Key fob distance to car?

[Dustkicker]

Hi I was just wondering if anybody knows why my key fob only works when I'm only a few feet from the car? I have changed the battery's to no avail. I have a 1999 Disco TD5.

Thanks in advance

Paul

[Disco Muppet]

Depends...
How long since you gave the Disco a compliment? :D
Think they're pretty temperamental
Mine works intermittently from say...10 metres at best, right next to it at worst.
Hope this helps
Cheers
Muppet

[trevor]

I can get 15-20 meters sometimes. Every now and then Though I have to be within 5 meters.

[Jeff]

Mine does 2-3 metres tops unless you are directly in front on a quiet night on level ground and raise it to eye level.

Jeff

:rocket:

[Dustkicker]

So its just one more thing that gives her that lovely character :D.
Thanks for your replies.

[Wasa57]

Stick the metal of the fob against you're noggin, Russian-roulette style, and gain about 15 metres.
I thought it was crap too until I tried!

[Dustkicker]

I was the same until I saw that Top Gear show as well. But to cold here in Orange (soon to be :twisted:enemy:twisted: territory) must ware beanies.

[Slunnie]

Stick the metal of the fob against you're noggin, Russian-roulette style, and gain about 15 metres.
I thought it was crap too until I tried!
I do that too. I touch my chin with the tip of the key and it triples the range. I dont know why, the key isn't connected electrically to the electonic bits.

[Disco Muppet]

I do that too. I touch my chin with the tip of the key and it triples the range. I dont know why, the key isn't connected electrically to the electonic bits.

Coupled with the intense mental concentration on the singe line of thought "Lucas Electrics WILL work...." :D :lol2:

[simonl8353]

Stick the metal of the fob against you're noggin, Russian-roulette style, and gain about 15 metres.
I thought it was crap too until I tried!
Yep, works for me, goes from 5 mtrs to 20 mtrs by pressing the plastic fob into my temple.
50yrs from now research will prove how that technique gave me a tumour. I wont care, I'll be dead.

[dinosaur]

Mines better on windless nights and when I'm not creeping up on her from the rear.

[Disco Muppet]

Did some research on this.
Apparently the body becomes some sort of antenna that increases the distance..... whodathunkit?
Cheers
Muppet

[Bundalene]

I do that too. I touch my chin with the tip of the key and it triples the range. I dont know why, the key isn't connected electrically to the electonic bits.


"The Force" must be strong with you Simon:D:D

[Mundy]

Mine operates typically between 5m and 30m depending on an number of factors. Other than the obvious battery state, it also depends on the strength of radio and electromagnetic interference at frequencies close to that used by the fob. For example, if I park close to a power pole mounted step down transformer, I have to get close for the fob to work or it may not work at all (and I have to use key code entry).

Also, it may relate to your aerial sensor (which is located in rear above the roof lining. I had one changed under warranty when it started to play up and I had difficulty in getting the fob to work.

[Dustkicker]

Mine operates typically between 5m and 30m depending on an number of factors. Other than the obvious battery state, it also depends on the strength of radio and electromagnetic interference at frequencies close to that used by the fob. For example, if I park close to a power pole mounted step down transformer, I have to get close for the fob to work or it may not work at all (and I have to use key code entry).

Also, it may relate to your aerial sensor (which is located in rear above the roof lining. I had one changed under warranty when it started to play up and I had difficulty in getting the fob to work.

Don't suppose you have a part number for the aerial sensor?
Did it take them long to change?

[Mundy]

Don't suppose you have a part number for the aerial sensor?
Did it take them long to change?

Sorry, no, I have no idea of the number. It was done by the dealer. Not sure how long it took as I dropped it off one evening and picked it up next day. Biggest inconvenience was for me to go to their workshop and remove my rear drawer system, which they couldn't work out how to remove.

[briza]

I checked the other day. Got 25 meters, no special moves,just pushed the button and away I went. But now I do have a problem,the drivers door locks with the fob but will not unlock. Bugger.