Renault Latitude Keyless Entry Fault

The symptoms you describe do indeed point towards an issue with the vehicle's antenna system, specifically the bumper antenna. The error memory likely contains a fault code related to the remote keyless entry (RKE) or the immobilizer system. The RKE system relies on the antenna to receive the signal from your key fob. When the antenna is compromised, the system might fail to recognize the key, hence the starting issue. I would suggest examining the cable and plug connections associated with the bumper antenna. A defective cable or loose connection is a common culprit. If you have access to a multimeter, you could check for continuity in the antenna cable.

Thanks so much for your detailed reply! When you say 'check for continuity', could you elaborate a little? To be honest, my knowledge of electrics isn't the best, and I'm not entirely sure what I should be looking for with the multimeter. Is there a specific reading I should expect, or is it more a case of identifying a break in the circuit?

Understood. Checking for continuity involves verifying that an electrical circuit is complete and uninterrupted. With the multimeter set to the continuity setting (usually indicated by a diode symbol or an audible beep), place one probe on one end of the antenna cable and the other probe on the other end. If the multimeter beeps or displays a low resistance reading (close to 0 ohms), the circuit is continuous. If there's no beep or a very high resistance reading, there's a break in the circuit. However, considering your description and the potential complexity of the antenna system, it would be advisable to seek professional diagnosis and repair. A workshop will have the proper diagnostic tools to pinpoint the exact fault and replace the defective component. The repair shouldn't be too expensive though, I've seen similar issues fixed for around 95€.

Many thanks for clarifying that for me. I suspected it was going to be a job for the professionals in the end, and your advice has certainly confirmed that. I'll book it in with a local garage and mention the antenna cable to them. Hopefully, it will be a straightforward fix. It turned out to be exactly as you suggested. The cable had come loose, and they charged me 95€ for the fix! Thanks again!