Is your 2011 Subaru key fob refusing to cooperate? Don’t worry, you’re likely just dealing with a dead battery. Replacing the battery in your Subaru key fob is a straightforward task you can easily handle yourself, saving you time and a trip to the dealership. This guide will walk you through each step to get your key fob working again in no time.
Identifying Your 2011 Subaru Key Fob Type
Subaru has utilized a few different key fob designs over the years. For a 2011 Subaru, you’ll likely encounter one of these styles. Knowing your fob type is the first step, as it dictates the specific battery you’ll need and slightly alters the opening procedure. Referencing your owner’s manual is the most definitive way to identify your key fob if you’re unsure. However, we’ll cover the most common types to help you recognize yours:
- Bulging Rectangle Shape: This more modern design often features a metallic emergency key that slides out.
- Teardrop Shape: An older, rounded design, lacking the removable emergency key.
- Exposed Metal Key with Buttons: The oldest style, where the metal key is always visible, and the electronic components are housed around it.
Once you’ve identified your key fob, you can proceed with the battery replacement process, ensuring you use the correct battery type for your specific 2011 Subaru key fob.
Tools You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather these simple tools:
- New Battery: The correct type for your 2011 Subaru key fob (CR2032, CR2025, or CR1620 – we’ll specify this for each fob type below). You can find these at most drugstores, supermarkets, and auto parts stores.
- Small Flathead Screwdriver: For gently prying open the key fob casing. A small plastic trim tool can also work to prevent scratches.
Step-by-Step Battery Replacement for Each 2011 Subaru Key Fob Type
Let’s dive into the battery replacement process for each common 2011 Subaru key fob style.
Replacing the Battery in a Bulging Rectangle Subaru Key Fob (Likely Uses CR2032)
This type of 2011 Subaru key fob generally requires a CR2032 battery.
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Remove the Emergency Key: Locate the small silver tab or button on the back of your key fob. Press and hold it to release and slide out the metal emergency key.
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Pry Open the Fob: Carefully inspect the seam running around the edge of the key fob. Insert your flathead screwdriver or plastic trim tool into this seam. Gently twist or pry to separate the two halves of the fob casing. Take your time and avoid applying excessive force to prevent damage.
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Locate and Remove the Old Battery: Once open, you’ll see the circuit board and the round, flat battery. Note the orientation of the battery (+ side up or down) before removal. Gently pry the old battery loose from its holder.
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Install the New Battery: Place the new CR2032 battery into the battery compartment, ensuring the correct orientation (matching the orientation you noted for the old battery). Avoid touching the flat surfaces of the battery with your fingers as much as possible; use gloves or a cloth if needed to prevent oil transfer, which can reduce battery life.
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Reassemble the Fob: Carefully snap the two halves of the key fob casing back together. They should click securely into place. Re-insert the metal emergency key until it locks.
Replacing the Battery in a Teardrop Shape Subaru Key Fob (Likely Uses CR2025)
The teardrop-shaped 2011 Subaru key fob typically uses a CR2025 battery.
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Pry Open the Fob: This fob doesn’t have a removable emergency key, so you’ll directly proceed to opening the casing. Examine the seam around the fob’s edge. Use your flathead screwdriver or plastic tool to gently pry open the two halves of the fob, similar to the rectangular fob.
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Locate and Replace Battery: Open the fob and locate the battery. Remove the old CR2025 battery and replace it with a new one, ensuring correct polarity.
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Reassemble: Press the two halves of the fob firmly back together until they snap closed.
Replacing the Battery in an Exposed Metal Key Subaru Key Fob (Likely Uses CR1620)
This older style of 2011 Subaru key fob usually requires a CR1620 battery. It involves opening two casings.
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Open the Outer Casing: The process for opening the outer casing is similar to the bulging rectangle fob. Look for a seam and gently pry it open with your flathead screwdriver or plastic tool.
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Open the Inner Casing: Inside the outer casing, you’ll find a smaller, inner casing containing the circuit board and battery. This inner casing usually has small tabs holding it together. Carefully press these tabs to release and open the inner casing.
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Replace the Battery: Once the inner casing is open, you can access the CR1620 battery. Remove the old battery and install the new one, paying attention to the correct orientation.
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Reassemble Both Casings: Close the inner casing first, ensuring it clicks shut. Then, place the inner casing back into the outer casing and snap the outer casing closed.
What if Replacing the Battery Doesn’t Work?
In most cases, replacing the battery will solve the problem with your 2011 Subaru key fob. However, if you’ve installed a new battery and your fob still isn’t working, consider these possibilities:
- Battery Polarity: Double-check that you inserted the new battery with the correct side up (+ side usually faces up, but confirm the original battery’s orientation).
- Battery Type: Ensure you used the correct battery type (CR2032, CR2025, or CR1620) for your specific key fob.
- Key Fob Damage: Inspect the circuit board inside your key fob for any signs of damage, such as corrosion or broken components. If there’s visible damage, the fob may need to be replaced.
- Key Fob Programming: While battery replacement typically doesn’t require reprogramming, in rare cases or if there were other electrical issues, your key fob might need to be reprogrammed to your 2011 Subaru.
If you suspect a more complex issue, or if battery replacement didn’t resolve the problem, it’s best to consult with a Subaru dealership or a qualified automotive locksmith. They can diagnose the issue and provide further solutions, including key fob programming or replacement if necessary.
Battery Disposal and Important Notes
- Dispose of Old Batteries Properly: Used key fob batteries should be disposed of according to local regulations for electronic waste or batteries. Many stores that sell batteries also offer battery recycling drop-off.
- Battery Life: Key fob battery life typically ranges from 1 to 3 years, depending on usage and environmental factors.
- Cold Weather: Cold temperatures can sometimes temporarily reduce battery performance. If your key fob issues started in cold weather, a battery replacement is even more likely to be the solution.
Get Back on the Road with a Working Key Fob
Replacing the battery in your 2011 Subaru key fob is usually a quick and simple fix. By following these steps, you can restore your key fob’s functionality and regain convenient access to your vehicle. If you encounter any difficulties or prefer professional assistance, remember that Subaru dealerships and certified mechanics are always available to help. For further assistance or to schedule a service appointment, don’t hesitate to contact your local Subaru service center.
