It’s a common frustration for Subaru owners: the dreaded dead key fob battery. While seemingly simple, the lifespan of your Subaru key fob battery can be influenced by several factors. Understanding these factors not only saves you from unexpected lockouts but also helps optimize battery longevity. This guide dives into the common reasons behind short key fob battery life in Subarus and provides actionable advice on replacement and preventative measures.
Factors Affecting Your Subaru Key Fob Battery Life
Several elements can contribute to how long your Subaru key fob battery lasts. Let’s explore the primary culprits:
Battery Quality and Manufacturing Variations
Not all CR2032 coin batteries are created equal. Quality control in manufacturing plays a significant role. Occasionally, even batteries from reputable brands can be faulty right out of the package. If you’re experiencing unusually short battery life, a subpar battery could be the issue. For peace of mind, especially when purchasing online, consider sticking to well-known brands like Energizer or Duracell for reliable quality and consistency. Genuine Panasonic batteries are also a good choice, though they may require more careful sourcing when ordering online. For those equipped, a battery tester can be a worthwhile tool to quickly assess a battery’s charge before installation, potentially saving you from future headaches.
Usage Habits: Are You Overusing Your Key Fob Buttons?
Do you find yourself repeatedly pressing the lock or unlock buttons as you approach or leave your Subaru? This habit, while common, can significantly drain your key fob battery faster. Each button press activates the fob’s transmitter, consuming power. A more battery-conscious approach is to utilize your Subaru’s touch-enabled locking and proximity unlocking features, if available. These systems are designed to minimize battery usage by automating locking and unlocking based on proximity. For those moments of doubt after walking away from your car, resist the urge to repeatedly press the lock button. Instead, consider using the MySubaru/Starlink app to verify your vehicle’s lock status remotely, if you have a subscription.
Proximity to Your Subaru: The Silent Battery Drainer
Anecdotal evidence across various car brands suggests that keeping your smart fob too close to your vehicle can lead to battery drain in both the vehicle and the key fob. When the fob is in close proximity, it can continuously communicate with the vehicle, even when parked, preventing both systems from fully entering a power-saving “sleep” mode. To mitigate this, ensure your key fob is stored far enough away from your Subaru when at home, ideally several meters. Alternatively, consider using a Faraday cage or a similar RF-blocking container to store your fob. This effectively blocks communication signals, preventing unnecessary battery drain when the fob is not in use and near the vehicle.
Replacing Your Subaru Key Fob Battery: A Quick Guide
While optimizing usage and storage can extend battery life, eventually, replacement becomes necessary. Replacing The Battery In A Subaru Key Fob is generally a straightforward process you can do at home. Consult your Subaru owner’s manual for specific instructions for your model, as slight variations may exist. Typically, the process involves:
- Locating the Emergency Key: Before you start, ensure you know how to access and use your physical emergency key to unlock your car manually. This is crucial if the battery dies completely during the replacement process.
- Opening the Key Fob Casing: Most Subaru key fobs have a small release button or latch. Refer to your manual for the exact method to safely open the fob casing without damage.
- Identifying the Battery Type: The standard battery is a CR2032 3V coin cell battery. Confirm the type before purchasing a replacement.
- Replacing the Battery: Carefully remove the old battery and insert the new one, ensuring the correct polarity (+ and – sides are oriented properly as indicated in the fob).
- Reassembling the Fob: Carefully snap the key fob casing back together, ensuring it is securely closed.
- Testing: Test the fob’s functions (lock, unlock, remote start if applicable) to confirm the new battery is working correctly.
By understanding the factors affecting your Subaru key fob battery life and knowing how to replace the battery, you can proactively manage this minor but sometimes inconvenient aspect of car ownership. Remember to check your emergency key functionality and consider optimizing your usage habits and fob storage to maximize battery longevity.
