Renault Key Replacement
Many Renault owners appreciate the additional peace of mind a spare card or key can bring. If you've lost your sole card or key, it's worthwhile to try getting it replaced by your Renault dealer.
However, it is usually costly and time-consuming. Contacting a professional auto locksmith is an alternative.
Keys that are chipped Keys
Transponder chips can be present in modern vehicles. This is an excellent anti-theft measure as it means that only the key that has the correct information can start your vehicle.
When you turn your key into the ignition, the chip sends an electrical signal to the car's ECU and it then compares the digital serial number on the chip with the one stored in the vehicle. If they are compatible, the immobilizer will be disengaged and the car will start. If the key does not contain the right serial number then it will be ignored by the ECU.
It is possible to determine whether your key is equipped with a chip by looking carefully. The hole in the head of the key is often offset to one side. This is to accommodate a microchip. Keys of earlier times had the chip located in the middle of the head of the key. You can also use a transponder scanner to read the data from the chip.
Renault keys that have transponder chips require specific equipment for copying. This is different from older keys made of metal, which could be copied by any locksmith. The technician will need to use a specific programming method to ensure that the copied key will function inside your car.
Some keys, such as GM's Vehicle Anti Theft System (VATS) keys, have simpler chips that are numbered 1 to 15. The original key can be copied by using the V.A.T.S. decoder that will identify the resistor. A blank key that has the same resistor can then be selected from the key rack. The instructions in the vehicle manual can be used to program this type of key without the need for any special equipment.
If you need a chipped key, contact Beishir Lock and Security for an efficient, prompt and competitive service. We can program a new chipped key quickly, efficiently and at a fraction of the cost that a car dealer charges. We offer up front prices so you are aware of what to expect.
Key Cards
Renault key cards allow drivers to control their vehicles remotely without touching the ignition. They can also unlock doors, turn on the horn, and turn off the lights. This is a feature that is popular that lets car owners stop thieves from entering their vehicles, or set off the alarm if they wish to attract the attention of. Unfortunately, these cards can be a pain in the neck if they are stolen or lost, which is why it is essential to have them replaced as soon as you can. A locksmith can do this quickly and cheaply and at only a fraction of the cost that a dealership charges.
The key card is distinct in appearance and works in the exact way as a chipped key, with the difference that the driver is able to access their vehicle without opening the door lock. There are numerous card systems. Each one has its own pros and cons. Magnetic Stripe is the most common and have an black stripe on them which is swiped over the reader. Radio Frequency cards are similar to magstripes however, they can only be used for a short distance, usually under 10 cms. Hole Punch - these are on their way out however they were extremely popular in years past, where unique combinations of holes were punched to generate a hole punch code that was used to grant access to.
Based on the type of Renault keycard you are using, it may be easier to use or more difficult to use. For instance, some cards include a button that can be hit to start the engine, or they may have a display that displays an on-board diagnostics (OBD) report. In some instances, these screens are accessible remotely through an app on the smartphone.
Most of the time, these cards come with security measures that are in place to stop the keys being reprogrammed to work with a different vehicle. This is to protect the owner of the car and the dealership from thefts and other issues. However, there are ways around it. Many locksmiths have access a huge supply of new Renault key cards that can be programmed to an individual's specific vehicle for less than the cost that a dealer would charge.
Transponder Chips
Modern Renault keys come with transponder (also known as a "chip-key"). The chip is an electronic micro-circuit that communicates with your car's ECU to unlock the doors and start the engine. When the car's key is placed in the ignition the antenna ring that is on the ignition sends out an impulsive radio frequency energy, which gets to the transponder chip. The chip emits a signal containing an unique code. The code is read by the ECU to determine whether the key is valid and is able to operate the vehicle. This reduces the risk of car theft since keys aren't just a simple flat metal key that is easily copied however, they are an additional layer of security to prevent unauthorised access to the vehicle.
Older cars without transponder chips were extremely easy to duplicate, and car thieves could easily rob vehicles. Since the majority of cars built after 1995 are equipped with a transponder, this type crime is less frequent. This is because the microchip in the car is linked to a specific vehicle and can only be activated when it is being used with the correct key. If someone tries to start your car using a transponder key that isn't programmed with the car you own and the ECU won't recognize it and will refuse to turn on.
If you're looking to get an additional transponder chip added to the existing key, a locksmith could usually do this fairly quickly. A locksmith will make use of special equipment to duplicate the key that you have and then add the transponder chip. The cost of this service is contingent on the model, year and make of your vehicle.
A replacement transponder will cost more than a standard flat metal key, but it will cost less than other kinds of replacement keys, like smart keys or key fob. Keys of other kinds offer more functionality and security than a regular metal key, and therefore tend to be more expensive to replace.
Immobilisers
Immobilisers for your car are a crucial element of security for your vehicle. They safeguard your Renault from theft by preventing it from being started with the wrong key. Since renault zoe key cover TheKeyLab , immobilisers are required for all new automobiles in the UK. However, many older vehicles have them installed. These devices can assist you to increase the security of your car and can even reduce your insurance costs.
The first automotive immobilisers appeared in 1992, and shortly after most luxury automakers began installing them. They are designed to stop the engine from running if the correct key isn't present or when the transponder chip inside the fob is not recognised by the electronic control unit (ECU).
When you connect your smart keys to your vehicle, they transmit an encoded code to the ECU that must match with the code in order for the engine to start. If the codes don't match the ECU disables a number of key car components like the starter motor and fuel system.
If you have an older Renault key that doesn't have the security feature, you can buy another key to get this extra layer of protection. It is crucial to make sure the new key is Thatcham-approved and programmed to fit your vehicle.
Some thieves with a keen eye for technology have come up with ways to get around the factory-installed anti-immobilisers. These methods are based on devices that copy pin codes generated by your keys, and then transmit them to the ECU to fool it into thinking your key is in the vehicle. This technique is referred to as relay theft and is a common issue for those who own modern day keyless entry and start-up vehicles.
You can stop this from happening by making sure that your smart key has been properly programmed to work with your vehicle and keeping it away from people who might be suspicious. It is not a good idea to try to reprogramme an existing smart key that was programmed for another vehicle. Instead, you should seek out professional help. Tony's Locksmith can program fresh Renault keys for your vehicle at a reasonable price.