Renault Clio Key Fob ReplacementIf your
Renault Clio key fob buttons stop functioning or the card ceases to allow you to lock/unlock or even start the car it is time to replace it. Dealers or locksmiths are the best suited to do this job.
New-car dealers have the expensive equipment required to program digital key fobs. Check your warranty, car-insurance policy, or auto club membership coverage to determine if it covers this service.
Chipped Keys
It is likely that the chip key in your car will require programming in order to function. The keys have an electronic microchip embedded in the head of the car key that sends a signal to an immobilizer when it is inserted into the mechanical ignition or proximity FOB (car fob) which is part of a push-to-start system in some cars. This process lets the car verify that the key is equipped with a digital serial number that matches the code stored in its computer. If it does the car will remove the immobilizer and allow the engine to turn over.
This technology is also referred to as "transponder" technology and is a major part of the most modern anti-theft systems. It was developed during World War 2 to combat the rise in car thefts and has since been adopted by a majority of major automotive manufacturers.
A key with a transponder is a tiny circuit board inside that is powered by a tiny battery. When a key inserted in the ignition, it transmits electromagnetic energy to the antenna ring part of the immobilizer systems of the majority of automobiles. The chip absorbs the energy and responds by sending a unique identification code to the antenna ring.
The chip in transponders is sensitive to mechanical shocks as well as water. Submerging the key in water or dropping it onto any hard surface could harm it. If you need an transponder that needs to be duplicated only a locksmith who is licensed is the right person to be able to handle it.
If you're struggling with a key that is chipped the best choice is to contact an auto locksmith professional like Pop-A-Lock. They can program and cut the majority of new transponder keys as well as flip remote keys and proximity fobs on-site at your location. They can also repair an old FOB at a lower cost than you think, so it's worth contacting them to see what options are available to you.
Key Cards
Renault's hands free card is among the most well-known accessories in the history of automobiles. Although it might seem like a small piece of technology that is unlikely to be replaced with something more sophisticated, recent improvements have made the use of the hands-free device simpler and safer. It's a small wonder that this accessory is still available on more than two-thirds of Renault vehicles that will be sold in 2021.
The story of the hands-free card began in 2001 with the release of the
renault clio key fob replacement Laguna II. The design team of the company was seeking ways to make the car more user-friendly to use. It was during this period that one of the designers, Bernard Dumondel, was staying in a hotel and realized that the magnetic card used in the room could be used to unlock his car.
This was a turning-point in the development of cards that were hands-free. In the years that followed the technology grew more advanced. Renault eventually offered a version compatible with their entire range of vehicles. In this version the car would open when it detected that the card was near it, and then lock when the card was moved away from the vehicle.
The system was a great success, but it also had some issues. For example the lock only unlocks when the card is placed close to the vehicle resulted in people could accidentally lock their car while shopping for instance, or when they were trying to open the boot. Additionally, the fact that the keycard contained an ignition key within it (in case of failure) meant that drivers could accidentally start their engine or turn on electrical devices on the dashboard when they weren't expecting to.
Renault developed a new hands-free card generation in 2015 to address these concerns. This model is more efficient and features an entry system that does not require keys and is less susceptible to interference by nearby objects. It is also more secure, because it is more difficult to hack. In addition, the addition of a second button on the card signifies that it can be used to switch on the interior lighting of the car which is beneficial in parking spaces that are dark.
Immobilisers
The immobiliser is an engine-disabling security system. It disables the car's engine when the key that is not the correct one is used. It is a tiny circuit within your key fob in order to directly transmit a code to the electronic control unit of the car. The ECU is able to verify the code before allowing it to start the engine. It also records data that is useful for insurance investigations, warranty claims and troubleshooting technical issues.
Since the beginning of 1990, immobilisers are used in cars and have helped to decrease the number of stolen cars. A study by the Economic Journal revealed that immobilisers have reduced thefts of cars by 40% between 1995-2008.
Almost all modern vehicles come fitted with factory-installed immobilisers. Immobilisers are also available for older vehicles without them. All immobilisers, however, are created to be the same. Some have weak encryption that can be beaten with simple tools and techniques. Others are more difficult to break and can only be decoded by a specialist with access to the vehicle's ECU.
If your car's immobiliser doesn't seem to be working properly, it could be that the battery in the key fob is in need of replacement. This can be a relatively easy job that you can do yourself. It is best to take your car to an expert mechanic to get the work done. This will ensure that there is no damage to the chip on your key fob, allowing it to connect with your vehicle.
Another reason that could cause an immobiliser malfunctioning is that your vehicle has had replacement keys or repairs to the ignition starter motor, fuel and systems. This can cause problems by altering the code sequence sent from the key to the ECU.
Immobilisers that are fitted in the factory and approved by Thatcham are very effective at deterring theft, but they're not completely secure. Criminals have found methods to get around them, for instance, a technique called'relay-theft' that block the signal between your car's technology and your key. This scam can be avoided by keeping your car's keys in a Faraday bag that blocks signals when you're not using it.
Key Replacement
The cost of replacing a key fob will differ based on the type of vehicle you own. If you have an electronic key that doesn't include any electronic components, the cost is minimal. Hardware stores can make simple copies of a key for less than $50.
Many modern cars use key fobs that are equipped with an immobilizer and chip. These chips connect with the vehicle and confirm that the key is valid, allowing you to lock or open the doors. The chip also triggers your car's ignition. This is why it's important to keep a spare key. If you have a spare key you can replace the damaged or lost fob and begin driving again.
You can also buy keys from the market at a lower cost than dealer replacement keys. But, they're not as compatible with your car. If you're looking for a low-cost method to get a spare key or replace a damaged one, you can visit your local Batteries Plus store. The store will help you find the right part and will have it available for you to pick up in a matter of minutes.
Another alternative is to have an expert locksmith reprogram your existing key fob. A few online resources can help you through the process. However, it is a complex job that requires an experienced technician in the field.