Losing your car keys is always a stressful experience, and it can become even more complicated when dealing with modern key fobs. If you’ve lost your Subaru key fob, especially your last one, you might be wondering about the best course of action to get a replacement and get back on the road. This guide will walk you through the steps you need to take to obtain a new key fob for your Subaru, ensuring a smooth and efficient process.
Modern Subaru vehicles come equipped with sophisticated security systems, often making key fob replacement a bit more involved than for older cars. Unlike traditional keys, key fobs need to be programmed to communicate with your car’s immobilizer and security system. This is a crucial anti-theft measure, but it can present challenges when you need a replacement.
Understanding Your Options for Subaru Key Fob Replacement
When you find yourself in need of a new key fob for your Subaru, you generally have a couple of primary options:
1. Subaru Dealership
The most straightforward and often recommended option is to go directly to your local Subaru dealership. Dealerships have certified technicians and the specialized equipment necessary to program new key fobs specifically for your Subaru model and year.
Here’s what you can expect when going to a dealership:
- Expertise: Dealership technicians are trained specifically on Subaru vehicles and their systems.
- Genuine Parts: They will use genuine Subaru key fobs, ensuring compatibility and quality.
- Programming: Dealerships have the diagnostic tools required to program the new key fob to match your car’s unique security system.
- Verification: Be prepared to prove vehicle ownership. You will likely need to provide your vehicle registration and driver’s license.
Potential drawbacks of using a dealership:
- Cost: Dealerships can sometimes be more expensive than other options.
- Time: Depending on their schedule and parts availability, it might take a bit longer to get your new key fob.
2. Automotive Locksmiths
In some cases, a qualified automotive locksmith may be able to program a new key fob for your Subaru. However, this option can be more variable depending on the locksmith’s equipment and expertise.
Considerations when choosing a locksmith:
- Specialization: Ensure the locksmith specializes in modern car key programming and has experience with Subaru vehicles specifically. Not all locksmiths have the necessary tools for every make and model, especially for newer, more technologically advanced systems.
- Equipment: Ask if they have the equipment to program key fobs for your specific Subaru year and model.
- Cost and Time: Locksmiths might offer a more competitive price and quicker service than dealerships, but this is not always the case.
- Key Fob Quality: Inquire about the type of key fob they use. Ensure it is a high-quality, compatible fob.
Important Note: For some newer Subaru models, particularly those with advanced security features, dealership programming might be the only reliable option. As the original poster in the source article experienced, even dealerships can encounter unexpected complexities with Subaru’s systems.
Steps to Take When Getting a New Subaru Key Fob
Regardless of whether you choose a dealership or a locksmith, here are the general steps involved in getting a new Subaru key fob:
-
Gather Vehicle Information: Have your Subaru’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) ready. This is essential for both dealerships and locksmiths to ensure they provide the correct key fob and programming. You can find your VIN on your vehicle registration, insurance card, or on the dashboard on the driver’s side (visible from outside the windshield).
-
Proof of Ownership: You must prove that you own the Subaru. Bring your vehicle registration and a valid driver’s license or photo ID that matches the registration information. This is a security measure to prevent car theft.
-
Contact Your Chosen Service Provider:
- Dealership: Call your local Subaru dealership’s service department and explain your situation. Schedule an appointment for key fob replacement and programming. Ask for a quote beforehand to understand the potential cost.
- Locksmith: Research reputable automotive locksmiths in your area. Call and inquire if they can program Subaru key fobs, specifically for your model year. Ask about their pricing and the type of key fobs they use.
-
Key Fob Programming:
- At the Dealership: The dealership technician will use Subaru diagnostic tools to program the new key fob to your car. This process usually involves connecting to your car’s computer system and syncing the new fob.
- At the Locksmith: If using a locksmith, ensure they perform the programming correctly. A successful programming is crucial for the key fob to work properly with your Subaru’s security system.
-
Testing and Verification: After programming, test the new key fob to ensure it properly locks and unlocks the doors, starts the ignition, and activates any other remote functions (like the panic button or trunk release).
Cost Considerations for a New Subaru Key Fob
The cost of a new Subaru key fob can vary depending on several factors:
- Dealership vs. Locksmith: Dealerships tend to be pricier due to genuine parts and specialized service. Locksmiths can be cheaper, but pricing varies greatly.
- Key Fob Type: The complexity of your key fob (e.g., basic remote, proximity key, keyless entry and start) affects the price. More advanced fobs are generally more expensive.
- Programming Fees: Programming is a significant part of the cost. Dealerships and locksmiths will charge for their programming services.
- Vehicle Model and Year: Key fob prices and programming complexity can differ between Subaru models and model years.
- Emergency vs. Non-Emergency: If you need immediate, same-day service, emergency locksmith services might have higher fees.
Budgeting: Expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $500 or more for a new Subaru key fob, including programming. As the original poster mentioned, unexpected complications can significantly increase costs, unfortunately. It’s always wise to get a quote beforehand and clarify all potential charges.
Preventing Future Key Fob Loss
Once you have your new key fob, consider these tips to prevent future headaches:
- Spare Key: Immediately get a spare key fob made. Having a backup will save you considerable time, money, and stress if you lose your primary fob again.
- Designated Place: Always keep your key fob in a designated place at home (e.g., a key hook or bowl) and when you are out (e.g., a specific pocket or purse compartment).
- Key Finder: Consider using a Bluetooth key finder tag attached to your key fob. These devices can help you locate your keys if they are misplaced nearby, and some can even alert you if you leave your keys behind.
- Insurance: Check if your car insurance or homeowner’s insurance covers key replacement or loss. Some policies offer this as an add-on or included benefit.
Conclusion
Losing your Subaru key fob is undoubtedly inconvenient, but by understanding your options and taking the right steps, you can get a replacement efficiently. While dealerships are often the most reliable choice, especially for newer models, exploring reputable automotive locksmiths might offer alternative solutions. Always prioritize verifying ownership, getting a clear price quote, and testing your new key fob thoroughly. And most importantly, learn from the experience and take preventative measures to avoid losing your key fob again!
Note: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional automotive advice. Always consult with a certified Subaru dealership or a qualified automotive locksmith for your specific situation.
