For the last few years I have experienced the key fob not working sometimes. I wave owned the 2004 Coupe since new and it is strictly stock. On the occasions that it doesn't work, if I lock and unlock the car using the switch on the arm rest and the key fob starts working again. I have not noticed this happening under any specific weather conditions. It has done it when hot, cold, raining, dry sunny days. I had the car at the dealer when it first happened, but they couldn't replicate it. Has anyone have the same experience? If so what was done to correct it. I appreciate any feedback and thanks in advance.

 

Just to verify have you replaced the battery, and if you have multiple fobs does it do this for all of them with fresh batteries?

If you haven't tried a different fob, Autozone carries the Dorman fob which looks nearly identical and you can program the non-ikey fobs yourself. I don't think ikey was even offered in 2004 so it shouldn't be an issue.

If it does do this with each fob and fresh batteries try the "chin fob" trick to see if that works. No it's not bullshit, literally just touch the fob to your chin and press the button. I have no idea why it works but it increases the range of your fob by almost 30%, I'm sure it's not healthy but yes it actually works.

This could help identify if the problem is maybe an antenna issue with your vehicle and creating a stronger signal might be needed.

Also, if the unlock function still doesn't work what about the window open function of the fob, hold the unlock button for 2 seconds and it should begin to roll your windows down. Does that function work even when the locks won't? This will help narrow down if you actually have a BCM problem or a lock actuator problem, or something entirely different.

 

It now has stopped working for two days. Neither key fob with fresh batteries works, even with the chin trick and the windows do not open when holding the unlock button on the key fob. It appears as if it's not receiving a signal at all. I believe the receiver and antenna for the key fob is located behind the glove box somewhere. I will have to locate it and check the connections when I get a chance. Thanks for your help Cleric. I'll keep you posted with anything I find.

 

There's actually quite a few antennas in the car. Try to unlock it from the driver seat, the trunk area, the engine bay.

Each of those antennas has about a 3 ft range.