Espace immobilizer fault

I understand your frustration with the immobilizer issue on your Renault Espace. I encountered a similar problem with my 2018 Opel Insignia. The symptoms you describe, such as the engine starting briefly and then cutting out, along with the immobilizer error, suggest a potential issue with the key transponder or the vehicle's anti-theft system. Before considering more complex solutions, have you checked the car battery's voltage? A low battery can sometimes cause spurious immobilizer faults.

Thanks for the reply! I hadn't thought about the battery. I'll check it with a multimeter tomorrow. But if the battery is okay, what else could it be? And what was the problem with your Opel Insignia in the end? Was it a costly repair?

In my case with the Opel, the battery was not the issue. The fault was caused by the key losing its programming with the car's immobilizer system. Given your symptoms and the error code you retrieved, it is highly probable that your Espace has a similar problem. I would recommend taking your car to a qualified workshop with the appropriate diagnostic equipment. They should be able to reprogram your key or diagnose any deeper issues within the immobilizer system.

Thanks a lot for your help and advice! I took it to a local workshop, and you were spot on. It turned out the key needed reprogramming. They hooked it up to their computer and sorted it out in about half an hour. The bill came to 45€, so not too bad at all! I really appreciate you sharing your experience with your Opel.