The Story of the Renault Card Key
The inventions that have changed the way we use cars, none has made such a huge difference to the everyday lives of drivers like the hands-free card. Pascaline, Head of Cross-Cutting Products at Renault Group Products, takes us through the history of this small device.
The origins of the card
A vital part of the car-owner's daily life The hands-free card of Renault has become a worldwide hit. Since its first introduction around 20 years ago it is among the top innovations from the company. Pascaline the Head of Cross-Cutting Products at the Products division, takes us on a journey to discover the story of this handy accessory.
In 2001, the Laguna II, a saloon aimed at embodying 'lifestyle' driving, went into production. It was an era of tremendous innovation and various new equipment capabilities that let customers enjoy their vehicle to the maximum.
The occupants were still required to use the keys to open and close their doors. Renault engineers realized that this was a major problem for many.
They decided to incorporate the use of a contactless card into their vehicles, and then develop a system which would allow drivers to enter and unlock their cars by simply hand gestures. The card key can now be present in two of three Renault vehicles. The car will be unlocked automatically when the card is placed near the ignition barrel or the centre console. renault clio car key is a genuine Renault remote control keycard (without the blade). It is clam-packed in a sealed package and is ready to be programmed with Abrites Diagnostics for Renault/ Dacia Software with the ProTAG Programmer.
The design
The possession of a Renault key card or even a car remote key can be a fantastic convenience in our everyday lives. Unfortunately, these things are susceptible to failure due to ware and wear or being dropped. When this occurs, it is very frustrating. Fortunately, there are many options to replace your Renault key card. Contacting the dealership is one option. But, this can take a long time and it can also be costly. Another option is to contact a professional locksmith.
SR Key Solutions is fully equipped to manufacture and program Renault keys and cards. We can provide a replacement for your existing key at a cheaper price than what dealers would charge. Additionally, we can do it much more quickly than a dealer.
This product is compatible with the Renault Laguna II (keyless entry), Espace 4 (keyless entry) and Vel Satis (keyless entrance system). It helps protect your card and gives it a stylish appearance. It is available in two colors and can be customized with your VIN, logo, etc. It can be used with a regular keychain, or in the key case. This is a genuine Renault component and will only work with the vehicle for the reason for which it was purchased. Please supply your VIN when you place an order to ensure that the right key is supplied.
The technology
Renault key cards have transponder chips inside and have a low-frequency communication feature which allows the card to communicate with your vehicle. These chips are prone to cracking from general use and it could be expensive to have them repaired or replaced by a dealer. We can repair or replace your Renault key card for just a fraction of the retail cost.
The hands-free card first appeared in 2001, on the Laguna II saloon. This car was designed as the car that would be the most desirable of the 21st century. Renault was unable to test every possible application despite a detailed design brief that was based on over 6,000 interviews with customers.
Bernard Dumondel was the product leader on Laguna II at the time. He utilized his hotel room key to unlock his car. He thought that keys for cars could be created with the same magnetic strip used for the key.
In the following years, the card was hailed an innovative invention and is now present on two of three Renault vehicles. Although smartphones appear to be in the process of replacing it, Renault has chosen to utilize these new technologies without letting the hands-free card fall by the wayside.
The keyless entry system
The hands-free card of Renault was a ground-breaking piece of technology when it was launched 20 years ago. The exterior design is the same, but the technology has been improved to make it more user-friendly and more secure to hack.
Firstly, it can't be used to open the doors or start the engine from outside the vehicle, unless it is activated by the driver. This is because radio antennae "around the car" are designed to determine whether the key is inside or outside. The key can still function from a distance, allowing you to start the car's ignition but not to unlock the doors, and that's to ensure your safety.
The second is that the wireless remote control transmissions of the system utilize a rolling-code. This decreases the chance of someone stealing the control message and then transmitting it to gain access, but does not completely eliminate the possibility. [1]
If your Megane's key fob suddenly stops working, especially after you have dropped it on the ground - it could be a sign the receiver module has developed an issue. If this is the case it is necessary to replace the key fob with an original Renault replacement. Click the 'Key Programming Information above to learn more. Customers who are working in the locksmith or motor trade can register for a trade account to enjoy a special price.