Is your 2010 Subaru Forester key fob suddenly refusing to cooperate? You’re not alone. A non-responsive key fob can be a major inconvenience, leaving you locked out or unable to start your vehicle remotely. As experts at keyfobprog.com, we understand the frustration and are here to guide you through diagnosing and resolving the issue. This comprehensive guide will explore the common reasons why your 2010 Subaru Forester key fob might not be working and provide actionable solutions to get you back on the road.
Many 2010 Subaru Forester owners experience key fob malfunctions, and the causes can range from simple fixes to more complex component failures. Understanding the potential culprits is the first step towards resolving the problem efficiently and cost-effectively. Let’s delve into the troubleshooting process.
Common Reasons Why Your 2010 Subaru Forester Key Fob Might Fail
Before assuming the worst, it’s essential to consider the most common and easily resolvable causes for a malfunctioning key fob. These often include:
- Dead Battery: This is the most frequent culprit. Key fobs rely on small batteries to transmit signals. Over time, these batteries deplete and need replacement.
- Key Fob Damage: Accidental drops, exposure to moisture, or general wear and tear can damage the internal components of your key fob, leading to malfunction.
- Synchronization Issues: Sometimes, the key fob and your Subaru’s onboard computer system can lose synchronization, preventing proper communication.
- Body Integrated Unit (BIU) Problems: The BIU is a crucial module that controls various electronic functions, including the keyless entry system. A faulty BIU can disrupt key fob operation.
- Immobilizer System Issues: The immobilizer is an anti-theft system that requires the key fob’s transponder chip to be recognized for the engine to start. Problems within this system can lead to key fob starting failures.
Diagnosing the Key Fob Issue: A Step-by-Step Approach
To effectively address the “2010 Subaru Forester Key Fob Not Working” issue, a systematic diagnostic approach is necessary. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you pinpoint the problem:
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Battery Check and Replacement: Begin with the simplest solution. Replace the battery in your key fob with a fresh one of the correct type (usually CR2032). Ensure you install it with the correct polarity. After replacement, test the key fob’s functionality.
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Visual Inspection of the Key Fob: Carefully examine the key fob for any signs of physical damage. Look for cracks, broken buttons, or evidence of moisture ingress. If damage is apparent, internal components might be affected.
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Spare Key Fob Test: If you have a spare key fob, test if it works. If the spare fob functions correctly, the issue likely lies with your primary key fob. If neither fob works, the problem might be with the vehicle’s system.
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Dealer Diagnosis and the BIU Factor: If the basic checks don’t resolve the issue, seeking professional diagnosis is advisable. Subaru dealerships have specialized diagnostic tools to pinpoint the root cause. As one owner experienced with a 2009 Forester, a dealer’s diagnosis might reveal a “SCANNER WOULD NOT COMMUNICATE WITH BIU” error. This indicates a potential problem with the Body Integrated Unit (BIU).
Understanding the BIU and Its Role in Key Fob Operation
The Body Integrated Unit (BIU) is a central control module in your 2010 Subaru Forester. It manages various electronic systems, including:
- Keyless Entry System: The BIU receives signals from your key fob to lock and unlock doors remotely.
- Immobilizer System: It interacts with the immobilizer system to verify the key’s transponder chip before allowing the engine to start.
When a BIU malfunctions, it can disrupt communication with the key fob, leading to a “2010 subaru forester key fob not working” scenario. Replacing the BIU can be a necessary but potentially costly repair.
BIU Replacement: What to Expect
Based on the experience of a Subaru Forester owner, BIU replacement involves several key aspects:
- New BIU Requirement: A salvaged BIU from another vehicle is generally not compatible as it’s “one-shot” paired with the original car’s Engine Control Unit (ECU) and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). You typically need a new, unprogrammed BIU.
- Immobilizer System Integration: Replacing the BIU necessitates new immobilizer chips as the BIU and ECU are linked for security. This means your old keys’ immobilizer chips will no longer be compatible with the new BIU for starting the engine.
- Key Programming: After BIU replacement, new keys or existing key fobs need to be programmed to the new BIU to restore keyless entry and immobilizer functionality. Dealers use specialized scanners to perform this programming.
Cost Considerations and Potential Savings
Dealing with a “2010 subaru forester key fob not working” issue, especially if it involves BIU replacement, can be expensive. The original poster in the forum encountered a $1400 quote from a dealer initially. However, understanding the cost breakdown can help you explore potential savings:
- Diagnosis Charge: Dealers typically charge a diagnosis fee (around $130 in the example) to identify the problem.
- New BIU Cost: The BIU unit itself can be a significant expense (around $381 in the example).
- Key and Immobilizer Programming: Programming new keys and immobilizer chips adds to the cost (key code $10, new cut key with immobilizer programming $110 in the example).
- Labor Costs: Installation and programming labor will also contribute to the total bill.
To potentially save money:
- Negotiate with Dealers: As the original poster demonstrated by securing a “Goodwill Parts & Service Coupon,” negotiating with Subaru of America or dealerships might yield discounts, especially if you feel the initial quote is excessively high.
- Supply Your Own Keys: You can purchase aftermarket keys online and have them cut at a local hardware store for a fraction of the dealer’s key cutting cost. However, ensure they are compatible with your 2010 Forester and have blank immobilizer transponder chips.
- Program Multiple Keys at Once: Since all keys need to be present during programming, plan to program all your desired keys (up to four immobilizer chips can be set up) at the same time to avoid repeat programming fees.
DIY Key Fob Troubleshooting and Limitations
While some aspects of key fob troubleshooting, like battery replacement and visual inspection, can be done DIY, more complex issues like BIU replacement and immobilizer programming typically require professional dealer intervention. Programming keys to a new BIU necessitates specialized scanners and access to Subaru’s security systems, which are not generally available to the public.
Key Compatibility and Terminology Clarification
Understanding the terminology related to key fobs and immobilizer systems is crucial:
- Keyless Entry FOB: This refers to the remote fob with buttons for locking/unlocking doors.
- Immobilizer Transponder Chip: This is a small chip embedded in the key head that communicates with the immobilizer system to allow engine starting.
For the 2010 Subaru Forester, integrated key fobs (where the key and remote are combined) are common. It’s also worth noting that while some Subaru key fobs might look similar and have the same FCC ID, those used in immobilizer-based systems may have different encoding schemes compared to non-immobilizer systems, even if they operate on the same frequency. Therefore, ensure you are using the correct type of key fob for your 2010 Subaru Forester.
Conclusion: Getting Your 2010 Subaru Forester Key Fob Working Again
A “2010 subaru forester key fob not working” issue can stem from various causes, from a simple dead battery to a more complex BIU failure. By following a systematic troubleshooting approach, starting with basic checks and progressing to professional diagnosis when needed, you can effectively identify and resolve the problem. Understanding the role of the BIU and immobilizer system, along with potential cost implications, empowers you to make informed decisions about repair options and potentially save money. If you’re facing persistent key fob issues, consulting a trusted Subaru dealership or a qualified automotive locksmith is always recommended to ensure proper diagnosis and repair.
