Security system

Solved my programming issues for new remotes, but their operation was eratic. The Sube Tech said this was a problem due to the shelf age of the remotes. I replaced yesterday with KeyLess Ride branded remotes and they at least work consistently. However, both the factory and the KeyLess remotes only have a range of 15 to 20 feet. Is that normal? Is there any way to increase the range? Also, is there any info on installing another security unit that uses the SVX wiring harness?

[intelisevil]

I also bought a KeylessRide remote when I got my SVX. It works great but 20 feet seems to be about the maximum distance.

[kuoh]

Yup the short range and inconsistency of the remote is normal for the early OEM models, probably due to a combination of the windshield coating and the security module being buried in the dash. The later models had it moved to the trunk, but I don't know if the range improved. If you're set on keeping the factory security module, you could try extending the antenna wire and run it up the A pillar. I simply replaced mine with an aftermarket Alpine system and get ranges from 50-300+ feet depending on my altitude compared to the car. I've been able to hit the car from inside the 6th or 7th floor of a building.

If no one has messed with your security module, it should still have the wiring sticker attached. If not, I'm pretty sure it has come up here before and you should be able to find the thread with pics or wire color guide.

KuoH

Originally Posted by ruffyone

I replaced yesterday with KeyLess Ride branded remotes and they at least work consistently. However, both the factory and the KeyLess remotes only have a range of 15 to 20 feet. Is that normal?

[SSSVX]

Originally Posted by kuoh

Yup the short range and inconsistency of the remote is normal for the early OEM models, probably due to a combination of the windshield coating and the security module being buried in the dash.
KuoH

So kuoh,

Can I say the cellphones won't be working as good in an SVX compare to in other cars with different windshields?

[svxcess]

There is the well-documented method for increasing the range of the SVX remote. On the network it is referred to as the "chin trick".

For more information do a search, using the term chin trick

Seriously, hold your remote between your thumb and forefinger and hold the bottom of the remote to your chin, lettin the key hang freely. Press the button and see what happens.

It seems that the antenna in the remote, which is part of the keyring, doesn't always work well, depending on how its held. Many of us use this trick and double or triple our range (but it looks strange to passers-by)


.

[kuoh]

I wouldn't say that, since the antenna is normally above the hoodline and there are many uncoated windows as well as the cell tower handoff system which will comphensate for any reduction in forward range. Also cellphones transmit at somewhere between .5 to 1 watt of power, more than enough to reach a cell tower even through several walls. Your remote transmitter probably has less than 1/100th of that power and a much less sensitive receiver.

If you have doubts that the windshield is effective at blocking RF, find a cheap GPS, the older the better, and put it right in the center of the dash and see for yourself. I tried one of the first generation Garmins back around 95 or 96 and found that it got no reception in front, but did reasonably ok around the back. Even my current Delorme Tripmate can't get a good lock on the dash but works fine on the rear deck.

KuoH

Originally Posted by SSSVX

Can I say the cellphones won't be working as good in an SVX compare to in other cars with different windshields?

[ensteele]

With my older generation GPS, I had to go to an exterior antenna in order to get a good signal. I have never had any problems with cell phones.

[ensteele]

Originally Posted by svxcess

There is the well-documented method for increasing the range of the SVX remote. On the network it is referred to as the "chin trick".

For more information do a search, using the term chin trick

Seriously, hold your remote between your thumb and forefinger and hold the bottom of the remote to your chin, lettin the key hang freely. Press the button and see what happens.

It seems that the antenna in the remote, which is part of the keyring, doesn't always work well, depending on how its held. Many of us use this trick and double or triple our range (but it looks strange to passers-by)


.

John

You didn't mention that if you open your mouth and stick out your tounge that it can give you even more distance.

[Budfreak]

Ok. Number 1: Don't extend the antenna wire on the module. Alarm modules and such are usually tuned frequency systems meaning that there tuned to the antenna length they have and altering it can make it worse. To try for better reception, Find the antenna wire on the module and try to place it as vertical as possible and not touching metal any more than necessary. Good Luck. Let us know what works for you.

[SVXdc]

Originally Posted by ruffyone

... Also, is there any info on installing another security unit that uses the SVX wiring harness?

See this post by "PhatWeasel": After market alarm install document

I'm working on getting the connector that mates with the SVX's alarm harness, for a "plug-n-play" installation. Stay tuned for an update.