Revisiting Remote Keyless Entry Problems

[Zap]

I've done a bit of searching / reading again on the RKE system in the Gen II. The '94 has had issues with this for some time, and I'd love to resolve it if possible. Basically, the range is nonexistent. I've tried using another remote, and the problem isn't any better, so I suspect either the antenna is messed up or the module has a problem.

Can anyone tell me where the antenna runs? Does it just go along the inside of the trunk or elsewhere? It might be possible that it fell off if it is taped in place, and a curled up antenna isn't so great, so that could explain the bad range. It may also have a break in it or at the connector.

Otherwise, has anyone had poor range resolved by replacing the RKE module?

Thanks!

 

[kevinspann]

The antenna runs with the RKE wiring harness along the rocker panel, to approximately the bottom of the B pillar.


The remote is the transponder, all the RKE system does is receive signals. Have you made sure the antenna is fully seated into the side of the RKE module?

 

[Zap]

Yeah, I've already tried re-seating the connector a few times. It might be worth taking the module apart and making sure there isn't a cracked solder joint or something.

 

[kevinspann]

You could. Or swipe a module from another car and try it out...since you already plan to take it out anyways.

Edit: There isn't really anything that can go wrong with the antenna...it's just a copper wire with a connector on one end.

 

[Zap]

Well, I pulled the module apart the other day - turns out there is a variable inductor, so I twisted that back and forth a few times. I was able to program one of my other fobs, so it appears to be working again. For some reason, the fob that came with the car has issues, so I guess we'll need to get another one. At least for now, I'm considering this problem pretty much solved!