys provide more security and functionality compared to a regular metal key, and therefore are more expensive to replace.
Immobilisers
Immobilisers for your car are an important part of security for your vehicle. They prevent your Renault from being started with the wrong key, thereby safeguarding your vehicle from theft. Immobilisers have been required on all new cars in the UK since 1998, however some older vehicles also have them fitted. These devices are a great way to enhance your overall security and can even lower the cost of insurance.
The first automobile immobilisers were introduced in 1992, and shortly after that, many automobile manufacturers began to install them. They are designed to stop the engine from running when the correct key isn't present or the transponder chip that is on the fob doesn't get recognised by the electronic controller unit (ECU).
When you connect the smart key to your vehicle, it transmits a code to your ECU. The code you receive must match the code that allows the engine to start. If the codes aren't compatible, the ECU will disable several key car components like the starter motor as well as the fuel system.
If you own an older Renault key without the security feature, then you can purchase a replacement and get this extra layer protection. It is important that you make sure the new key is Thatcham-approved and programmed to work with your car.
A few thieves with a technological edge have devised methods to bypass factory-fitted immobilisers. These tricks involve using devices that can copy the pin code from your key and then broadcast it to the ECU to fool it into believing that your key is there. This technique is referred to as relay theft and is a frequent issue for those who own modern-day keyless entry and start-up vehicles.
You can avoid this by ensuring that your smart key is properly programmed to work with your vehicle and keeping it from unauthorized persons. You should never try to reprogram a key that has already been programmed to work on another vehicle, and you should always seek professional help when this happens. Tony's Locksmith has access to a stock of fresh Renault keys that can be programmed to your specific vehicle at a low cost.