Having trouble programming a new key fob for your 2014 Subaru Forester? You’re not alone! Many Subaru owners find themselves in the same situation, especially when trying to replace a lost or damaged key fob. Let’s break down the process and address some common points of confusion to get your key fob working smoothly.
First, let’s clarify the type of key you likely have. While you mentioned your keys appearing to be standard steel copies without a chip, the 2014 Subaru Forester typically comes with transponder keys. These keys have an embedded microchip that communicates with your car’s immobilizer system. This chip is essential for starting your vehicle and is separate from the keyless entry remote functions.
There are generally two main methods to program a key fob for your 2014 Subaru Forester:
1. Manual Programming (Door Cycle Method):
This method may work for adding keyless entry remote functions to your key fob, but it generally does not program the transponder chip needed to start the engine. It’s worth trying for remote functions, but understand its limitations. Here’s a common version of this procedure:
- Ensure all doors are closed and unlocked.
- Insert your key into the ignition and turn it to the “ON” position (without starting the engine).
- Cycle the key from “LOCK” to “ON” and back to “LOCK” rapidly ten times within 15 seconds. Listen for the car to cycle the door locks – this indicates you’ve entered programming mode.
- Once in programming mode, press any button on the new key fob. You should hear the door locks cycle again, confirming the fob is programmed for keyless entry.
- Turn the ignition off and remove the key. Test the buttons on your new key fob.
Important Considerations for Manual Programming:
- Tone or Lock Cycling: As you experienced, not hearing the “tone” or seeing the door locks cycle can be frustrating. Ensure you are performing the key cycling quickly enough and within the time limit.
- Steering Wheel Lock: It’s normal for some vehicles, including certain Subaru models, not to have a traditional steering wheel lock engage in the “LOCK” position. This doesn’t necessarily indicate a problem.
- Transponder Chip Programming: This manual method usually does not program the transponder chip required to start the engine. If your key fob is just a remote without the transponder programmed, it will only control door locks, not start the car.
2. Scan Tool Programming:
For full key fob programming, including the transponder chip to start the engine and potentially more advanced keyless entry features, a diagnostic scan tool is often required.
- Professional Scan Tool: A professional-grade scan tool, especially one with Subaru-specific capabilities, can access your car’s computer system and program both the transponder chip and the keyless entry functions. Basic scan tools generally lack this capability.
- Dealership or Locksmith: Subaru dealerships and qualified automotive locksmiths have the necessary scan tools and expertise to program your 2014 Forester key fobs correctly. This is often the most reliable method, especially for transponder programming.
Troubleshooting Tips:
- Battery Check: Ensure the batteries in your new key fobs are fresh and correctly installed.
- Compatibility: Verify that the replacement key fob is indeed compatible with a 2014 Subaru Forester. Part numbers should match or be cross-compatible.
- Alarm System: Accidentally triggering the alarm can sometimes interfere with programming. Try disarming the alarm system completely before attempting programming. If you are unsure how to disarm it without a working fob, consult your owner’s manual or a professional.
Conclusion:
While the manual door cycle method is worth attempting for keyless entry, programming the transponder chip for engine start and ensuring full key fob functionality for your 2014 Subaru Forester often requires a professional scan tool. If you’re struggling with the manual method, seeking assistance from a Subaru dealership or a qualified automotive locksmith equipped with the right tools is highly recommended to get your key fob programmed correctly and get back on the road.
