Remote not locking/unlocking after non-use

[NigelB]

Hello, My D40 key doesn't remote unlock. If I manually unlock and then go for a drive then the remote function does work for at least the next 5-10 minutes. Even from a long distance. 30 minutes later it won't work. I haven't changed any batteries etc. I'm not using it as much as I used to and I think the receiving sensor inside the vehicle might be the issue. Any suggestions?
If nothing I'll take it to an auto-electrician. Thank you

 

[Old.Tony]

I'd be changing the battery in the key fob first, an auto electrician is going to charge you $$ to change a $3 battery if that's all it is (and that's the usual culprit).

 

[NigelB]

Thank you. Will do that first.

 

[NigelB]

I've replaced the battery. no luck. Tried it a few ways.
Any thoughts on areas to focus on? I'll take it to my regular mechanic this week but good if you anyone has any hints. Thank you in advance.

 

[MANNING]

my first suggestion would have been the key battery aswell but if your not driving the car as much as you once had, could the car battery be also low?
do you have a way to externally charge the start battery? - volt meter to check the charge level? or can you take it for a good solid drive?

 

[NigelB]

Thank you. The ute starts without any problems each time. Its just the door locking/unlocking from the key. The lock/unlock button inside works fine when the ignition is on etc. Will tell my mechanic and let em try. Cheers.

 

[blueute]

Try a 2nd Key Fob if you have one, You did check the fuse? If thats good, I'd get something like a rubber mallet to give the door frame by the lock a gentle tapping whilst using the key fob You could take off the door cards and see if there's anything odd if the temp is lower than 25, use a heat gun on low to warm up the window motor winder parts to hand warm temp for about 5 minutes so the heat penetrates then tapping at same time as activating the door lock.
It may be jammed up with static friction if it hasn't been used frequently, also the grease will have hardened especially if you live in cooler climates. It will save the mechanic time too, Test winder motors with multimeter, see if any power gets to the motor when button is pressed.

 

[NigelB]

Try a 2nd Key Fob if you have one, You did check the fuse? If thats good, I'd get something like a rubber mallet to give the door frame by the lock a gentle tapping whilst using the key fob You could take off the door cards and see if there's anything odd if the temp is lower than 25, use a heat gun on low to warm up the window motor winder parts to hand warm temp for about 5 minutes so the heat penetrates then tapping at same time as activating the door lock.
It may be jammed up with static friction if it hasn't been used frequently, also the grease will have hardened especially if you live in cooler climates. It will save the mechanic time too, Test winder motors with multimeter, see if any power gets to the motor when button is pressed.

Thank you so much. Lots of ideas to check out.