Is your Subaru key fob not working like it used to? Don’t worry, replacing the key fob battery is a simple task you can do yourself, especially if you have a Duracell battery on hand!
This guide will walk you through understanding your Subaru key fobs, the importance of maintaining its battery, and how to perform a Subaru key fob battery replacement, saving you time and money compared to visiting a dealership.
Understanding Subaru Key Fobs
If you need to change battery Subaru key fob, the process is straightforward: pop open the fob, replace the CR2032 battery with a fresh one, and reassemble to restore reliable remote locking and panic functions.
Regularly changing the battery in your Subaru key fob prevents lockouts and ensures consistent performance of keyless entry features.
What is a Key Fob?
A key fob is a small, handheld remote control device that provides keyless entry to your vehicle, commonly found in new Subaru models. This keyless entry offers convenience, allowing you to unlock and lock your doors, and sometimes even start your car, with the push of a button.
Key fobs use radio frequency signals to communicate with your vehicle’s system, making access quick and easy. If your vehicle’s battery is dead you can still use the metal key for entry.
Types of Subaru Key Fobs
Subaru models come with varying key fob designs, each requiring slightly different methods for battery replacement, including the CR2025 and CR1620 types. The key fob type can vary from older Subaru key fobs to newer Subaru key fobs, and across different models like the Subaru Outback, Subaru Forester, Subaru Crosstrek, Subaru Ascent, and Subaru WRX. Some key fobs include an emergency key, while others are purely electronic.
Always refer to your owner’s manual to identify your specific key fob and its battery replacement procedure, including the recommended battery types like 2025 or 2032.
Importance of Key Fob Battery Maintenance
Maintaining your key fob battery is crucial to ensure consistent and reliable access to your vehicle. A low battery can lead to decreased range, intermittent functionality, or a complete failure of the keyless entry system.
Regular key fob battery replacement prevents the inconvenience of being locked out of your car or struggling to start it, especially in emergencies. Keep an eye out for warning signs indicating a dead battery so you can change the battery promptly.
When to Replace Your Subaru Key Fob Battery
Signs Your Battery is Dying
Here are some telltale signs that the battery might be low in your Subaru key fob, indicating it might be time for a replacement. Keep an eye out for these indicators:
- A decreased range: Having to be significantly closer to your car to unlock the doors suggests a weakening battery.
- Intermittent functionalityThis means the key fob works sporadically, which can be frustrating and is often a sign that the battery needs to be replaced.
In some newer Subaru models, the dashboard may even display a warning message. Ignoring these signs can lead to complete failure, leaving you unable to use the keyless entry.
Frequency of Key Fob Battery Replacement
The frequency with which you’ll need to perform a Subaru key fob battery replacement depends on several factors, including usage and environmental conditions. On average, the battery life of a key fob is about one to two years.
If you use your key fobs frequently or live in an area with extreme temperatures, you may need to change the battery more often, particularly if you notice signs that the battery is weakening. Regularly checking for signs of a low battery can help you avoid unexpected issues. It’s always a good idea to keep a spare battery on hand.
Specifics for Subaru Outback Key Fobs
The Subaru Outback key fob, like many other Subaru models, typically uses a CR2032 coin battery. However, varying key fob designs exist, so it’s always best to consult your owner’s manual to confirm the correct battery type. To change the battery in your Outback key fob, you’ll usually need a small flathead screwdriver to pry open the key fobs casing.
Carefully remove the old battery and insert the new battery, ensuring the correct side is facing up. If you have an outback key fob with a metal key you might have to remove the metal key before being able to open it.
Step-by-Step Guide to Change the Battery
Follow this clear step-by-step guide to change battery Subaru key fob: remove the mechanical key, pry open the fob case with a flat tool, replace the old coin cell with a matching new battery (usually CR2032), reassemble the case, and test the buttons to ensure the key fob works properly.
Tools You’ll Need
Before starting your Subaru key fob battery replacement, ensure you have the necessary tools. You’ll definitely want to have these items handy:
- A small flathead screwdriver can help pry open the key fob’s casing without damage, making it easier to see the battery.
- A new CR2032 coin battery, or whichever battery type is specified in your owner’s manual.
Having a small Phillips head screwdriver might be required for some newer Subaru models, and a soft cloth can protect the key fob’s surface while you handle the exposed metal key.
How to Open Your Subaru Key Fob
To open your Subaru key fob, first, locate the small notch or seam on the key fobs casing. Insert the flathead screwdriver into this notch and gently pry the key fobs halves apart.
For some models, you may need to slide or remove the metal key first. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, as this could damage the key fobs components. If you have an emergency key, remove it. Once open, you’ll see the old battery.
Replacing the Battery with CR2032
With the Subaru key fob open, carefully remove the old battery. Note the side facing up, as the new battery needs to be inserted in the same orientation. The Subaru key battery is often a CR2032 lithium coin battery. Insert the new CR2032 battery, ensuring the correct side is facing up. Align the key fobs halves and gently snap them back together. Test the key fob to ensure it works before using it.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If your Subaru key fob is acting up, a quick way to resolve many problems is to change battery Subaru key fob — replacing the CR2032 battery often restores range, responsiveness, and eliminates intermittent locking or unlocking issues without needing a dealer visit.
Key Fob Not Working After Battery Change
If your Subaru key fob is not working after you change the battery, double-check that the battery is inserted correctly, with the correct side facing up. Ensure that the battery type matches what’s specified in your owner’s manual; some Subaru models may use a CR2025 or a CR1620 lithium coin battery. Clean the battery contacts inside the key fob with a cotton swab to ensure a good connection.
Resetting Your Subaru Key Fob
Sometimes, after a Subaru key fob battery replacement, the keyless entry system may need to be reset. Consult your owner’s manual for detailed instructions on how to reset your key fob. Typically, this involves turning the ignition on and off a few times, or pressing a combination of buttons on the key fobs while inside the vehicle. The newer Subaru often reset automatically.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you’ve tried all troubleshooting steps and your Subaru key fob still isn’t working, it may be time to seek professional help from a Subaru service center or a dealership.
The problem could be with the key fobs internal components or the vehicle’s receiver. Attempting to repair a damaged key fob yourself could cause further damage. A replacement key or key fobs programming might be necessary with a replacement key.
