Are you struggling to program a new key fob for your 1998 Subaru Forester? You’re not alone. Many owners, particularly those outside the US, have found that the widely available online instructions simply don’t work for their models. After extensive searching and trial-and-error, we’ve compiled a straightforward guide specifically for 1998 Subaru Forester owners who are facing this frustrating issue, especially if you’re in Australia or have a non-US model. Forget the generic tutorials – here’s how to program your key fob correctly.
Method 1: Step-by-Step Programming Instructions
This method is reported to be effective for programming a 1998 Subaru Forester key fob, particularly for models outside of the US market. Follow these steps carefully:
- Access the Programming Circuitry: Locate and remove the lower trim cover in your Subaru Forester. This plastic piece is situated near where your right foot would rest while driving. It’s typically held in place by a single plastic plug and should detach easily.
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Connect the Pole Connector: You’ll see a set of plastic plugs, often referred to as a ‘pole connector,’ which should be unplugged by default. Connect this connector. This action activates the key fob programming circuitry in your 1998 Subaru Forester.
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Prepare the Door Lock: While the original instructions mention unlocking the driver’s side door using the power switch on the door handle, the exact door lock state (locked or unlocked, door open or closed) isn’t definitively specified. Experiment with both locked and unlocked states, with the door closed, to ensure success. A recommended approach is to lock and then unlock the driver’s door using the power lock switch.
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Initiate Programming with the Key Fob: Press any button on your key fob transmitter twice. Simultaneously, while pressing the fob button, use the driver’s door lock switch to unlock the door. You may need to repeat this step a few times for the system to register the signal.
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Confirmation of Registration: The door locks should automatically cycle – LOCK and then UNLOCK – to indicate successful key fob registration with your 1998 Subaru Forester’s system.
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завершение программирования и восстановление: Disconnect the white pole connector you connected in step 2. Replace the lower trim cover, ensuring it’s securely fastened.
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Programming Additional Key Fobs (Optional): If you have multiple key fobs to program, you can program up to 4 in total. Simply repeat steps 3 and 4 for each additional key fob immediately after successfully programming the first one.
Method 2: Alternative Programming Approach
If Method 1 does not work, try this slightly modified approach:
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Prepare for Programming: As in Method 1, remove the lower trim cover and connect the registration pole connectors to activate the programming mode.
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Unlock the Door: Ensure the driver’s door is unlocked using the power door lock switch.
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Transmit Key Fob Signal: Press any button on the key fob transmitter twice.
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Verify Registration: The door locks should cycle (lock and unlock) to confirm that the key fob has been successfully programmed.
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Final Steps: Disconnect the pole connector and reassemble the trim cover.
Important Notes and Context
These instructions are specifically tailored for the 1998 Subaru Forester, addressing the common issue that US-centric programming guides are often ineffective for non-US models. The original source of these instructions comes from practical experience and dedicated searching, highlighting the lack of readily available, accurate information for this specific vehicle and key fob type.
The key fob referenced in these instructions is visually identified in this link under the “For non US” section. It’s crucial to ensure your key fob matches this style for these programming methods to be applicable. While aftermarket key fobs might exist, their compatibility and programming procedures may vary, and these instructions are specifically for the OEM style fob.
For those seeking replacement key fobs or further assistance, consider reaching out to specialized vendors like ‘remote4cars’ on eBay. They specialize in older remotes and possess valuable knowledge regarding programming procedures for various car models, including the 1998 Subaru Forester. Their expertise can be particularly helpful if you encounter difficulties or need to source a replacement key fob.
We hope this guide provides clear and effective instructions for programming your 1998 Subaru Forester key fob, resolving the frustrations many owners face with inaccurate or incomplete online resources.
