Lost your key fob or need to program a new one for your 2005 Subaru Legacy? You’re in the right place. Programming your key fob yourself can save you time and money compared to dealership services. This guide provides clear, step-by-step instructions to program your 2005 Subaru Legacy key fob quickly and efficiently.
Before you begin, it’s important to understand the type of key fob you have. For the 2005 Subaru Legacy, there are typically two styles of key fobs, often referred to as Remote A and Remote B. Remote A allows for complete programming, while Remote B may only program the remote functions, potentially requiring dealer intervention for key cutting and transponder programming to start the car.
To identify your key fob type and prepare for programming, you’ll need to locate the 8-digit ID number inside your remote. Here’s how:
- Access the ID Number: Depending on your key fob style, use a small bladed screwdriver or Phillips head screwdriver to carefully open the back cover.
- Locate the 8-Digit Code: Inside the remote, find the ID number. It will be an 8-digit sequence of numbers. If you see two rows of numbers, use the row that contains only numbers, without any letters. Write this number down as you will need it for the programming sequence.
Now that you have your ID number and understand your key fob, let’s proceed with the programming steps. Ensure you follow these instructions carefully for successful programming of your 2005 Subaru Legacy key fob.
Programming Steps for Your 2005 Subaru Legacy Key Fob:
- Prepare Your Vehicle: Make sure all doors, including the trunk or hatch, are completely closed.
- Get in the Driver’s Seat: Enter your Subaru Legacy and close the driver’s side door. It is crucial that all doors remain shut throughout the programming process.
- Enter Programming Mode: This step needs to be performed quickly. Turn the ignition key from the “LOCK” position to the “ON” position 10 times within 15 seconds. “ON” is the position just before you would crank the engine to start. Do not start the engine.
- Confirm Programming Mode: If you have successfully entered programming mode, your Subaru Legacy will signal with flashing lights and an audible tone. This confirms the vehicle is ready to learn the new key fob signal. If you don’t see the lights flash or hear the tone, exit the vehicle, ensure all doors are closed, and repeat step 3.
- Door Confirmation: Open and then close the driver’s side door. This action confirms to the system that you are continuing with the programming sequence. The audible tone should continue, indicating the system is still in programming mode.
- Enter the 8-Digit Code: Using the door lock button on the driver’s side door panel, you will now enter the 8-digit ID code you retrieved from your key fob. For each digit in the code, press the “LOCK” button the corresponding number of times, followed by pressing the “UNLOCK” button once to move to the next digit. For example, if your code is 12345678, you would do the following:
- Press “LOCK” once, then press “UNLOCK”.
- Press “LOCK” twice, then press “UNLOCK”.
- Press “LOCK” three times, then press “UNLOCK”.
- Continue this pattern for all eight digits of your code.
- Repeat Code Entry: You must repeat step 6 and enter the 8-digit code a second time. After entering the eighth digit for the second time, you should hear a tone that lasts for approximately 30 seconds. This tone indicates successful programming.
- Program Additional Remotes (Optional): If you have additional key fobs to program, repeat steps 3 through 7 for each additional remote immediately after completing the first one and while the system is still in programming mode (indicated by the tone).
- Exit Programming Mode: If you have programmed all desired key fobs, simply remove the key from the ignition. The programming process is now complete. Test each key fob to ensure they lock and unlock your doors correctly.
Troubleshooting Tips:
- Timing is Key: The ignition turning sequence in step 3 needs to be done quickly and within the 15-second timeframe.
- Door Closure: Ensure all doors are firmly closed throughout the process.
- Code Accuracy: Double-check the 8-digit ID number and ensure you are entering it correctly using the lock button.
- Repeat if Necessary: If the programming doesn’t work on the first try, don’t worry. Simply start the process again from step 1. It may take a couple of attempts to get it right.
If you encounter persistent issues programming your 2005 Subaru Legacy key fob, or if you prefer professional assistance, you can search for a local key fob programming service. Enter your city or zip code online to find a qualified technician near you who can assist with key fob programming and other automotive key services.
By following these detailed steps, you should be able to successfully program your 2005 Subaru Legacy key fob and regain full remote access to your vehicle.
