This is something that has bothered me ever since I took delivery of my '04 S2000 (brand new). The remote only works from a very limited distance (a max. of 5 to 10 feet from the car).

My '01 S2000's remote(s) would work from as far as 50 to 75 feet.

I've tried both remotes, and I'm assuming they put brand new batteries in these things when the key fob is manufactured (but who knows, stranger things have happened).

Is there anything I could try? I know about tricks such as placing the key fob under your chin, but that just looks silly

 

mine works from a very limited range too

i just swallow my pride and click it under my chin to get it to work if i'm 10-30 feet away

 

I took delivery of an 05 last week and it works as well as my 01 does. Try a new batt.

 

I would suggest a new battery. Also, holding your hand in front of the keyfob (button side) will increase the range same as holding it to your chin, and probably look a lot less goofy.

 

I just bought a '05 and my range is horrible as well

 

I could drop in a small signal gain block and you will get plenty of range.......

 

How does this work? Curious to learn

 

I'd have to first open up the transmitter and determine what small signal amp they are using, what freq it transmits at, what voltage it's run off of, and how the circuit is laid out. Maybe the amp could be placed in line with the small signal amp that's already in the transmitter.

Then what you do is go to "Digikey" and search for a amp gain block that matches the requirements.

Get some sample parts.


Since the key fod only turns on when you press the button, I'm sure we don't have to worry about power drain. By adding a second gain block stage, you may need to replace the battery at twice the interval.

 

<chuckle> If it were only so simple. I haven't opened the stock Honda fob, but 98% chance they're using an all-in-one chip, like the kind made by MicroChip or Intersil...these days there's no reason to do otherwise, considering the time/money spent on design, FCC verification, etc. The circuit layout is going to be a simple planar PCB loop. Frequency can be had by looking at the FCC ID # on the back of the fob, but it's going to be within a small range normally used for fobs.

In other words, there's not going to be a small sig-amp to attach to. Even if there was, trying to fit extra parts into the fob would be a test of patience for anyone. It's just not worth bothering with.

 

Like Mac said, its most likely the battery. As it ages, your range will get lower and lower. Also, if you guys want to try something cool....

Stick the remote almost entirely in your mouth.....then click unlock/lock. You will triple the range of the remote. Something about fillings in your teeth.....


Ask me how I know....