Is your 2013 Subaru key fob not working as reliably as it used to? You might be facing a common issue: a dead or dying key fob battery. Don’t worry, gaining access to your Subaru doesn’t have to be a stressful ordeal. Replacing the battery in your 2013 Subaru key fob is usually a quick and straightforward process you can handle yourself. While scheduling a service appointment is always an option, this guide will walk you through replacing your Subaru key fob battery, saving you time and potentially money.
Identifying Your 2013 Subaru Key Fob and Battery Type
Subaru has used a few different key fob designs over the years. For a 2013 Subaru, you’ll likely encounter one of three main types. Knowing which type you have is the first step, as it dictates the battery you’ll need and the minor variations in the replacement process. If you’re unsure, your owner’s manual is the best resource to confirm your specific key fob type.
Here’s a breakdown of the common 2013 Subaru key fob styles and the batteries they require:
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Bulging Rectangle Shape: This is a more modern design. It’s characterized by its rectangular shape with a noticeable bulge. This type of 2013 Subaru key fob typically requires a CR2032 battery.
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Teardrop Shape: An older, more rounded design, often referred to as teardrop-shaped. This fob for a 2013 Subaru usually takes a CR2025 battery.
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Exposed Metal Key with Buttons: This fob is the most traditional, featuring the metal key blade visibly extending from the fob body with buttons on the side. This style for a 2013 Subaru uses a CR1620 battery.
Once you’ve identified your 2013 Subaru key fob and confirmed the correct battery type, you’re ready to proceed with the battery replacement.
Step-by-Step Guide: Replacing Your 2013 Subaru Key Fob Battery
The following instructions are tailored for each type of 2013 Subaru key fob. Remember to work in a clean, well-lit area.
Replacing the Battery in a Bulging Rectangle 2013 Subaru Key Fob (CR2032 Battery)
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Remove the Emergency Key: Locate the small silver tab on the back of your rectangular fob. Press and hold this tab to release and remove the metal emergency key.
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Pry Open the Fob: Carefully separate the two halves of the fob casing. You can use a flathead screwdriver inserted into the seam to gently pry it open. Be patient and avoid applying excessive force to prevent damage.
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Locate the Battery: Once open, you’ll see the round, flat CR2032 battery. It might be on top of or underneath the transmitter circuit board, depending on how the fob opened.
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Replace the Battery: Gently release the old battery and remove it. Install the new CR2032 battery, ensuring the positive (+) side is facing upwards. Try to minimize touching the flat surfaces of the new battery with your fingers to avoid transferring oils.
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Reassemble the Fob: Snap the two halves of the fob casing back together until they are securely closed. Re-insert the metal emergency key until it clicks into place.
Replacing the Battery in a Teardrop Shape 2013 Subaru Key Fob (CR2025 Battery)
The process for the teardrop-shaped 2013 Subaru key fob is very similar to the rectangular fob, but it lacks the emergency key release.
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Pry Open the Fob: Carefully pry open the teardrop fob using a flathead screwdriver or similar tool, working along the seam between the two halves of the casing.
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Locate and Replace Battery: Identify the CR2025 battery inside. Remove the old battery and replace it with a new CR2025, ensuring correct polarity (positive side up).
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Reassemble the Fob: Snap the two halves of the teardrop fob back together until they are firmly closed.
Replacing the Battery in an Exposed Metal Key 2013 Subaru Key Fob (CR1620 Battery)
This older style 2013 Subaru key fob has an extra internal casing.
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Open the Outer Casing: Pry open the main fob casing, similar to the teardrop fob, to access the internal components.
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Open the Inner Casing: Inside the outer casing, you’ll find a smaller, secondary casing. Look for small tabs on this inner casing. Press these tabs to release and open the inner casing.
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Locate and Replace Battery: The CR1620 battery will be inside the inner casing. Remove the old battery and replace it with a new CR1620 battery, again ensuring the positive side is facing upwards.
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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 a New Battery Doesn’t Solve the Problem?
If you’ve replaced your 2013 Subaru Key Fob Battery and are still experiencing issues, the problem might be more complex. In some cases, the key fob itself may need to be replaced, or it might require reprogramming.
For security reasons, obtaining a new Subaru key fob typically requires ordering it through an authorized Subaru dealership. Subaru North Orlando is available to assist you with key fob replacement and programming.
While some older Subaru models allow for DIY key fob programming, newer models, especially those with the bulging rectangular fob, often require dealership programming due to security protocols.
If you suspect your 2013 Subaru key fob needs reprogramming or replacement, it’s best to contact a Subaru dealership for professional service.
Get Expert Subaru Service at Subaru North Orlando
Replacing your 2013 Subaru key fob battery is often a simple fix. However, if you encounter any difficulties or need further assistance with your key fob or any other Subaru service needs, don’t hesitate to contact us at Subaru North Orlando. Our expert technicians are here to help! You can easily schedule your service appointment online or call us today. We also offer service specials to help you save on your Subaru maintenance. We are conveniently located in Sanford and serve the greater Orlando area.
