Automatic connection in constant need of repair

We're running cars with laptops running Win XP SP3. The design is that the cars go out collect data (mostly video) and return. The data/videos are uploaded via a wifi access point. All the cars are working but one. This one used to work at one point. The Wireless connection will not connect. It is configured the same as the others but acts differently.

When we start the computer next to the building, its supposed to automatically connect to our network. However, this one car doesn't. We've tried to connect manually, (Network connections, the selection the network, then select connect). It says it's configured for automatic but even selecting Connect nothing happens. We can click the repair feature and everthing jumps into action.

As soon as the connection is broken (drive out of range), the whole process has to be restarted. This car used to work, but has slowly lost the ability to connect without the repair. Meaning that at one point it worked well. Then it would connect only on start up of the computer, now it doesn't even do that.

I've searched for ways to correct this but haven't come across any thing that is a fix versus a work around.

Additional Information:
The block is checked in the advance setting of the connection to allow it to automatically connect. When we check this, it's always checked but if I uncheck it and then recheck it, it works for that one time.

 

I would try a $30 usb wireless dongle from your nearest computer or office supply store. Disable the current wireless adapter, install the dongle, see if the dongle will connect when in range. I find it really handy for diagnosis.

If it works you have the option of leaving the dongle or installing a new wireless adapter card with confidence and having the usb wireless as a backup or diagnostic for the future. Definitely costs less than what your time costs the company!