Weak alarm fob range.

[XCR]

My new to me '98 V70 T5 has a weak alarm fob or receiver.
I need to stand next to the car to lock and unlock.
I've changed the battery in the fob and its just the same.
Whats next ?

[Bob Meadows]

https://www.ebay.co.uk/sch/automobil...1&_ipg=&_from=

This company will repair your fob – Recommended as I had two done last year for a V70.
£18:00 each all in at the time.
You should also find a post relating to the same.
Regards Bob

[christheancient]

I did write up a tip on this; but blowed if I can find it!

And, I assume that the battery within is good.

Get an aerosol can of contact cleaner ordered (plenty on the 'net).

When you receive the cleaner you can start.

Split the key fob and remove the small circuit board within.

Do some blowing (with the mouth, not an airline) around the little button switches to get rid of any pocket/handbag fluff, biscuit crumbs etc.

Liberally spray (from the purchased can) around the switches... but do it outdoors!

Find a small (non-plastic) dish that will hold that circuit board. Place circuit board in said dish.

Spray enough from the can to cover the circuit board and leave to soak for 2-3 hours.

Fish the circuit board board out, give it another blasting with the aerosol. Let it air dry (doesn't take long) then re-assemble the fob.

All being well, you will get better range (if the batteries really are new!).

You may need to repeat if the switches are really gunged up.

[Bob Meadows]

christheancient: ~ I followed your post and tried the recommendations; unfortunately it didn’t work for me. The company I mention is spot on in terms of service 24hrs- the fob cases are also replaced and sent back complete. Initially sent one and when returned sent the second.
(The various parts for a DIY fix can also be purchased from this company)
Hope it helps-- Bob

[turboboy]

Some time ago there was a post about extending the receiver aerial to improve the range of the fob. I cannot find that now but basically it consisted of soldering a length of wire on to the receiver's aerial and laying it across the width of the car under the dash cover.

This worked for me, although it only extended the range to about a foot (from having to touch the fob against the windscreen) whereas a new battery and cleaning the fob board beforehand made no difference.

My problem now is that I only have one fob (but two keys) and I understand that the fob has to be coded to the car and can be quite expensive.

[XCR]

Thanks for all the advice guys, its much appreciated but, I'm none the wiser...

I'd read so many confusing and differing 'fixes' across the 'net that I thought I'd find a definitive model specific answer here.
I'm leaning towards having the guy in the link rebuild the fob and extend the range, I think.
Would it even be possible to code another fob from my existing one ?
That would give me a spare....

[Bob Meadows]

The repair as mentioned will give the range- or it did for me, if you do send in for repair tell them the problems you have.

Regarding the fob coding I believe that they must have the same code as the actual pick up unit under the dash.

•A new key would need the transponder coded to match the ignition & start the car.
•Coded keys can now be done by the likes of Timpson’s (cheaper than Volvo)

•If you just want a spare key that will open the door then a standard cut key is all that is needed and not expensive ie without a transponder.
Bob

[SteveSarre]

Hi Bob

I tried two local Timpsons about coding a chip for a 1998 V70 but they couldn't do it.

They can cut the physical key which will unlock the door lock and the steering lock, but cannot code the key chip to overcome the immobiliser.

I felt that getting a physical key cut was better than no second key at all if I lose the only key that I have. That way at least I can get into the vehicle, turn the wheels etc.

If you have had luck with Timpsons yourself, please let us know which branch and which year and model. Maybe they can code chips for early 850s etc - I don't know.

Thanks
Steve

[Bob Meadows]

https://www.timpson.co.uk/services/car-keys

Hi Steve: ~ the one I looked at is in Lytham (Lancashire) so a bit far- you can always call in for a cuppa!

However you should be able to locate the branches on line as they list car key cutting services- normal & coded (I believe these are run as franchise operations so some may not have invested in the facility?)

As an aside I have removed the transponder from a Vauxhall Corsa key and transfered it to another -- key type with a little red insert- this can be removed- I put a forum post on this some time back, a Timsons key then (Wigan) a real cheap solution being a cheap Lancashire lad!! still works fine ignition inc.
Regards Bob

[teleplayer]

Originally Posted by Bob Meadows

https://www.timpson.co.uk/services/car-keys

Hi Steve: ~ the one I looked at is in Lytham (Lancashire) so a bit far- you can always call in for a cuppa!

However you should be able to locate the branches on line as they list car key cutting services- normal & coded (I believe these are run as franchise operations so some may not have invested in the facility?)

As an aside I have removed the transponder from a Vauxhall Corsa key and transfered it to another -- key type with a little red insert- this can be removed- I put a forum post on this some time back, a Timsons key then (Wigan) a real cheap solution being a cheap Lancashire lad!! still works fine ignition inc.
Regards Bob

Yes, it occurred to me too late that as I still had the old broken key, I could have had a cheaper door-opener made and fixed it to the old transponder.
As I say, too late. We're pretty cheap in south London as well...