It can be incredibly frustrating when your key fob stops working, leaving you feeling locked out of your 2008 Subaru Impreza. Fortunately, replacing the battery in your Subaru Impreza key fob is a straightforward task you can easily handle yourself. No need to immediately schedule a service appointment; this guide will walk you through each step to get you back on the road quickly.
More Service How-To Guides Schedule Service
DIY 2008 Subaru Impreza Key Fob Battery Change
Subaru has used a few different key fob designs over the years. For your 2008 Impreza, you’ll likely have one of two main types. Don’t worry if you’re unsure which one you have; this guide covers both common styles. If you’re still uncertain, your owner’s manual is the best resource to identify your specific key fob. Once you know your key fob type, finding the right replacement battery is simple, and the steps below will guide you through the battery replacement process.
Let’s get started on replacing that dead battery in your 2008 Subaru Impreza key fob!
Replacing the Battery in a 2008 Subaru Impreza Rectangular Key Fob
Battery Type Required: CR2032
If your 2008 Subaru Impreza uses a rectangular, bulging key fob, these are the steps to replace its battery:
-
First, locate the small, silver tab on the rear of your key fob. Press and hold this tab to release and remove the metal emergency key.
-
Carefully open the key fob casing. You can gently pry it apart using your fingernail or a flathead screwdriver inserted into the seam running around the fob. Be gentle to avoid damaging the plastic.
-
After opening the fob, you’ll see the round, flat CR2032 battery. It might be located on top of or underneath the transmitter circuit board, depending on how the fob opened.
-
Remove the old battery. You may need to gently pry it loose. Install the new CR2032 battery, making sure the positive (+) side is facing upwards. Try to avoid touching the flat surfaces of the battery with your fingers; handling it by the edges is best.
-
Snap the two halves of the key fob casing back together until they click securely. Re-insert the metal emergency key. Your 2008 Subaru Impreza Key Fob Battery replacement is now complete!
Replacing the Battery in a 2008 Subaru Impreza Teardrop Key Fob
Battery Type Required: CR2025
If your 2008 Subaru Impreza uses an older, teardrop-shaped key fob, the process is very similar. The main difference is that the teardrop fob doesn’t have a removable emergency key. So, skip step one from the rectangular fob instructions above and proceed with the rest of the steps. Just be sure to use a CR2025 battery for the teardrop fob instead of the CR2032.
The remaining steps for opening the fob, replacing the battery, and reassembling the key fob are identical to those for the rectangular fob. Remember to handle the new CR2025 battery carefully and ensure correct polarity when installing.
What if a New Battery Doesn’t Fix the Problem?
If you’ve replaced the battery in your 2008 Subaru Impreza key fob and it’s still not working, the issue might be more than just a dead battery. In some cases, the key fob itself may need to be replaced or reprogrammed.
For security reasons, purchasing a new key fob often requires going through a Subaru dealership like Subaru North Orlando. They can ensure you get the correct fob for your 2008 Impreza and handle the necessary programming. Contact us if you suspect you need a new key fob or programming services.
While newer Subaru models with the rectangular key fob typically require dealership programming, owners of older models, including some 2008 Impreza versions (depending on the specific fob system), might be able to program a new or existing key fob at home.
How to Potentially Program Your 2008 Subaru Impreza Key Fob at Home (For Older Systems)
Please note: Home programming is not guaranteed to work for all 2008 Subaru Impreza models, especially those with more advanced security systems. Consult your owner’s manual or dealership for confirmation on whether your vehicle supports DIY programming.
If you want to try programming your key fob at home, here are general steps that have worked for some older Subaru models:
- Open your key fob to access the transmitter circuit board.
- Locate the first of the two 8-digit numbers printed on the circuit board. Write this number down for later use, then reassemble the key fob.
- Ensure your 2008 Impreza is turned off, and you are seated in the driver’s seat with all doors and windows closed.
- Open the driver’s side door.
- Use the door switch to unlock all doors.
- Insert your key into the ignition.
- Turn the ignition to the “accessory” position (lights on, engine off).
- Quickly repeat step 7 ten times in a row.
- If successful, the vehicle should chime.
- Open and close the driver’s side door once. The vehicle should chime again.
You now have a limited time (around 45 seconds) to complete the programming sequence:
- Recall the 8-digit number you wrote down.
- For each digit in the number, press the “lock” button that many times, followed by pressing the “unlock” button once between each digit sequence. For example, if the first digit is ‘4’, press “lock” four times, then “unlock” once. Repeat for each digit.
- If the sequence is entered correctly, the vehicle should chime again, and the door locks may engage.
- You can repeat the digit sequence process to confirm successful programming.
- Open and close the driver’s side door, then press the “lock” button on your key fob.
- Remove the key from the ignition. You should hear a final chime.
- Open and close the driver’s door again. After a few seconds, your key fob should hopefully be working.
- Test all buttons on your key fob to ensure it’s functioning correctly.
Still Having Trouble? Subaru North Orlando Can Help
If you encounter any difficulties replacing your 2008 Subaru Impreza key fob battery or with programming, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Subaru North Orlando. Our expert service team is ready to assist with battery replacements, key fob programming, and any other Subaru service needs you may have. Contact us today or schedule your service appointment online. And be sure to check out our current service specials for potential savings! We’re conveniently located in Sanford and serve customers throughout the Orlando area.
