Experiencing trouble programming a new key fob for your 2009 Subaru Forester? You’re not alone. Many Subaru owners encounter difficulties when trying to add an extra key fob, especially after purchasing a used vehicle or needing a replacement. While the process is designed to be DIY-friendly, several factors can lead to frustration. This guide will walk you through the programming steps, troubleshoot common issues, and help you successfully program your 2009 Subaru Forester key fob.
Understanding the Key Fob Programming Process for Your 2009 Forester
Programming a key fob for a 2009 Subaru Forester involves a specific sequence of actions that puts your vehicle into programming mode. This process allows you to register new key fobs with your car’s security system. The method typically involves using the driver’s side door and the ignition to initiate the programming sequence, followed by entering an identification code from your key fob.
Step-by-Step DIY Key Fob Programming for 2009 Subaru Forester
Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide to programming your 2009 Subaru Forester key fob. Follow these instructions carefully to ensure success:
- Get in the Driver’s Seat: Ensure all doors are closed and unlocked. You should be seated in the driver’s seat to perform these steps.
- Open and Close Driver’s Door: Perform this action once. This is the first step to initiate the programming sequence.
- Ignition Cycling: This is a crucial step. Insert your key into the ignition and turn it to the ‘ON’ position (without starting the engine) and then back to the ‘OFF’ position rapidly, ten times in a row. You should hear an interior chime after the tenth cycle, and the dome lights may start flashing. This indicates you’ve successfully entered programming mode.
- Open and Close Driver’s Door Again: After the ignition cycling, open and close the driver’s door one more time. You should hear an exterior chime, confirming the system is ready for key fob programming.
- Enter the Key Fob Identification Code: Locate the 8-digit identification number inside your key fob. You’ll use a Morse code-style method to enter this code using the ‘UNLOCK’ button on your current working key fob (or the new one you are trying to program). For each digit of the 8-digit code:
- Press the ‘LOCK’ button the number of times corresponding to the digit (e.g., press ‘LOCK’ once for ‘1’, twice for ‘2’, etc., up to eight times for ‘8’. For ‘0’, press ‘LOCK’ ten times).
- After pressing the ‘LOCK’ button the correct number of times for a digit, press the ‘UNLOCK’ button once to enter that digit and move to the next.
- Repeat for All Eight Digits: Repeat step 5 for all eight digits of your key fob’s identification code.
- Confirmation: After entering the eighth digit and pressing ‘UNLOCK’, the door locks should cycle (lock then unlock) automatically. This indicates successful programming. If you are programming multiple fobs, repeat steps 5-7 immediately for each additional fob.
- Exit Programming Mode: Once you have programmed all desired key fobs, turn the ignition to the ‘ON’ position to exit programming mode. Test all programmed key fobs to ensure they are working correctly by locking and unlocking the doors and activating other functions like the liftgate and panic button.
Troubleshooting Common 2009 Subaru Forester Key Fob Programming Issues
Even when following the steps precisely, you might encounter issues. Here are common problems and troubleshooting tips specific to programming a 2009 Subaru Forester key fob:
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Door Lock Jam: As highlighted in the original query, a jammed driver’s side door lock can be a significant problem. While the programming process primarily uses door sensors and the electronic system, a mechanical issue might interfere with the system’s ability to register commands correctly. Ensure your door locks are functioning mechanically and electronically. Try lubricating the door lock cylinder with WD-40 or similar lubricant to see if it frees up.
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Used vs. New Key Fobs: The original poster used a used OEM key fob from eBay. While used fobs can be programmed, there’s always a risk they might be faulty or incompatible. Ensure the used fob you purchased has the correct FCC ID (NHVWB1U711) and IC number (3495A-WB1U71) for your 2009 Subaru Forester. Sometimes, used fobs may have internal damage or battery issues even if they appear to be in good condition. Consider trying a brand new OEM or compatible aftermarket key fob if you continue to face issues with used ones.
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Incorrect Programming Sequence: The timing and sequence of steps are critical. Ensure you are performing the ignition cycling and door opening/closing at a consistent and reasonably rapid pace. If the dome lights don’t flash after ignition cycling, or you don’t hear the exterior chime after opening and closing the door the second time, you may not have entered programming mode correctly. Restart the process from step 1 and try again.
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Battery Issues (Key Fob and Car): Although the original poster tested the batteries in the replacement fobs, ensure you are using fresh, high-quality batteries. Also, a low car battery can sometimes cause issues with electronic systems. Make sure your Subaru’s battery is in good condition.
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Compatibility Problems: Even if the FCC ID and IC numbers match, there’s a small chance a used fob might not be fully compatible. If you’ve tried multiple used fobs without success, consider purchasing a new OEM key fob from a Subaru dealer or a reputable online retailer specializing in car keys and remotes.
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“Locks Not Cycling” Issue: The original poster mentioned the locks not cycling after entering the code. This usually indicates an error in code entry or a failure to properly enter programming mode. Double-check the 8-digit code and ensure you are entering it correctly using the Morse code-style method with the ‘LOCK’ and ‘UNLOCK’ buttons. Listen carefully for beeps confirming each button press as mentioned in the original post, as these can provide feedback on whether the system is registering your inputs.
Subaru Key Fob
Alt text: Close-up of a 2009 Subaru Forester key fob with four buttons including lock, unlock, trunk, and panic, highlighting the button layout and design.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you’ve meticulously followed these steps, tried troubleshooting common issues, and still cannot program your 2009 Subaru Forester key fob, it might be time to seek professional help. Subaru dealerships have specialized tools and diagnostic equipment to program key fobs and diagnose any underlying issues with your car’s keyless entry system. Alternatively, a qualified automotive locksmith with experience in Subaru vehicles can also assist you with key fob programming and related problems, potentially at a lower cost than a dealership.
Conclusion
Programming a key fob for your 2009 Subaru Forester should be a straightforward DIY task. By carefully following the steps outlined in this guide and systematically troubleshooting potential problems, you can often successfully program a new key fob yourself. However, if you encounter persistent issues, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance to ensure your vehicle’s security system functions correctly and you have reliable access to your vehicle.
