The Story of the Renault Card Key

The hands-free card is one of the most significant inventions to have ever changed the way that people use cars. Pascaline, Head Cross-Cutting Products for Renault Group Products, walks us through the history and development of this compact device.

The origins of the card

The hands-free card from Renault is an international hit. It’s become an integral element of the daily lives of car owners. renault megane key card replacement cost was designed, 20 years ago and is now one of the most innovative innovations of the company. Pascaline the Head of Cross-Cutting Products at the Products division takes us on a a journey to discover the story of this handy accessory.

In 2001, the Laguna II, an executive saloon that was designed to be a ‘lifestyle vehicle’, went into production. It was a period of significant innovation, and an array of new technology options that allowed customers enjoy the full advantages of their vehicle.

However, the passengers of the cars had to use keys to open and close their doors. Renault engineers were determined that this was a significant problem for many people.

In the end, they decided to incorporate the use of a contactless keycard into their vehicles. They also developed the system that would allow drivers to open and start their vehicles with just a wave of the hand. The result is the key card, which is now on the majority of Renault vehicles. It’s either in the ignition barrel or the centre console the car will unlock when the card is in close proximity and lock automatically when it is removed. This authentic Renault remote control key card (without blade). It comes individually clam-packed and is ready to be programmed using Abrites Diagnostics for Renault/ Dacia Software with the ProTAG Programmer.

The design

A Renault key card or even a remote car key, can be a fantastic convenience to have in our everyday lives. Unfortunately, these devices are prone to malfunction due to wear and tear or dropping. When this occurs, it could be very frustrating. There are several ways that you can repair your Renault keycard. One option is to contact the dealership. But, this can take a long time, and it could be costly. A professional locksmith is a different option.

SR Key Solutions is fully equipped to make and programme Renault keys and cards. We can offer you a replacement for your existing key at a significantly lower cost than dealers would charge. We can also do it much faster than a dealership would.

This product is compatible with Renault Laguna II, Espace 4 and Vel Satis keycards (keyless entry system). It shields your card and gives it a beautiful appearance. It comes in two colors and can be printed with your VIN, logo, or other details. It can be used with a regular keychain or inside a key case. This is an authentic Renault part and is only compatible with the vehicle for the reason for which it was purchased. Please provide your VIN to ensure that the correct key has been supplied.

The technology

Renault key cards contain transponder chips and a low frequency communication feature that lets the card communicate with your vehicle. The chips are susceptible to cracking due to regular use, and it’s very expensive to repair or replace them at the dealer. We can repair or replace your Renault key cards for less than a dealership.

The hands-free card was initially launched in 2001 on the Laguna II saloon, which was designed to be a “lifestyle” car of 21st century. But, despite a thorough design brief that was based on more than 6,000 customer interviews looking at their lifestyles, habits and expectations, Renault ran out of time to develop prototypes and test every possible applications.

Luckily, the lead product developer on Laguna II, Bernard Dumondel was staying in an hotel at the time, and used his room key to open his car. As the key featured tiny magnetic strips, the product lead thought it might be possible to create a car key that functioned similarly.

In the years that followed the card was hailed as a groundbreaking innovation and is now available on two of three Renault vehicles. Renault has decided to utilize the new features of smartphones to improve the hands-free card, though it appears that they are about to replace it.

The keyless entry system

The hands-free card of Renault was a groundbreaking piece of technology when it first came out 20 years ago. The exterior is the same but the technology has been upgraded to make it more user-friendly and less vulnerable to hacking.

In the first place, it cannot 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 will still start the ignition from a distance but it will not open the doors. This is for your security.

Second, the wireless remote control transmissions of the system employ the rolling-code. This minimizes the possibility of security being compromised by someone intercepting and retransmitting the control message to gain access, but isn’t a guarantee of avoiding the risk completely. [1]

If your Megane’s key fob suddenly stops working – specifically after you’ve dropped it on the ground – it could be a sign the receiver module has developed a fault. If this is the situation it is necessary to replace your key fob with an original Renault replacement. For more information, click the ‘Key Programming Information tab’ above. Customers who are in the motor or locksmith trades can apply for a trade account and benefit from a discounted price.