Is your 2020 Subaru Legacy key fob acting up? Perhaps it’s not unlocking your doors as reliably as it used to, or maybe it’s stopped working altogether. Before you panic, the most likely culprit is a dead battery. Replacing the battery in your 2020 Subaru Legacy key fob is a straightforward task you can easily do at home, saving you time and a trip to the dealership. This guide will walk you through each step, ensuring you can quickly get your key fob back in working order.
Knowing how to replace your Subaru key fob battery is a valuable skill. It prevents the frustration of being locked out of your vehicle and keeps you prepared for unexpected battery failures. Whether you drive a 2020 Subaru Legacy or another model, understanding the basics of key fob battery replacement is essential for modern car ownership. Let’s dive into the simple steps to replace your 2020 Subaru Legacy Key Fob Battery.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your 2020 Subaru Legacy Key Fob Battery
Subaru key fobs come in various designs depending on the year and model of your vehicle. For the 2020 Subaru Legacy, you’ll likely have a bulging rectangular shaped key fob. This type of fob is common for many newer Subaru models and requires a CR2032 battery. Here’s how to replace it:
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Locate and Remove the Emergency Key: On the back of your 2020 Subaru Legacy key fob, you’ll find a small silver tab. Press and hold this tab to release the metal emergency key. Slide the key out and set it aside.
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Pry Open the Key Fob: Carefully inspect the key fob casing. You’ll notice a seam running along the edge where the two halves of the fob meet. Insert a flathead screwdriver or a thin pry tool into this seam. Gently twist or pry to separate the two halves of the key fob. Take your time and avoid applying excessive force to prevent damage to the plastic casing.
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Identify the Battery: Once the fob is open, you’ll see the internal components, including the transmitter circuit board and the round, flat key fob battery. Note the battery’s position and how it’s held in place.
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Remove and Replace the Battery: Gently release the old battery. It might be held in by small clips or pressure. Pop out the old battery and take note of which side is facing up (+ side). Now, take your new CR2032 battery and insert it into the battery compartment, ensuring the correct side (usually marked with a “+” sign) is facing upwards, just like the old battery. Try to minimize touching the flat surfaces of the new battery with your fingers to avoid transferring oils.
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Reassemble the Key Fob: Carefully align the two halves of the key fob casing and press them back together until they snap securely into place. You should hear a click or feel them firmly rejoin.
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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.
Alt text: Opening a rectangular Subaru key fob to access the CR2032 battery for replacement.
That’s it! You’ve successfully replaced the battery in your 2020 Subaru Legacy key fob. Test the buttons to ensure it’s working correctly.
Alternative Subaru Key Fob Types and Batteries
While the rectangular fob with a CR2032 battery is common for the 2020 Subaru Legacy, older models or different Subaru vehicles might use different key fobs. Here are instructions for replacing batteries in other common Subaru key fob types:
Teardrop Shape Key Fob (CR2025 Battery)
For older Subaru models, you might encounter a teardrop-shaped key fob. The battery replacement process is very similar to the rectangular fob, but it uses a CR2025 battery instead of a CR2032. The main difference is that the teardrop fob typically doesn’t have a removable emergency key. You can skip step 1 from the previous instructions and proceed directly to prying open the fob to access and replace the CR2025 battery.
Alt text: Teardrop-shaped Subaru key fob opened to show the CR2025 battery location for battery replacement.
Exposed Metal Key with Buttons (CR1620 Battery)
Some older Subaru key fobs feature an exposed metal key that is always visible alongside the buttons. This type requires a slightly different approach because it has two casings. You’ll need to open both to reach the battery, which is a CR1620 battery.
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Open the Outer Casing: Use the same method as described for the rectangular fob (step 2 in the first set of instructions) to pry open the exterior casing of this key fob.
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Open the Inner Casing: Once the outer casing is open, you’ll see a second, smaller casing inside. This inner casing usually has small tabs or clips holding it together. Carefully press these tabs to release and open the inner casing.
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Replace the CR1620 Battery: Inside the inner casing, you’ll find the CR1620 battery. Remove the old battery and replace it with a new one, ensuring the correct polarity.
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Reassemble Both Casings: Close the inner casing first, making sure it snaps shut securely. Then, place the inner casing back into the outer casing and press both halves of the outer casing together until they are firmly closed.
Alt text: Disassembled Subaru key fob with exposed metal key, showing both outer and inner casings and the CR1620 battery.
What if a New Battery Doesn’t Solve the Problem?
In most cases, replacing the key fob battery will resolve issues with your 2020 Subaru Legacy key fob. However, if you’ve replaced the battery and your key fob is still not working, there might be another issue. Here are a few possibilities:
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Key Fob Programming: Sometimes, after a battery replacement or if there’s been an electrical issue, your key fob might need to be reprogrammed to your vehicle. While some older Subaru models allow for DIY key fob programming, newer models like the 2020 Subaru Legacy often require professional programming at a dealership.
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Key Fob Damage: If your key fob has been dropped, exposed to moisture, or otherwise damaged, internal components might be faulty.
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Vehicle Issues: In rare cases, problems with your vehicle’s receiver or electrical system could be the reason your key fob isn’t working.
If a new battery doesn’t fix the problem, it’s best to consult with a Subaru dealership or a qualified automotive locksmith. They can diagnose the issue and provide the necessary solutions, whether it’s reprogramming your key fob or addressing a more complex problem.
Need Further Assistance?
While replacing your 2020 Subaru Legacy key fob battery is usually a simple DIY task, Subaru experts are always ready to assist if you encounter any difficulties or prefer professional service. Contact your local Subaru dealership for battery replacement service, key fob programming, or any other car key related needs. They can ensure your key fob is working perfectly and address any underlying issues. Don’t let a dead key fob battery cause unnecessary stress – take action with this guide or seek professional help to get back on the road with a fully functional key fob.
