Question 1

What is the difference between a simple key and a key with remote?

Accepted Answer

A simple key (transponder only) allows only starting the vehicle — locking and unlocking are done manually with the mechanical blade. A key with a remote adds radio electronics that allow controlling central locking, sometimes windows and boot, remotely. Keyless-Go keys go further: they also allow starting without inserting the key (START button). The more complex the key, the more expensive the reproduction (part + coding).

Question 2

What is Keyless-Go and how does it work?

Accepted Answer

Keyless-Go (Mercedes term, but equivalent system at BMW under "Comfort Access", Volkswagen "Kessy", Peugeot "Hands-Free Proximity"…) allows opening and starting the vehicle without taking the key out of your pocket. The principle: antennas embedded in the vehicle continuously communicate with the key to detect its proximity. If the key is valid and close, a simple handle unlocks the door, and pressing the START button starts the engine. This system requires a more complex coding procedure — expect €249-399 depending on the vehicle.

Question 3

Is my Renault card key supported?

Accepted Answer

Yes, fully. Renault hands-free cards (Laguna II/III, Scénic II/III, Mégane III/IV, Espace IV/V, Vel Satis) are a Renault proprietary format — we reproduce them starting from €149. Bring your functional original card, registration document, and ID. Expect 45 minutes to 1 hour for complete reproduction (immobiliser coding + central locking pairing + testing). We provide the blank card, you do not pay any part surcharge.

Question 4

My remote is not responding — is it necessarily the battery or does it need reprogramming?

Accepted Answer

Always start by changing the battery: it's the No.1 cause of remote failures (cost €2-5, 2-minute operation). If the new battery doesn't solve it, it could be: (1) a desynchronisation of the remote with the vehicle (after a battery has been disconnected for too long, or a radio disturbance) — re-pairing possible with us for €29-49 if the key is functional with the transponder, (2) a hardware failure of the radio transmitter — requires key replacement. If your key starts the vehicle but the central locking buttons are silent, it's a desynchronisation case — we intervene within 30 minutes.

Question 5

The shell of my key is broken, does it need to be completely replaced?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. If only the plastic shell is damaged (broken button, cracked shell), we can replace it at a reduced cost (€30-80) by recovering your original electronics and transponder — no coding required, it's a simple "transplantation" operation. This solution applies to most standard plip keys. Send us a photo of your broken key: we confirm feasibility and price within 24h.

Question 6

How long does it take to reproduce a key with remote?

Accepted Answer

The operation itself varies according to complexity: simple plip key: 30-45 min. Smart key with retractable blade: 45-60 min. Keyless-Go key: 60-90 min. Premium key (S-Class, Range Rover): 90-120 min. This time includes transponder coding, remote pairing, Keyless-Go initialization if applicable, and a complete test of all functions. Plan for a 1h to 2h immobilisation slot of the vehicle at our workshop.

Question 7

Can I buy a blank key online and have you code it?

Accepted Answer

Yes, it's a common practice and can save you 30-40% on the total price. You buy the blank key from a specialised supplier (Aliexpress, eBay, auto-key sites) for €30-100 depending on the model, and bring the key to us for coding — we then only charge for the coding service (€89-149 depending on complexity). Note: the blank key must be strictly compatible with your model (exact reference + correct radio frequency + correct transponder type). Send us the product link before purchase, we validate compatibility.

Question 8

Is there a risk of "bricking" my car during the intervention?

Accepted Answer

No risk with our service. We use high-end programming equipment (Autel IM608 Pro, Launch X431 IMMO Elite, manufacturer tools) that secures interactions with your vehicle's anti-theft ECU. Each intervention is preceded by a backup of the original configuration, and adding a new key is a non-destructive operation (it does not erase your existing keys, it adds one). In 10+ years of experience, we have never had a vehicle lockout case — that's the benefit of entrusting this type of intervention to a well-equipped professional.

Car Key with Remote — Duplication or Replacement

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Car Key with Remote — Duplication or Replacement

Types of Remote Keys Supported

Plip Key (integrated remote, classic insertion)

Hands-free Key with Retractable Blade

Keyless-Go Key (keyless start)

Renault Hands-free Card

What the Service Includes

Indicative Prices

Why Does a Key with Remote Cost More than a Simple Key?

Intervention Process

Why choose Incarline?

Recognised expertise

1-year warranty

48-72h turnaround

Frequently asked questions