How To Replace Battery In Subaru Key Fob? Replacement Guide
Replacing your Subaru key fob battery is simple to do by yourself. Keeping your key fob in good shape is vital for your car to work right.
This guide gives you easy, step-by-step directions for changing the battery. This saves you time and money on service costs.
If your key fob isn’t working well, it’s probably time for a new battery. We’ll cover the different batteries that Subaru key fobs need.
You’ll learn when to know your battery is low and how to switch it out in old and new models. Whether you need a CR2032, CR2025, or CR1620 battery, we’ve got you covered.
This guide is here to boost your DIY skills, so you can change your key fob battery fast. Ready to fix your Subaru key fob? Let’s do this!
What is The Subaru Key Fob?
The Subaru key fob makes driving better by offering keyless entry system for your car. You can lock and unlock your car without touching it, adding both convenience and safety.
Learning about the Subaru key fob features improves how you use it. Most key fobs have buttons for locking, unlocking, and setting off a panic alarm.
Knowing how far you can be to use it, usually several hundred feet, is key. A key fob’s performance depends on its battery.
They often need CR2025 or CR2032 lithium coin cell batteries. The Subaru Forester (2009-2021) and Subaru Outback (2010-2021) need specific batteries, affecting how well they work.
Knowing about common problems, like signal loss or slow response, helps you keep your key fob working well. Changing the battery every 1 to 2 years prevents most issues.
A working key fob makes your Subaru more accessible and keeps important systems running smoothly.
Signs Your Subaru Key Fob Battery Is Low
Knowing when your Subaru key fob battery is low is key to keeping your car accessible. You might need to be closer than usual to unlock your car. This is a sign the battery is getting weak.
If your key fob is slow to respond, or the LED lights are dim or flickering, it’s time to think about a replacement. Did you know that 30% of key fob problems are due to a low battery?
Checking your battery regularly helps avoid trouble and keeps everything working right. Being quick to notice these signs helps avoid stress and keeps your car running smoothly.
How To Replace Battery In Subaru Key Fob?
Changing your Subaru key fob’s battery is easy and quick. It takes about 5-10 minutes. First, gather the right tools for subaru key fob battery replacement. It’s important to know your key fob type to get the right battery.
Tools You Will Need
- 1 small flathead screwdriver
- 1 replacement battery, sized according to your key fob type
Identifying Your Key Fob Type
Before you start, identifying key fob type is key. Subaru key fobs vary in style. The battery type depends on your model:
| Key Fob Style | Battery Type |
|---|---|
| Newer rectangular-shaped key fob | CR2032 |
| Older teardrop-shaped key fob | CR2025 |
| Older metal key with buttons | CR1620 |
With the right battery replacement tools and knowing your key fob type, you’ll be set for success. This will make the battery change smooth.
Replacing Battery in Newer Subaru Key Fobs
Changing the battery in a newer Subaru key fob is easy if you know how. By doing it right, you save time and money. It also makes your key fob work like new again.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by using a small flathead screwdriver to gently release the key shank from the fob.
- Locate the seam of the key fob and carefully pry it open using the screwdriver; take care not to damage the casing.
- Once opened, observe the old battery’s orientation and remove it, noting which side is facing up.
- Insert the new subaru key fob CR2032 battery in the same orientation as the old one.
- Snap the fob back together and reinsert the key shank securely.
- Conduct a test by pressing the lock and unlock buttons to ensure the fob is functioning correctly.
Battery Type and Size Information
The CR2032 is the battery you’ll need for newer Subaru models. You can find this battery easily at stores, which makes replacement simple and not pricey.
Make sure the battery faces the right way when you put it in. This stops the key fob from not working right. Usually, a new battery fixes any issues, getting your key fob back in shape.
| Key Fob Type | Battery Size |
|---|---|
| Newer Rectangular Key Fob | CR2032 |
| Older Teardrop Key Fob | CR2025 |
| Older Metal Key with Buttons | CR1620 |
Replacing Battery in Older Subaru Key Fobs
Changing the battery in older Subaru key fobs is easy, especially the teardrop style. Just know the right battery type and have the tools ready.
These steps will guide you to replace the CR2025 battery easily without expert help.
Step-by-Step Instructions For Teardrop Styles
- Locate the silver tab on the back of the older Subaru key fob teardrop style. This tab is essential for releasing the glove box key.
- Using a small flathead screwdriver, insert the tool into the gap between the front and back of the key fob. Gently pry it open to access the battery compartment.
- Remove the old battery, taking note of its orientation. The new CR2025 battery should be installed in the same direction to ensure proper functionality.
- Insert the new battery carefully, ensuring it sits snugly in the compartment.
- Reassemble the key fob by snapping the two halves back together until you hear a click, indicating that it is secure.
By following these steps, you’ll find it easy to replace the battery in older Subaru key fobs, keeping your car’s security intact.
Should you encounter any issues after replacing the CR2025 battery, consider reprogramming or consult your local Subaru dealer for further assistance.
Replacing Battery in Subaru Key Fob with Exposed Metal Key
For models like the 2014 to 2018 Subaru Forester with an exposed metal key, changing the battery is simple.
Start by gently splitting the key fob into two using a small flathead screwdriver or a plastic tool. Be careful to use light pressure to avoid harming the fob’s inside parts.
Open the fob, and you’ll find the CR1620 battery. It’s a 3-volt lithium cell, usually with a thin layer of grease for better connection and to stop rust.
Handle the old battery carefully as you take it out. Put in the new CR1620 battery, making sure it’s placed right. Paying attention to how the battery fits is key for the fob to work well.
Then, put the fob’s parts back together, checking that everything clicks into place. Replacing the battery gets your key fob working right again, and it helps keep your Subaru secure.
You can lock and unlock your car easily. Also, logging this change helps you keep up with your car’s maintenance.
What To Do If Your Subaru Key Fob Battery Is Dead?
If your Subaru key fob battery dies, you might worry about getting into your car and starting it. But, there are other ways to start your Subaru, so you can drive again easily. Let’s look at what you can do in this situation.
Alternative Starting Methods
First, take the metal key out of the key fob. Use this key to unlock your car door. The alarm might go off, but you can stop it. To start the car, keep the key fob near the start button.
Pressing the start button with the fob close by often works. About 70% of problems with key fobs are because of dead batteries. Using the metal key works about 90% of the time.
If you make sure the key fob is right next to the start button, your chances of starting the car almost reach 95%.
Knowing how to start your car this way makes you ready for battery issues. Remember, changing your key fob battery improves its function and solves problems with the keyless entry.
Conclusion
Taking care of your Subaru key fob is super important. About 70% of key fob problems come from a dead battery. Learning to replace it yourself makes you a more independent car owner.
You can swap out the battery in less than 10 minutes, so you don’t need to pay someone else to do it. For the replacement, you’ll need a CR2032 battery, which is easy to find.
Changing the battery yearly helps avoid problems like unresponsive buttons or a weak signal. This simple step can make your key fob last up to 50% longer.
This guide gives you easy steps to replace your key fob battery. Keeping your key fob in good shape means fewer worries. It makes your drives smoother and keeps you ready for the day.
FAQs
What type of battery do I need for my Subaru key fob?
For newer Subaru key fobs, you need a CR2032 battery. Older teardrop styles use a CR2025. If your key shows the metal part, it likely needs a CR1620 battery.
How do I know if my Subaru key fob battery is low?
You’ll notice the range for unlocking gets worse. Button presses might not work right away. Also, there might be no sound or lights when using the fob.
Can I replace the Subaru key fob battery myself?
Yes, you can easily replace your Subaru key fob battery. This guide offers step-by-step help.
What tools do I need to replace the battery in my Subaru key fob?
All you need is a small flathead screwdriver. And of course, the right battery for your fob.
What if my Subaru key fob battery dies unexpectedly?
If your key fob battery dies, don’t worry. Use the metal key to unlock your car. You can also start the car by putting the fob close to the start button.
How often should I replace the battery in my Subaru key fob?
It’s smart to check your key fob battery every year. Replace it if you see it’s not working as well.
Where can I buy a replacement battery for my Subaru key fob?
Replacement batteries are available at many stores or online. Get a CR2032, CR2025, or CR1620 based on your fob type.
Is there a risk of damaging my Subaru key fob when replacing the battery?
There’s little risk if you follow the guide and use proper tools. Always be gentle with the parts during the battery change.
