I got a IR remote receiver (3 legs) and a IR diode.
I'm trying to measure distance between an object. It possible or would I have to have a photo diode?
What are you hoping to use to measure the distance? You do not get any analogue information from an IR receiver, just the pulses of the modulated IR signal that the diode sends.
IR distance measurement can be tricky, what distance are you wanting to measure?
This may be of use to you Adafruit VL6180X Time of Flight Distance Ranging Sensor (VL6180) [STEMMA QT] : ID 3316 : $13.95 : Adafruit Industries, Unique & fun DIY electronics and kits
I want to measure how close is my car when I pull in the garage, based on distance light 3 leds
An ultra sonic sensor like the HCSR04 would work for that application. Google "arduino hcsr04 garage parking" for articles like this one on building the parking sensor.
I just use a plank of wood on the floor, and when I "feel" my car touch that I don't drive anymore.
I don't wanna buy an ultrasonic sensor, Can this be done with photo diode?
pulse:
I don't wanna buy an ultrasonic sensor, Can this be done with photo diode?
Yes, but not yours. You'll have to buy new parts anyway, so go cheap with an ultrasonic or spend more on an IR distance sensor.
Calculating speed of light responses is more demanding than sound.
These are popular in such projects and not too expensive Infrared Proximity Sensor - Sharp GP2Y0A21YK - SEN-00242 - SparkFun Electronics
They work by detecting the return angle of the IR, which as you know will change with distance.