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 takes us through the background and development of this small device.
The origins of the card
A vital part of the daily lives of car owners, Renault's hands-free card has become a global hit. It was first designed 20 years ago and is now among the most popular innovations within the company. Pascaline the Head of Cross-Cutting Products at the Products division, takes us on journey to learn the story of this handy accessory.
In 2001 the Laguna II, an executive saloon that is a symbol of 'lifestyle driving", went into production. It was a time of significant innovation, and an array of new technology features that helped customers get the maximum benefits of their car.
The occupants were still required to use the keys to open and close their doors. This was a huge obstacle for many and Renault engineers determined to tackle the issue.
They decided to include a contactless card in their vehicles, and develop an application that would allow drivers to open and start their cars by simply waving their hands. The card key can now be found in two out of three Renault vehicles. The car will open automatically when the card is placed near the ignition barrel or the center console. This is a genuine Renault remote control card (without blade). It is supplied 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 great convenience to have in our everyday lives. Unfortunately, these devices are susceptible to malfunction due to wear and tear or dropping. It can be very frustrating when this happens. There are several ways that you can replace your Renault keycard. One option is to contact the dealership. However, this could take a long time, and it could be costly. A professional locksmith is an alternative option.
SR Key Solutions is fully equipped to make and programme Renault keys and cards and keys. We can replace your keys at a lower cost than what a dealer would cost. Furthermore, we can complete it much more quickly than a dealership would.
This product is compatible with the Renault Laguna II, Espace 4 and Vel Satis keycards (keyless entry system). It protects your keycard whilst creating a beautiful design. It comes in two colors and can be customized with your VIN, logo or any other information. It can be used in conjunction with a normal keychain or placed inside the key case. This is an authentic Renault part that can only be used on the vehicle for the reason for which it was purchased. Please supply your VIN when you order to ensure that the correct key is provided.
The technology
Renault key cards come with transponder chips and a low frequency communication feature. This allows the card to talk to your car. These chips are prone to cracking due to use and it could be costly to have them repaired or replaced by a dealer. We can repair or replacement your Renault key cards for only a fraction of the cost of a dealership.
The hands-free cards were first introduced in 2001 on the Laguna II saloon, which was designed to represent the "lifestyle" car of 21st century. Renault was unable to test every possible use despite the detailed design guidelines built on over 6,000 phone calls with customers.
Luckily, the product lead on Laguna II, Bernard Dumondel, was staying in an hotel at the time, and used his room key to unlock his car. The key he was using had an extremely small magnetic strip, the product lead thought it might be possible to create a car key that worked similarly.
In the years to come the card was described as an invention that revolutionized the world and is now present on two of three Renault vehicles. Although renault car key cover are in the process of replacing it, Renault has chosen to make use of these new features without letting the hands-free card fall by the wayside.
The keyless entry system
The hands-free card from Renault was a groundbreaking piece of technology when it first came out 20 years ago. The exterior design is the same but the technology has been upgraded to make it easier to use and harder to hack.
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 signal antennae "around" the car are configured to detect whether the key is in or inside it. The key can still function from a distance to start the car's ignition but not to unlock the doors, and that's for your safety.
The other thing to note is that the system's wireless remote control transmissions make use of a rolling code. This reduces the likelihood of someone intercepting an informational message and transmitting it to gain access, but it does not eliminate it. [1]
If your Megane's key fob suddenly stops working - particularly after you've dropped it on the floor, it could be a sign that the receiver module has developed an issue. If this is the case, you'll need to replace it with an authentic Renault replacement. For more information about key programming, click the Key Programming Information tab above. Customers who are in the locksmith or motor trade can sign up for a trade account and enjoy a special price.