Blog entry by Shellie Beaudoin
Renault Key replacement renault megane key card
Many Renault owners appreciate the peace of mind an extra key or card can bring. If you've lost your only key or card it is worthwhile to try getting it replaced by your renault kangoo van replacement key dealer.
However, this is often time consuming and expensive. Another option is to call a professional auto locksmith.
Chipped Keys
If your car is a modern model, it will most likely have a transponder chip inside. This is a fantastic security measure as only a key with correct information can start your vehicle.
When you turn the key in the ignition the chip sends a signal to your car's ECU. The ECU then compares the digital serial numbers on the chip with the ones stored in the vehicle. If they match the immobilizer disengages and the car will begin. The ECU will ignore the key if it does not have the correct serial number.
If you examine the key, you can determine if it is equipped with a microchip. The hole in the head is usually offset to one side. This is in order to accommodate the microchip. The chip was situated in the middle of the head of the key on older keys. You can also verify this by using a transponder scanner, which will read the data stored on the chip and display it on the screen.
In contrast to older keys made of steel that could be copied by almost any locksmith however, a Renault key with transponder chips will require special equipment to copy. The technician must employ an exact programming method to ensure that the copied key will function in your vehicle.
Certain keys, like GM's Vehicle Anti Theft System (VATS) keys have smaller chips that are numbered from 1 through 15. These can be copied by placing the original key into a V.A.T.S decoder which will identify the resistor before selecting an empty key from the rack with the same resistor. The instructions in the manual for vehicles can be used to program this type of key without the need for any special equipment.
If you require a chipped key, contact Beishir Lock and Security for fast, professional and competitive service. We can program your new key quickly and efficiently at a fraction of what the car dealer charges. We will provide you with upfront pricing so you know exactly what you can expect.
Key Cards
Renault key cards let motorists to control their vehicles without touching the ignition. They can also unlock the doors and activate the lights and horn. This feature is popular because it allows car owners to prevent theft or set off the alarm to draw the attention of. Unfortunately, these cards can be an issue when they're lost or stolen, so it is crucial to get them replaced as soon as possible. A locksmith can do this swiftly and inexpensively, and at a fraction of the cost that a dealership would charge.
The key card is distinctive in appearance and works in the same way as a chipped keys, with the difference that the driver can access their vehicle without opening the door lock. There are several different types of card systems, each having their own pros and cons. Magnetic Stripe is the most popular and have black stripes on them that is swiped across the reader. Radio Frequency - these are similar to the magstripe cards, but operate within an extremely short distance, typically less than 10 cms. Hole Punches - These are on the way out but were very popular in the past. Unique combinations of holes would be punched to generate an access code.
Based on the type of Renault keycard you are using it can be easier to use, or more difficult to use. Some key cards have a button to start the car, while others display an on-board diagnosis (OBD). In some cases, these screens can be accessed remotely via an application on a smartphone.
Usually, these keys are protected by security measures that are in place to prevent keys from being reprogrammed to work with another car. This is to safeguard the car owner as well as the dealership, from thefts and other problems. Despite this, there are still ways around it. Many locksmiths have access a huge supply of new Renault key cards that can be programmed to a particular vehicle at a fraction of the price that a dealer would charge.
Transponder Chips
Modern Renault keys are equipped with transponder (also called a "chip-key"). The chip is a tiny electronic circuit that communicates with your car's ECU to unlock the doors and begin the engine. When you insert your car keys into the ignition, an antenna ring sends an energy burst radio frequency to the transponder. The chip emits an electronic signal that contains a unique code. The code is then read by the ECU to determine if the key is valid and therefore able to operate the vehicle. This could help reduce the risk of theft from cars, since keys aren't just a metal key which is easily copied. They have an additional layer of security to prevent unauthorised access to your vehicle.
The older cars that did not have a transponder chips were easy to copy and thieves could easily take their cars. Since the majority of cars built after 1995 have a transponder, this type crime is not as common. This is due to the fact that a car's microchip can only be activated by the correct key. It is unique to that car. If someone tries to start your car with the transponder key which hasn't been programmed to work with your particular car then the ECU won't recognize it and refuse to start.
Locksmiths can include a transponder chip on the existing key in a short time. Locksmiths use an equipment that can clone an existing key that you have for your car and then insert the chip. The cost for this service is dependent on the year, model and model of the car.
A replacement transponder chip can cost more than a simple flat metal key, but is less than other replacement keys such as a key fob or smart key. These other types of key provide more functionality and security than a standard metal key, and therefore tend to be more expensive to replace.
Immobilisers
Car immobilisers are a vital component of the security of your car. They stop your renault key programmer from being re-started with the wrong key, thus protecting your car from theft. Immobilisers have been required on all new automobiles in the UK since 1998, but some older vehicles are also equipped with them. These devices can help increase the security of your car and can even reduce your insurance rates.
The first automotive immobilisers were introduced in 1992, and most luxury automakers incorporated them into their vehicles soon after. They are designed to stop the engine from running if the correct key isn't present or if the transponder chip in the fob is not recognised by the electronic control unit (ECU).
When you insert the smart key into your vehicle, it sends an electronic code to your ECU. This code must match the code that allows the engine to start. If the codes aren't compatible the ECU will turn off several important vehicle components, including the starter motor and fuel system.
If you have an older Renault key that does not have the security feature, you can buy an alternative key to benefit from this additional layer of security. It is essential to make sure the new key is Thatcham-approved, and is programmed to work with your car.
Some tech-savvy thieves have devised ways to bypass the factory-installed anti-immobilisers. These techniques involve devices that can copy pin codes generated by your keys, and then transmit them to the ECU in order to fool it into thinking your key is present. This technique is referred to as relay theft and is a frequent problem for those who own modern day keyless entry and start 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 from unauthorized persons. You should never try to reprogram a key that has been programmed to work on another vehicle and you should seek help from a professional when this happens. Tony's Locksmith has access to a stock of fresh renault kadjar key card keys that can be programmed to the specific vehicle for a reasonable price.