Is your 2019 Subaru Forester key fob not working as reliably as it used to? Are you finding yourself pressing the buttons multiple times to lock or unlock your doors? The most likely culprit is a dead or dying key fob battery. Don’t worry, replacing the battery in your 2019 Forester key fob is a straightforward process you can easily do yourself at home. This guide will walk you through each step, ensuring you can get your key fob back in perfect working order quickly and efficiently.
While issues with your car can be frustrating, replacing your 2019 Subaru Forester key fob battery is one of the simplest maintenance tasks you can undertake. You don’t need to be a car expert to do this! Whether you’re in your driveway or on the go, knowing how to change your key fob battery can save you time and the hassle of a dealership visit for something so minor.
Let’s get started and show you how to replace your 2019 Forester Key Fob Battery in just a few minutes.
Step-by-Step Guide to 2019 Forester Key Fob Battery Replacement
The key fob for the 2019 Subaru Forester is the “bulging rectangle shape” style. This type of fob is user-friendly and designed for easy battery replacement. You’ll only need a few common household items and a new battery.
What You’ll Need:
- A new CR2032 battery. This is the specific battery type required for the 2019 Subaru Forester key fob. You can find these at most drugstores, supermarkets, and auto parts stores.
- A small flathead screwdriver or a thin pry tool. A butter knife can also work in a pinch, but be careful not to scratch the fob.
Steps to Replace Your 2019 Forester Key Fob Battery:
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Remove the Emergency Key: Locate the small silver tab on the back of your 2019 Forester key fob. Press and hold this tab while simultaneously pulling out the metal emergency key. This key is a backup to manually unlock your car door if needed. Set the emergency key aside for now.
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Pry Open the Key Fob: With the emergency key removed, you’ll see a seam running along the edge of the key fob. This is where you’ll carefully pry it open. Insert your flathead screwdriver or pry tool into this seam. Gently twist or pry to separate the two halves of the fob. Take your time and avoid forcing it to prevent damage to the plastic casing.
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Locate the Battery: Once the fob is open, you’ll see the internal components. The round, flat CR2032 battery will be visible. It might be positioned on either side of the transmitter circuit board depending on how the fob opened.
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Remove the Old Battery: Carefully release the old CR2032 battery. In some cases, it might be held in place by small clips. Gently pry it out or slide it from under the clips. Pay attention to the orientation of the battery – note which side is facing up (+ side).
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Install the New Battery: Take your new CR2032 battery and install it in the same orientation as the old one. The positive (+) side of the battery should typically face upwards. Try to avoid touching the flat surfaces of the battery with your fingers as much as possible. Oils from your skin can sometimes reduce battery life.
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Reassemble the Key Fob: Carefully align the two halves of the key fob and press them back together until they snap securely. You should hear a click or feel them lock into place.
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Re-insert the Emergency Key: Finally, slide the metal emergency key back into its slot until it clicks and is securely held in place.
Testing Your 2019 Forester Key Fob:
Once you’ve reassembled your key fob, test it to ensure the battery replacement was successful. Press the lock and unlock buttons to see if your 2019 Subaru Forester responds. If everything works as expected, you’ve successfully replaced your 2019 Forester key fob battery!
What if Replacing the Battery Doesn’t Work?
In the vast majority of cases, replacing the battery will solve the issue of a non-responsive or weak 2019 Subaru Forester key fob. However, if you’ve replaced the battery and your key fob still isn’t working correctly, there might be another issue. Here are a few possibilities:
- Incorrect Battery Type: Double-check that you used a CR2032 battery. Using a different type, even if it fits, might not provide the correct voltage and could cause issues.
- Battery Installation Error: Make sure the battery is installed with the correct polarity (+ side up) and is making good contact within the fob.
- Key Fob Damage: If your key fob has been dropped, gotten wet, or experienced other damage, internal components might be faulty.
- Key Fob Programming: In rare cases, battery replacement might require the key fob to be reprogrammed to your vehicle. However, for the 2019 Subaru Forester, battery replacement typically does not require reprogramming.
When to Seek Professional Help:
If you’ve tried replacing the 2019 Forester key fob battery and are still experiencing problems, it’s best to consult with a professional. Your local Subaru dealership or a qualified automotive locksmith can diagnose the issue and provide solutions. They can test your key fob, check your vehicle’s receiver, and program a new key fob if necessary.
Maintaining Your 2019 Forester Key Fob Battery
To maximize the lifespan of your 2019 Subaru Forester key fob battery, consider these tips:
- Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Don’t leave your key fob in direct sunlight or extremely cold temperatures for extended periods, as this can shorten battery life.
- Spare Battery: Keep a spare CR2032 battery at home or in your glove compartment so you’re prepared when your key fob battery eventually needs replacing again.
- Gentle Handling: While key fobs are designed for daily use, avoid dropping or exposing them to excessive moisture or impact.
Replacing your 2019 Subaru Forester key fob battery is a simple DIY task that can save you time and money. By following these steps, you can ensure your key fob is working reliably and you can continue to enjoy the convenience of remote access to your vehicle. If you encounter any issues beyond battery replacement, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance for expert diagnosis and repair.
