If your Renault is displaying “Key Card Not Detected”, “Card Not Recognised”, or your push-start button does nothing, you’re not alone. This is one of the most common faults on modern Renault vehicles equipped with key cards and hands-free systems. Drivers often turn to Google or AI search assistants and type phrases such as:
- “Renault key card not detected”
- “Renault won’t start, key card fault”
- “Key card not detected, but card is inside”
- “Renault push start not working”
- “Renault card reader fault DF002 / DF045 / DF185”
This guide explains every cause, every symptom, all fault codes, and how a mobile auto locksmith can fix the problem quickly.
What Is the Renault Key Card System?
Most modern Renault vehicles use a key card instead of a traditional key.
The card communicates with the vehicle’s:
- Immobiliser
- Card reader
- Aerial/antenna system
- Electronic Steering Column Lock (ESL/ESCL)
- UCH/BCM (Body Control Module)
If any part of the communication chain fails, the vehicle will not start, and the dashboard will display a warning.
Renault Models Commonly Affected
This issue affects almost every Renault model using key card technology, including:
- Renault Megane (Mk2, Mk3, Mk4)
- Renault Scenic (Mk2, Mk3, Mk4)
- Renault Laguna (Mk2, Mk3)
- Renault Clio (Mk3, Mk4, Mk5)
- Renault Captur (all generations)
- Renault Kadjar
- Renault Talisman
- Renault Espace
- Renault Zoe (EV)
- Renault Koleos
- Renault Modus
Key card faults are also seen on some Nissan models built on shared platforms (e.g., Note, Qashqai), although Renault-branded faults are the most common.
Dashboard Messages You Might See
Renault displays very direct messages when the key card cannot be recognised.
These include:
- “KEYCARD NOT DETECTED”
- “CARD NOT RECOGNISED”
- “KEYCARD NOT DETECTED – PRESS BRAKE + START”
- “NO KEY DETECTED”
- “STEERING NOT LOCKED” (related to ESCL)
- “STEERING LOCKED”
- “KEY SYSTEM FAULT”
- “CARD ERROR”
- “STARTING FAILURE”
- “CARD BATTERY LOW”
Push-button start systems may show:
- The lights come on, but no crank
- “Press Clutch + Start” (no response)
- Dead start button
- No ignition at all
Common Renault Key Card Fault Codes
A diagnostic scan tool often shows fault codes such as:
Key Card / Immobiliser / UCH Codes:
- DF002 – Computer internal electronic fault / UCH internal fault
- DF045 – Hands-free card reader fault
- DF185 – Key card not recognised
- DF025 – Card reader antenna fault
- DF067 – Key card signal error
- DF194 – Immobiliser signal fault
ESL / Steering Lock Codes (related to card detection):
- DF002 – Steering column lock internal fault
- C1608 – Steering lock ECU internal fault
- DF*** variations depending on model year and steering lock generation
These codes confirm the issue is within the key card system and not the engine, battery, starter motor or gearbox.
Possible Symptoms of Renault Key Card Detection Problems
Drivers commonly experience:
- The car does not detect the key card at all
- “Card not detected” appears randomly or intermittently
- The engine does not crank
- Dash lights come on, but the start button does nothing
- Steering remains locked
- Car unlocks or locks inconsistently with the hands-free system
- You have to hold the key card in a certain position
- Rattling noises from the steering column (ESCL not releasing)
- “Card battery low” message, even with a new battery
In severe cases, the car becomes completely immobilised and will not unlock, start or release the steering lock.
Main Causes of Renault Key Card Detection Faults
1. Faulty Key Card
The internal transponder chip or PCB can fail due to:
- Wear and tear
- Moisture
- Cracked solder joints
- Physical damage (dropped card)
2. Flat or Weak Card Battery
A weak CR2032 battery may allow remote locking/unlocking but prevent the car from detecting the card for starting.
3. Faulty Card Reader
Card readers commonly fail on Megane, Scenic and Laguna models.
Problems include:
- Worn internal switches
- Broken contacts
- Sensor failure
- Dirt or debris inside the reader
4. Faulty Aerial / Antenna Module
Renault uses multiple aerials around the cabin (in the dash, door handles, boot and roof).
If the correct aerial isn’t working, the car cannot detect the key.
5. ESCL / Steering Lock Fault
A failed steering lock will prevent the vehicle from starting even if the card is detected correctly.
This is why many people see both:
- “CARD NOT DETECTED”
- “STEERING LOCKED”
at the same time.
6. Immobiliser / UCH (Body Control Module) Fault
Corruption, wiring problems or internal electronic failures can stop communication between modules.
7. Low Vehicle Battery Voltage
A weak 12V battery can trigger false “card not detected” warnings.
8. Interference
Mobile phones, WiFi routers, chargers and high-frequency equipment near the key can block communication.
How a Mobile Auto Locksmith Can Fix Renault Key Card Issues
A specialist Renault auto locksmith can fix these problems on-site without towing the vehicle.
Typical solutions include:
- Diagnosing immobiliser, UCH and ESCL faults
- Testing aerial modules and card reader
- Repairing or replacing faulty key cards
- Supplying and coding new Renault key cards
- Reprogramming immobiliser data
- Replacing or repairing the card reader
- Fixing ESCL / electronic steering lock problems
- Synchronising a new key card with the vehicle
- Removing old/lost cards from the system
- Repairing wiring faults or communication errors
Many faults can be fixed the same day.
Is This a Dealer-Only Repair?
No.
Dealers often quote high prices for:
- New key cards
- New card readers
- New steering locks
- UCH/BCM replacement
A qualified Renault locksmith can usually:
- Repair instead of replace
- Provide new key cards for less
- Fix the fault at your home or workplace
- Avoid the need for a tow truck
What To Do If Your Renault Shows “Key Card Not Detected”
- Try a spare card (if you have one).
- Replace the CR2032 battery inside the card.
- Move the card to different areas inside the car.
- Insert the card fully into the reader (if fitted).
- Check if the steering lock is stuck.
- Avoid holding the card near mobile phones or metal objects.
- Call a mobile auto locksmith for diagnostics if the problem continues.
Need a Renault Key Card Specialist?
If your Renault is showing “Key Card Not Detected”, refusing to start or displaying immobiliser or steering lock faults, I provide:
- Mobile diagnostics
- Key card replacements
- Card reader repairs
- Steering lock repairs
- Immobiliser programming
- On-site service across West Sussex, Surrey and surrounding areas
Fast, professional, and usually far cheaper than the dealership.