I have been following this post for a while now, thanks for all your very informative replies. and today I have received email saying my renew card has been issued, so I would like to share my timeframe with you guys
PR card renewal application was received by CIC on APRIL 13, 2015
CIC began processing the application on JUNE 19, 2015
Received email from CIC on JUNE 19, 2015 requesting color copies of passport.
Received email from CIC on OCT 18, 2016 inform that renew card has been issued.
One year and half....I don't know if this is their current process time frame, what I did is to send them request on weekly bases asking for update, and I did send an ATIP request last week (I don't know if that helps with processing time or not?).
Nevertheless, keep trying everyone...