My existing (original) keyless entry key fob has been losing power/distance for about 6 months - even standing close to the vehicle, I need to hold down the unlock fob button for a couple of seconds to get the doors to unlock. Thinking this was a failing battery, I replaced the battery. No improvement. The fob works but I need to be very close to the car and then push the unlock button multiple times with each time holding the button for a couple of seconds - same for lock and panic.

I've been told the problem is called shifting. Over time, from normal wear and tear, or being jostled, the remote's frequency gradually shifts in either direction away from the keyless entry receiver's frequency, causing decreased range and efficiency in operating the system.

Is there any fix to this other than just buying a new fob?

Thanks
Robert

 

First try reprograming the key fob. If you must get a new fob, when I bought my 97' it didn't have but one fob, wanting 2 I called Ford dealer and they wanted something like $50-$60. I then went on E-bay and picked one up for about $25 total shipping and all, it came with programming instructions an battery and it works great.