So, you’re looking to replace your 2010 Subaru Forester key fob? Navigating the world of car key fobs can be tricky, and dealership prices can be a shock. Many Subaru owners consider the DIY route for key fob replacement and programming to save money. Based on my experience, here’s what you need to know to get it done right for your 2010 Forester.
First off, let’s talk about finding the correct key fob. It’s not as simple as just grabbing any fob that looks similar. There are a few critical details to pay attention to, primarily the FCC ID and IC ID numbers. These identifiers must match the ones on your original key fob. However, matching these numbers alone isn’t always enough.
Here’s a crucial point I learned: even with matching FCC and IC IDs, there can be variations. For the 2010 Subaru Forester, there are reportedly two versions of the key fob, differentiated by their manufacturing origin – Mexico or Japan. The version you require is linked to where your Subaru was originally assembled. The easiest way to determine which one you need is to examine the back of your existing key fob. It should indicate its country of origin – either “Made in Mexico” or “Made in Japan.”
Once you know the origin, you can start your search for a replacement. Online marketplaces like eBay and Amazon are common sources. However, be cautious when buying online. In my own experience, I purchased two fobs online that didn’t work out. The first was from the wrong country of origin – a mistake on my part for not checking carefully enough. The second fob had the correct origin but ultimately didn’t work with my car due to a different button configuration. Although it looked similar and I assumed it would be compatible, the button layout difference rendered it useless for my Forester.
To minimize the risk and increase your chances of getting the right fob the first time, I highly recommend finding the OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) part number for your specific 2010 Subaru Forester key fob. A good starting point is an official Subaru parts website. You can usually find parts diagrams and identify the correct part number based on your vehicle’s model and year. Once you have the OEM part number, you can search for it on eBay, Amazon, or other online retailers. When searching using the part number, still double-check that the FCC ID and IC ID match your original fob to be absolutely sure. Using the OEM part number is your best bet before resorting to the potentially expensive dealership option.
Finally, programming the key fob to your 2010 Subaru Forester is generally straightforward. The programming procedure is detailed in your Subaru Forester owner’s manual. My advice is to read through the programming instructions in your manual a couple of times before you start the process. Familiarizing yourself with the steps beforehand will make the actual programming much smoother.
Replacing your 2010 Subaru Key Fob yourself is achievable with careful attention to detail. By focusing on the FCC ID, IC ID, country of origin, and ideally the OEM part number, you can increase your chances of a successful and cost-effective replacement. Good luck!
