Is your 2020 Subaru Impreza key fob not working as reliably as it used to? Before you panic, it’s highly likely that the issue is just a dead battery. Replacing the key fob battery in your Subaru Impreza is a straightforward task you can easily handle yourself, saving you time and money. This guide will walk you through each step of the process, ensuring you can get back to accessing your vehicle with ease. While scheduling a service appointment is always an option, learning to replace the battery yourself is a valuable skill for any Subaru owner.
Let’s dive into how to replace your 2020 Subaru Impreza Key Fob Battery quickly and efficiently.
Identifying Your Subaru Impreza Key Fob Type
Subaru uses a few different key fob designs, and while the battery replacement process is similar for each, knowing your fob type helps ensure you use the correct battery. For the 2020 Subaru Impreza, you’ll most likely have one of two main types of key fobs:
- Bulging Rectangle Shape: This is a common design for newer Subaru models, including the 2020 Impreza. It’s characterized by its rectangular shape with a slight bulge and usually requires a CR2032 battery.
- Teardrop Shape: While less common for the 2020 Impreza, some older models or specific trims might use a teardrop-shaped fob. This type typically uses a CR2025 battery.
If you’re unsure which key fob you have, the quickest way to confirm is to check your Subaru Impreza owner’s manual. It will provide specific details about your key fob and the battery it requires. Once you’ve identified your key fob type, you can proceed with the battery replacement steps outlined below.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replace a 2020 Subaru Impreza Key Fob Battery
The following instructions are tailored for the most common bulging rectangle key fob used with the 2020 Subaru Impreza. If you have the teardrop shape, the process is nearly identical, just remember to use a CR2025 battery instead.
Replacing the Battery in a Bulging Rectangle Subaru Key Fob (CR2032 Battery)
This type of key fob is likely what you have for your 2020 Subaru Impreza. Here’s how to change the battery:
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Remove the Emergency Key: Locate the small silver tab on the back of your key fob. Press and hold this tab to release and remove the metal emergency key. This key is a backup to manually unlock your car door if the key fob is completely dead.
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Pry Open the Key Fob: After removing the emergency key, you’ll see a seam running around the key fob. Carefully insert a flathead screwdriver or a similar thin, flat tool into this seam. Gently twist or pry to separate the two halves of the key fob. Be patient and avoid using excessive force to prevent damage to the casing.
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Locate the Battery: Once the fob is open, you’ll see the internal components. The round, flat key fob battery will be visible, possibly sitting above or below the transmitter circuit board depending on how the fob opened.
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Remove and Replace the Battery: Carefully release the old CR2032 battery. You might be able to gently pry it out with your fingertip or the edge of a small tool. Take note of which side of the battery is facing up (+ side). Insert the new CR2032 battery, ensuring the correct side (usually the side with the “+” symbol) is facing upwards, just like the old battery. Try to minimize touching the flat surfaces of the new battery with your fingers, as oils from your skin can reduce battery life.
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Reassemble the Key Fob: Carefully snap the two halves of the key fob back together. They should click or snap securely into place. Ensure there are no gaps between the two halves.
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Re-insert the Emergency Key: Slide the metal emergency key back into its slot until it clicks and locks into position.
Your 2020 Subaru Impreza key fob battery replacement is now complete! Test the key fob by locking and unlocking your car doors to ensure it’s working correctly.
Replacing the Battery in a Teardrop Shape Subaru Key Fob (CR2025 Battery)
If your 2020 Subaru Impreza happens to use the teardrop-shaped key fob, the process is very similar. The main difference is that this older design typically doesn’t have a removable emergency key.
- Pry Open the Key Fob: Locate the seam on the teardrop key fob and use a flathead screwdriver or similar tool to carefully pry it open, just as described in step 2 above for the rectangular fob.
- Locate and Replace the Battery: Identify the CR2025 battery inside. Remove the old battery and replace it with a new CR2025, ensuring the correct polarity (+ side up).
- Reassemble the Key Fob: Snap the two halves of the teardrop key fob back together securely.
What if Replacing the Battery Doesn’t Solve the Problem?
In most cases, replacing the key fob battery will resolve issues with your 2020 Subaru Impreza key fob. However, if you’ve replaced the battery and your key fob still isn’t working, there might be a different issue.
- Key Fob Programming: Occasionally, after a battery replacement, or if there was a power interruption, the key fob might need to be reprogrammed to your vehicle. While the original article mentions a programming procedure, it’s generally recommended for newer Subaru models, including the 2020 Impreza, to have key fob programming done at a dealership.
- Key Fob Damage: If your key fob has been dropped, damaged by moisture, or is simply old, internal components might be failing. In this case, you might need to replace the entire key fob.
- Vehicle Issues: In rare cases, problems with your car’s receiver or security system could be the cause of key fob malfunction.
If you’ve tried a new battery and your 2020 Subaru Impreza key fob is still not working, it’s best to contact a certified Subaru dealer, like Subaru North Orlando. They can diagnose the problem accurately and provide the necessary solutions, whether it’s reprogramming, key fob replacement, or addressing a vehicle-related issue. You can schedule a service appointment online for professional assistance.
Conclusion
Replacing the 2020 Subaru Impreza key fob battery is usually a quick and easy fix for common key fob problems. By following these simple steps, you can often restore your key fob’s functionality and avoid the inconvenience of a non-working remote. However, remember to consult your owner’s manual to confirm your specific key fob type and battery requirement. If you encounter any difficulties or if a new battery doesn’t solve the issue, don’t hesitate to seek professional help from your local Subaru dealership for expert service and support.
