2002 Renault Laguna unable to start, only red light on dashboard when key inserted

Have you tried a jump start ? Check starter connections / wiring ?

Hi, i have a renault clio and it appears you have the same problem i had last month. Do you have a spare key to try start the car? Many Renaults have car key problems as they are extremely fragile, and if the red light on your dash is flashing whilst trying to start the car you have an immobiliser problem. With Renaults in 99% of cases the chip inside the key will be damaged and if this is the case you have 2 options.
1. Take your key to a 'large' locksmiths. They will have a machine to try and trace the immobiliser, if they cannot trace it, then certainly you need a new key or key repaired. If it can be traced then you could buy a new key off them, they will put the immobiliser in the key then take your key 2 a mechanics that have the renault machine to program your new key.

2. Call a mobile locksmith that deals with cars. This is what i did as it was quickest, easiest and cheapest. Within 45 mins he changed the CDI unit and put a new chip in my key so it doesnt start off the original immboiliser, and therefore you shouldnt suffer from this problem again. Cost me £140 but to go through renault direct takes 2 weeks at even more of a cost. I have the guys number still but am sure he will only do the London area so if you're local then contact me. Hope this helps!!

is that for a renault laguna 2002 model with the key card, as when i put the key in the slot the light on the dash stays on when the key is taken out it flashes as stated the key card opens and locks doors fine just the instrument panel will not light up and engine will not start would your man be able to clear this by changing the immobilser etc as you stated

Im sure he will. Sounds very similar to my problem and Ive been told that the Renaults are renowned for their immobiliser problems. If your car was running fine and then all of a sudden will not start, with the red light on the dash i would imagine it must be the immobiliser. If it is, the locksmith will be able to sort it. His number is 07944667773. However I suppose it depends on how you feel about the situation. My clio just wouldnt turn on one day and because of the red light on the dash appearing when i tried starting the car, I took a chance with sorting the immobiliser and it solved all my problems. Hope this helps!!

Will replacing the card reader make any difference