Bettina Hobel, a German mother, has encountered a difficult situation with her 2013 Renault Espace, as reported by Bild. She discovered that all three key cards required for opening the doors and starting the car had broken. Normally, one would go to a dealership to obtain a new coded key card, but Renault has informed her that these cards are no longer available for her model, which raises concerns about the car's future usability and value.

The situation is alarming not only for Hobel but also serves as a broader warning to other Renault Espace owners. The lack of available replacement parts can diminish the car's worth significantly, making it practically worthless should key components become inoperable. Hobel's vehicle, having been well-maintained with a record of 153,000 kilometers and a recent inspection, now faces an uncertain future.

This case highlights the potential issue of manufacturers discontinuing essential parts for older car models, a situation that could severely impact owners of these vehicles. It raises questions about consumer rights, the durability of car components, and the implications of planned obsolescence in the automotive industry, especially for models that are still relatively recent.