Is your 2010 Subaru Outback key fob not working as reliably as it used to? Before you worry about expensive replacements or dealership visits, the solution might be as simple as swapping out the battery. Knowing the correct 2010 Subaru Outback Key Fob Battery Size and how to replace it yourself can save you time and money. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get your key fob working like new again.
Subaru key fobs, while durable, rely on small batteries to operate. Over time, these batteries will inevitably lose their charge, leading to decreased range or complete failure of your key fob. For the 2010 Subaru Outback, like many vehicles of that era, replacing the key fob battery is a straightforward process you can easily handle at home. Let’s dive into identifying your key fob type and the battery you’ll need.
Identifying Your 2010 Subaru Outback Key Fob and Battery Type
While Subaru has used various key fob designs over the years, for a 2010 Subaru Outback, you’re most likely dealing with one of two main types: the bulging rectangle shape or the teardrop shape. The good news is, both are relatively easy to open and service.
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Bulging Rectangle Shape Key Fob: This more modern-looking fob is characterized by its rectangular shape with a noticeable bulge and often features an emergency key that slides out. If this describes your 2010 Outback key fob, you’ll need a CR2032 battery.
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Teardrop Shape Key Fob: As the name suggests, this fob has a rounded, teardrop-like shape. It’s an older design and may not have a removable emergency key in the same way as the rectangular fob. For the teardrop fob of a 2010 Subaru Outback, the correct battery is a CR2025 battery.
If you’re unsure which key fob style you have, or to absolutely confirm the battery size, the best resource is always your 2010 Subaru Outback owner’s manual. However, for most 2010 Outback owners, it will be one of these two types using either a CR2032 or CR2025 battery.
Once you’ve identified your key fob type and confirmed the correct battery size – likely a CR2032 or CR2025 for a 2010 Subaru Outback – you’re ready to proceed with the battery replacement. These batteries are commonly available at most drugstores, supermarkets, and online retailers.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your 2010 Subaru Outback Key Fob Battery
Replacing the battery in your 2010 Subaru Outback key fob is a simple DIY task. Here’s how to do it for both common fob types:
For the Bulging Rectangle Shape Key Fob (CR2032 Battery):
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Remove the Emergency Key: Locate the small silver tab or button on the back of your key fob. Press and hold it to release and slide out the metal emergency key.
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Pry Open the Fob: With the emergency key removed, you’ll see a seam running around the edge of the key fob. Carefully insert a thin, flathead screwdriver or a similar prying tool into this seam. Gently twist to separate the two halves of the fob. Be patient and avoid applying excessive force to prevent damage.
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Locate and Remove the Old Battery: Once open, you’ll see the circuit board and the round, flat key fob battery. Note the orientation of the battery (which side is facing up). Gently pry the old battery loose. You might be able to use your fingertip or the edge of a small tool.
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Install the New CR2032 Battery: Take your new CR2032 battery and place it into the battery compartment, ensuring the correct side is facing up (usually the positive side, marked with a “+”, faces upwards). Avoid touching the flat surfaces of the battery as much as possible; handle it by the edges to prevent transferring oils from your fingers.
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Reassemble the Fob: Carefully snap the two halves of the key fob back together. They should click or snap securely. Re-insert the metal emergency key until it locks into place.
For the Teardrop Shape Key Fob (CR2025 Battery):
The process for the teardrop fob is very similar. The main difference is that this older style fob typically doesn’t have a separate emergency key to remove initially.
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Pry Open the Fob: Locate the seam on the teardrop-shaped fob. Use a flathead screwdriver or prying tool to carefully open the two halves of the fob, just like with the rectangular fob.
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Locate and Replace the Battery: Once open, follow steps 3-5 from the rectangular fob instructions, using a CR2025 battery instead of a CR2032. Ensure correct battery orientation and reassemble the fob.
For the Older Exposed Metal Key Fob (CR1620 Battery):
While less common for a 2010 model, some older Subaru Outbacks might use a fob with an exposed metal key and buttons on the side. This type requires a CR1620 battery.
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Open the Exterior Casing: This process is similar to the rectangular and teardrop fobs. Pry open the main casing using a flathead screwdriver.
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Open the Interior Casing: Inside the exterior casing, you’ll find a second, smaller casing. This interior casing usually has small tabs that you need to press to open it. Carefully inspect the casing and locate these tabs. Gently press them to separate the interior casing halves.
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Replace the CR1620 Battery: Once the interior casing is open, you can access and replace the CR1620 battery, following the same battery orientation guidelines as before.
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Reassemble Both Casings: Close the interior casing first, then place it back inside the exterior casing and snap everything securely back together.
What to Do If a New Battery Doesn’t Solve the Problem
In most cases, replacing the key fob battery will restore its functionality. However, if you’ve replaced the battery and your 2010 Subaru Outback key fob is still not working, there might be another issue.
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Key Fob Programming: Sometimes, after a battery replacement, or if there’s been an issue with your vehicle’s electrical system, the key fob might need to be reprogrammed to your car. While some older Subaru models allowed for DIY key fob programming, newer models, and potentially your 2010 Outback depending on the specific system, may require dealership programming. Check your owner’s manual for any DIY programming instructions, but for many 2010 Subaru Outback models, professional programming might be necessary.
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Key Fob Damage or Failure: Less commonly, the key fob itself could be damaged or malfunctioning. If you’ve ruled out the battery and programming, the key fob might need to be replaced. New key fobs typically need to be purchased and programmed through a Subaru dealership to ensure compatibility and security.
If you’re experiencing persistent key fob issues with your 2010 Subaru Outback after trying a battery replacement, it’s best to consult with a qualified mechanic or your local Subaru dealership. They can diagnose the issue and provide the necessary repairs or replacements.
However, for most 2010 Subaru Outback owners experiencing key fob problems, starting with a simple battery replacement using the correct 2010 Subaru Outback key fob battery size (CR2032 or CR2025) is a quick, easy, and often successful first step.
