Renault Key Replacement
Many Renault owners appreciate the added peace of mind that a spare card or key can bring. If you've lost your only key or card it is worth attempting to get it replaced by your Renault dealer.
This can be lengthy and costly. Contacting a professional auto-locksmith is an alternative.
Keys that are chipped Keys
Transponder chips are usually found in modern cars. This is a great anti-theft measure as it means that only the key that contains the correct information will start your car.
When you turn your key into the ignition the chip transmits a signal to the car's ECU and it then examines the serial number that is stored on the chip with the one stored in the vehicle. If they are compatible, the immobilizer will stop and the car will begin. The ECU will ignore the key if it doesn't have the correct serial number.
You can sometimes tell the presence of chip by looking at it closely, the hole in the key's head 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 check the chip using a transponder scanner, which will read the data on the chip and display it on the screen.
Renault keys that have transponder chips require special equipment for copying. This is unlike older metal keys, which could be copied by any locksmith. The technician must use a specific programming method to ensure that the copied key works in your car.
Some cars like GM's VATS (Vehicle Anti Theft System) keys come with simpler chips that are number ranging from 1 to 15. The original key can be copied by using an V.A.T.S. decoder which can identify the resistor. A blank key with the same resistor value can then be picked from the key rack. This type of key can also be programmed without specialized equipment if you follow the instructions in the manual for the vehicle.
If you need a chipped key then call Beishir Lock and Security for an efficient, prompt and competitive service. We can program your new chipped key quickly and efficiently for less than what the car dealer charges. We provide upfront prices so you know exactly what to expect.
Key Cards
Renault key cards allow drivers control their vehicles from afar without touching the ignition. They also allow unlocking doors, turn on the horn and turn on the light. This is a feature that is popular that lets car owners deter thieves, or even turn on the alarm if they wish to attract the attention of. However, these cards can be painful to use when they're stolen or lost, which is why it is essential to have them replaced as quickly as you can. A locksmith can do this swiftly and easily, and at only a fraction of the cost that a dealership charges.
The key card is distinctive in its appearance and functions in the same way as a chipped keys, with the exception that the driver can access their vehicle without having to open the door lock. There are several different types of card systems, each having their own pros and cons. Magnetic Stripe - these are the most commonly used cards, and have a black strip on them that is swiped downwards on the reader to grant access. Radio Frequency is like magstripe cards, but operate within an extremely short distance, typically less than 10 centimeters. Hole Punch - these are on their way out however they were extremely popular in years in the past, when unique combinations of holes were punched in order to create an identifier for the hole which was used to allow access.
Depending on the kind of Renault key card, it may have various features that can make it easier or more difficult to use. Some key cards have buttons to start the car, whereas others have a screen showing an on-board diagnosis (OBD). In certain instances, these screens can be accessed remotely via an app on a smartphone.
Often, these key cards are protected by security measures that are put in place to avoid the keys being reprogrammed to work with a different vehicle. This is to protect the owner of the car, as well as the dealership, from potential thefts and other issues. Despite this, there are still ways around it. Many locksmiths have a large number of brand new Renault key cards which can be programmed to an individual's vehicle at only a fraction of the price a dealer would charge.
Transponder Chips
All modern Renault keys have a transponder chip (sometimes called"chip key" or "chip key") included. This chip is a micro-circuit which communicates with the ECU of your car to open doors and begin the motor. When the car's key is placed in the ignition, the antenna ring at the ignition emits an impulsive radio frequency energy, which is received by the transponder chip. The chip then sends back a signal that has a unique code. The code is then read by the ECU to determine whether the key is valid and should be allowed to operate the vehicle. This reduces the risk of the risk of theft from cars since keys aren't just a basic flat metal key that can be copied easily, but rather have an additional layer of security that prevents unauthorised access to the vehicle.
Older cars with no transponder chips were extremely easy to duplicate, and car thieves could easily rob vehicles. Since most cars manufactured after 1995 are equipped with transponders, this type of crime is not as common. This is because the microchip in a car can only be activated with the appropriate key. It is unique to the vehicle. If someone attempts to start your car with a transponder which hasn't been programmed specifically for your vehicle, your ECU will not recognize it and won't turn on.
If you require a new transponder chip added to the existing key, a locksmith will typically do it quickly. A locksmith will use special equipment to duplicate the key that you have and then insert the transponder chip. The cost of this service will vary based on the year, make and model of your vehicle.
TheKeyLab is more than a regular flat metal key but less than other types of replacement keys, such as smart keys or a key fob. Keys of other kinds provide more security and functionality compared to a regular metal key, which is why they are more expensive to replace.
Immobilisers
Car immobilisers are a vital part of your vehicle security. They protect your Renault against theft by preventing it from being opened with the wrong key. Since 1998, immobilisers are required for all new cars in the UK. However, many older cars have them. These devices can enhance your overall security and may even help reduce your insurance costs.
The first automotive immobilisers were introduced in 1992, and the majority of luxury automakers included them into their vehicles soon after. They are designed to stop the engine from starting if the correct key isn't available or the transponder chip in the fob isn't recognized by the electronic controller unit (ECU).
When you connect the smart key to your vehicle, it will send an electronic code to your ECU. The code you receive must match the code that allows the engine to be turned on. If the codes don't match the ECU disables a number of key car components like the starter motor and the fuel system.
If you have an older Renault key that does not have the security feature, you can buy a replacement to get this additional layer of security. It is essential to ensure that the new key is Thatcham-approved and programmed to work with your car.
Some thieves with a keen eye for technology have come up with methods to evade the factory-installed anti-immobilisers. These tricks involve using devices that can duplicate the pin code from your key, and then transmit it to the ECU to trick it into believing that your key is in the vehicle. This method, known as relay theft, is a concern for those who own keyless entry vehicles.
You can stop this from happening by ensuring that your smart key has been properly programmed to work with your vehicle, and keeping it away from suspicious people. You should never try to reprogram a smart lock that has been programmed to work with another vehicle and it is recommended to seek help from a professional when this happens. Tony's Locksmith can program fresh Renault keys for your vehicle at a reasonable price.