keyless entry range?

[blovell]

I have an 02 xlt and my keyless entry is ridiculously limited. The key fob usually won't unlock the doors or anything unless I'm within 15 feet or so. Is there a solution to this? An aftermarket key fob that would work with the factory system? Anything?

 

[E.B. Cornburner]

First, replace the battery in your key fob if you haven't done so already.

Fords generally have an incredible range...I've had them reach over 1000 feet already, thru concrete walls, etc. Compared to the GMs and Chryslers, the Fords almost always have the best range.

You also may be in an area where there's lots of radio frequency interference. In that case, there's not a whole lot that can be done to improve it.

 

[placemarty]

I'm in an area that is in the middle of nowhere, and my doors won't unlock until i am on top of the vehicle. It's an 05 xlt

 

[BigRondo]

I agree with E.B. Cornburner, change the battery or at least check it with a meter. A low battery will restrict the range for sure. If you need me too, I'll check my battery and do some random tests. i have an '02 XLT with both factory remotes.

 

[placemarty]

My battery's have been replaced twice, the dealer says that it is within there 10 foot spec. But I feel they are full of crap. They have even given me new remotes.

 

[kstrayhorn]

glad I found this thread! mine is limited to about 4 ft. I haven't changed the batteries, but then I have only had it for a couple of months. how to replace battery?

 

[briwayjones]

Fords generally have an incredible range...I've had them reach over 1000 feet already, thru concrete walls, etc. Compared to the GMs and Chryslers, the Fords almost always have the best range.

Same here.

 

[mr2fix2it]

I have seen this multiple times. Its the keyless entry module or vehicle security module (same module) replace that and reprogram your keys and the problem will be gone.Range varies by area you are in. But 10 feet na! not good and as for 4 feet even more the range is usually about 100 feet . the module is in the left rear quarter trim at the "c" pillar this module also changes your keyless entry code it is written on module.

 

[waskly]

glad I found this thread! mine is limited to about 4 ft. I haven't changed the batteries, but then I have only had it for a couple of months. how to replace battery?

pry it apart where the key ring is, the slit. put in a new 3volt battery...

just a note, the remote you carry on your keys and they might drop get banged up and other stuff. try a new remote if batteries don't fix it.

most likely its the remote that goes bad.

 

[BigRondo]

Just checked my remotes and the range was horrible. I replaced the batteries and the range is now fantastic.

I do have a question, however. Sometimes when I unlock my doors with the remote, the puddle lights don't come on and sometimes they do. There seems to be no pattern, ie distance, length of button press. I was wondering if this could be related to the security module? Would replacing the module remedy this. What is involved in replacing the security module? Is it simply remove and replace or is it more involved?

Thanks, Rondo

 

[43]

I had that with the Puddle Lights on my last explorer too, but just the drivers side one. Gave it a good punch and it worked 90% of the time.

 

[waskly]

Just checked my remotes and the range was horrible. I replaced the batteries and the range is now fantastic.

I do have a question, however. Sometimes when I unlock my doors with the remote, the puddle lights don't come on and sometimes they do. There seems to be no pattern, ie distance, length of button press. I was wondering if this could be related to the security module? Would replacing the module remedy this. What is involved in replacing the security module? Is it simply remove and replace or is it more involved?

Thanks, Rondo

broken wire probably in the boot from the body to the door. check that. theres a post here somewhere about it, its a black wire

 

[BigRondo]

I had that with the Puddle Lights on my last explorer too, but just the drivers side one. Gave it a good punch and it worked 90% of the time.

broken wire probably in the boot from the body to the door. check that. theres a post here somewhere about it, its a black wire

I think you guys misunderstood. I have already repaired a broken wire & my puddle lights work 100% of the time when I turn on the dome lights with the dimmer or I open any of the doors or the rear liftgate.

Sometimes when I unlock my doors with the remote, the puddle lights don't come on and sometimes they do. When they don't come on with the remote, they always come on when I open the door. I was wondering if this is related to my security module.

Thanks - Rondo

 

[Kazer]

I was having this problem too so I picked up another csm. How do I reconnect my keypad to the different module?