Is your Subaru key fob starting to feel a little… unresponsive? Maybe you have to press the buttons harder, or get closer to your car for it to unlock. It’s a common issue, and often the culprit is a simple dead battery in your key fob. The good news? Replacing the battery in your Subaru key fob is a straightforward task you can easily do yourself, saving you time and a trip to the dealership.
This guide will walk you through the process of replacing your Subaru key fob battery step-by-step. We’ll cover everything from identifying the signs of a low battery to the exact tools you’ll need and how to perform the replacement quickly and efficiently. Whether you drive an Impreza, Outback, Forester, or any other Subaru model, this guide will help you get your key fob working like new again.
Recognizing the Signs of a Dying Key Fob Battery
Before you jump into replacing the battery, it’s helpful to confirm that’s actually the problem. Here are some common signs that your Subaru key fob battery is getting weak and might need replacing:
- Reduced Range: You need to be much closer to your Subaru than usual for the key fob to lock or unlock the doors. The effective range of the remote decreases noticeably.
- Intermittent Responsiveness: Sometimes the buttons work, sometimes they don’t. You might have to press buttons multiple times to get a reaction from your vehicle.
- Weak or No LED Indicator Light: Many Subaru key fobs have a small LED light that illuminates when you press a button. If this light is dim or doesn’t light up at all, it could indicate a low battery.
- Dashboard Warning Light: Some newer Subaru models may display a warning message on the dashboard indicating a low key fob battery.
- Inconvenience and Frustration: Ultimately, if your key fob is becoming unreliable and causing you frustration, replacing the battery is a cheap and easy first step to resolve the issue.
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s highly likely that a battery replacement will solve the problem.
Gathering Your Tools and Supplies
Replacing your Subaru key fob battery is a simple DIY task that requires minimal tools. Here’s what you’ll need:
- A New CR2032 Battery: This is the standard coin cell battery used in most Subaru key fobs. You can find these batteries at most drugstores, supermarkets, hardware stores, and online retailers. For reliable performance, consider reputable brands like Energizer or Duracell. While Panasonic batteries are also a good option, ensure you are purchasing genuine ones, especially when ordering online.
- A Small Flathead Screwdriver or Pry Tool: You’ll need a small tool to gently open the key fob case. A small flathead screwdriver from a precision screwdriver set works perfectly. Alternatively, a plastic pry tool (often used for electronics repair) can also be used to minimize the risk of scratching the fob casing.
- A Soft Cloth (Optional): Using a soft cloth can help protect the key fob from scratches during the battery replacement process.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your Subaru Key Fob Battery
Now that you have your tools and supplies ready, let’s get down to replacing the battery. The process is generally similar across different Subaru models, but there might be slight variations. Always refer to your owner’s manual for the most accurate instructions specific to your vehicle.
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Locate the Emergency Key and Release: Most Subaru key fobs have a physical emergency key hidden inside. Locate the release button or latch on your key fob. This is usually a small button or slider. Press and hold the release while pulling out the emergency key. Set the emergency key aside.
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Open the Key Fob Casing: With the emergency key removed, you’ll typically see a small slot or seam where you can open the key fob case. This is where you’ll use your flathead screwdriver or pry tool.
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Gently Pry Open the Case: Insert the tip of your flathead screwdriver or pry tool into the slot or seam. Gently twist or pry to separate the two halves of the key fob casing. Be careful not to use excessive force, as you could damage the plastic casing. Work your way around the seam if necessary until the case splits open.
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Identify the Battery and its Orientation: Once the case is open, you’ll see the CR2032 battery. Take a moment to note the orientation of the battery – specifically which side is facing up (+ or -). This is important for inserting the new battery correctly.
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Remove the Old Battery: The battery is usually held in place by small clips. You can typically use your fingertip or the edge of your screwdriver to gently pry the old battery out of its holder.
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Insert the New Battery: Take your new CR2032 battery and insert it into the battery compartment, ensuring that the orientation matches the old battery (positive side up or down, as noted in step 4). Press down gently until the battery is securely in place and held by the clips.
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Reassemble the Key Fob Casing: Carefully align the two halves of the key fob casing and press them back together until they snap securely into place. Ensure there are no gaps and the case is fully closed.
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Reinsert the Emergency Key: Slide the emergency key back into its slot until it clicks into place.
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Test Your Key Fob: Press the buttons on your key fob to test if it’s working correctly. Lock and unlock your doors, and if your vehicle has remote start, test that feature as well. If everything works as expected, you’ve successfully replaced your Subaru key fob battery!
Tips to Extend Your Subaru Key Fob Battery Life
While replacing your key fob battery is easy, you can also take steps to prolong its life and avoid frequent replacements:
- Use Touch or Proximity Locking/Unlocking: If your Subaru has touch-sensitive door handles or proximity unlocking features, utilize them. This reduces the need to press buttons on your key fob repeatedly.
- Avoid Excessive Button Pressing: Resist the urge to repeatedly press the lock/unlock buttons, especially when you are already within range of your vehicle. Each button press drains battery power.
- Store Your Key Fob Away from Your Vehicle: Keeping your key fob too close to your Subaru when you are at home can, in some cases, cause both the car battery and the key fob battery to drain faster. Store your fob further away from your vehicle, allowing the car to fully “sleep”. Alternatively, consider using a Faraday cage or valet box to store your fob at home, which blocks signals and prevents unnecessary battery drain.
- Consider Battery Quality: While all CR2032 batteries are the same size, battery quality can vary. Opting for reputable brands like Energizer or Duracell can sometimes lead to longer battery life compared to generic brands.
Conclusion
Replacing the battery in your Subaru key fob is a simple and cost-effective maintenance task that any Subaru owner can perform. By following this guide, you can quickly restore your key fob to optimal working condition and avoid the inconvenience of a dead battery. Regularly checking for signs of a weak battery and following the tips to extend battery life can also help prevent unexpected issues.
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