ford explorer 1997 key fob?

key fob will not work near radio ariels/masks, car will not start at all. Vehicle has to be moved away from the area, then it works again. Been to Fords for help, they suggested buying a new £200 key fob. They also told me they could not guarantee that it would work! Has anyone come across this problem before and what did you do to solve the problem please?

Brian C
July 2010