I've got the factory single button remote and I've found the same thing. Sometimes I can activate it from 20-30 feet, but usually have to be next to the car. It also doesn't trigger everytime, and I have to hit the button a few times. I've found that you have to wait a second or two after the little LED on the remote goes out before retriggering. The receiver is in the left side kick panel in the driver's side foot well, so it works best if you're next to the driver's door.