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I have a 79 with power door locks and a keyless entry. I have to hit the button numerous times sometimes to get the unit to unlock or lock the doors. I have replaced the batteries in the remote but that must not be the problem. Where is the transmitter/receiver unit located? Has anyone had this problem before?
If you've got a remote keyless entry on a 79 it's an aftermarket unit & could be installed almost anywhere. Most shops will locate the box under the dash (usually above the fusebox). I installed one on my 68 and found room for it in the center console shifter area. You could also check in the rear storage compartments / by the battery.
I know this isn't much help but you'll kind of have to hunt for it because it wasn't installed by GM.
So, your saying my remote transmitts to a box which applies power to my door locks? I found a box under the console by the shifter. You think the problem is that box? I wasn't sure if GM put the remote in and then the after market security system piggy backed their alarm unit to it. You say that the only thing that GM supplied is the Power Door Locks and those are "key only" from the outside. Another thing I've noticed is that if I use the power door lock switch mounted on the door, the passenger side door lock moves a little but not all the way. But if I use the remote it does close and open - only slowly. Any thoughts??
If you have an aftermarket remote system there might be a second actuator connected to the locking mechanism that is more powerful than the original actuator. That would explain the difference in lock behavior when using the key. In any event it sounds like that lock mechanism is due for cleaning and lubricating.
Some remotes work by unlocking just the driver's door with the first push of the button and the remainig doors with a second push. Could that be what is happening with your system?
Well, the problem is fixed. It wound up being the remote control. My wife was holding on to the other one I have for the car. I took it and it works great.