Are you having trouble programming a new key fob for your Subaru Forester? You’re not alone. Many Subaru owners, especially those with models around the 2012 year, face similar challenges. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to programming your Subaru Forester key fob, ensuring you regain full access and control over your vehicle’s security system.
Understanding Subaru Forester Key Fob Programming
Programming a key fob for your Subaru Forester can seem daunting, but it’s often a DIY task that can save you a trip and expense to the dealership. The process generally involves putting your car into programming mode and then entering a specific code associated with your key fob. However, variations in model years and fob types can lead to confusion.
This guide is specifically tailored to address the common issues encountered when programming key fobs for Subaru Foresters, particularly those around the 2012 model year. We’ll walk you through the standard programming procedure and offer troubleshooting tips to overcome potential hurdles.
Step-by-Step Guide to Subaru Forester Key Fob Programming
Before you begin, ensure you have the following:
- Your Subaru Forester vehicle.
- Your new key fob (ensure it’s compatible with your Subaru model – FCC ID and IC numbers should match if replacing an OEM fob).
- All vehicle doors are properly closed.
- All doors are unlocked.
Here’s the standard procedure, often cited for Subaru Forester key fob programming:
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Get in the Driver’s Seat: Sit in the driver’s seat and ensure all doors are fully closed.
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Driver’s Door Cycling (Initial): Open and close the driver’s side door once. This step is crucial for initiating the programming sequence.
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Ignition Cycling (10 Times): Insert your key into the ignition. Turn the ignition from the “OFF” position to the “ON” position (without starting the engine) and back to “OFF” rapidly, ten times in succession. You should hear an interior chime after this step, and the dome lights might start flashing, indicating you’ve entered programming mode.
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Driver’s Door Cycling (Confirmation): Open and close the driver’s door again. You should hear an additional exterior chime, confirming you are in programming mode and ready to input the key fob code.
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Enter the Key Fob Code: This is where things can get tricky, and the method might vary slightly depending on your exact model year and fob. The procedure often involves using the “UNLOCK” button to input an 8-digit code found inside your key fob. The process is often described as a Morse code style input:
- Locate the 8-digit code inside your key fob (you may need to open the fob to find this).
- For each digit of the code:
- Press and release the “UNLOCK” button that number of times. For example, for the digit ‘3’, press the “UNLOCK” button three times and release.
- After inputting each digit, there might be a beep from the car’s exterior speaker, acknowledging the input.
- After entering all 8 digits and pressing the “UNLOCK” button after the final digit, the car locks should cycle (lock then unlock) to indicate successful code entry.
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Repeat for Additional Fobs (If Needed): If you are programming multiple key fobs, repeat step 5 for each additional fob immediately after the locks cycle.
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Exit Programming Mode: Turn the ignition key to the “ON” position and then back to “OFF” to exit programming mode.
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Test Your Key Fobs: Test all programmed key fobs to ensure they are working correctly by locking and unlocking the doors, and activating other functions like the panic button or liftgate release.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If you encounter problems during the programming process, consider these troubleshooting steps:
- Door Lock Jam: As highlighted in the original user’s experience, a jammed physical door lock can be a significant issue, although it shouldn’t directly prevent key fob programming. However, ensure all door sensors are functioning correctly, as the system relies on door open/close signals.
- Programming Mode Entry: If you don’t hear the chime or see the dome lights flashing after the ignition cycling, you may not have entered programming mode correctly. Ensure you are performing the ignition cycling rapidly and precisely. Try again, focusing on a quick and consistent rhythm.
- Code Entry Problems: The Morse code style input can be sensitive. Ensure you are pressing the “UNLOCK” button the correct number of times for each digit and listening for any acknowledgment beeps. If the locks don’t cycle after entering the code, the code entry might have failed. Double-check the 8-digit code and try again.
- Used Key Fobs: Used key fobs from eBay or other sources might sometimes be problematic. While they can often be reprogrammed, there’s a chance they might have internal issues or be incompatible despite appearing to match. If possible, try programming with a brand new, OEM-compatible key fob to eliminate this variable.
- Battery Issues: While you’ve tested the batteries, ensure they are fresh and have sufficient voltage. Low battery voltage in the fob can sometimes cause programming failures.
- System Compatibility: Verify that the replacement key fob is indeed compatible with your 2012 Subaru Forester. Check the FCC ID and IC numbers on your original fob and ensure they match the replacement. Consulting a Subaru parts catalog or dealership can confirm compatibility.
- Incorrect Procedure: While the steps outlined are generally applicable, slight variations might exist for the 2012 Subaru Forester or specific trim levels. Consult your owner’s manual for keyless entry programming instructions specific to your vehicle. Online Subaru owner forums can also be valuable resources for model-specific advice.
Seeking Professional Help
If you’ve diligently followed these steps and troubleshooting tips and are still unable to program your Subaru Forester key fob, it might be time to seek professional assistance. A Subaru dealership or a qualified automotive locksmith will have specialized tools and diagnostic equipment to program key fobs, diagnose any underlying issues with your vehicle’s keyless entry system, and ensure you have a working key fob. While DIY programming is often possible, professionals can efficiently resolve complex situations and provide peace of mind.
Conclusion
Programming a key fob for your 2012 Subaru Forester should be a manageable task with the right approach. By following this comprehensive guide, understanding the process, and troubleshooting potential issues, you can increase your chances of successful DIY key fob programming. However, don’t hesitate to seek professional help if needed to ensure your vehicle’s security system is properly functioning and you have reliable key fob access.
