Experiencing issues with your 2008 Subaru key fob can be frustrating. If your key fob isn’t unlocking your doors or starting your vehicle reliably, the most common culprit is a dead battery. The good news is that replacing the battery in your 2008 Subaru key fob is a straightforward task you can easily handle yourself. This guide will walk you through the simple steps to replace your 2008 Subaru Key Fob Battery and get you back on the road quickly.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your 2008 Subaru Key Fob Battery
Depending on the specific model and trim of your 2008 Subaru, your key fob might have a slightly different design. However, the battery replacement process is generally similar across most 2008 Subaru key fobs. Let’s explore the most common types and how to change their batteries.
Replacing the Battery in a Bulging Rectangle 2008 Subaru Key Fob
This type of key fob, characterized by its bulging rectangular shape, is common for many Subaru models around 2008. You’ll need a CR2032 battery for this replacement.
What you’ll need:
- A new CR2032 battery
- A small flathead screwdriver (optional, for prying)
Steps:
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Remove the Emergency Key: Locate the small silver tab on the back of your 2008 Subaru key fob. Press and hold this tab to release and remove the metal emergency key.
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Open the Key Fob Casing: Once the emergency key is removed, you’ll see a seam where the two halves of the key fob casing meet. Carefully pry open the fob at this seam. You can use your fingernail or gently insert a small flathead screwdriver into the seam to help separate the two halves. Be careful not to apply excessive force to avoid damaging the casing.
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Locate the Battery: After opening the fob, you’ll see the internal components. The round, flat CR2032 battery will be visible, either on top of or beneath the transmitter circuit board depending on how the fob opened.
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Remove and Replace the Old Battery: Gently release the old CR2032 battery from its housing. Take note of the battery orientation – usually, the positive (+) side faces upwards. Insert the new CR2032 battery, ensuring the correct polarity. Try to minimize touching the flat surfaces of the new battery with your fingers to avoid transferring oils.
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Reassemble the Key Fob: Carefully snap the two halves of the key fob casing back together. Ensure they are firmly closed and all seams are aligned. Finally, slide the metal emergency key back into its slot until it clicks into place.
Replacing the Battery in a Teardrop Shape 2008 Subaru Key Fob
Some older 2008 Subaru models might utilize a teardrop-shaped key fob. This type requires a 2025 battery for replacement. The process is very similar to the rectangular fob, just remember the different battery type.
What you’ll need:
- A new 2025 battery
- A small flathead screwdriver (optional, for prying)
Steps:
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Open the Key Fob Casing: Unlike the rectangular fob, the teardrop shape typically doesn’t have a separate emergency key to remove. Locate the seam on the fob casing and carefully pry it open using your fingernail or a small flathead screwdriver.
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Locate and Replace Battery: Once open, identify the 2025 battery. Remove the old battery and replace it with a new 2025 battery, ensuring correct polarity (positive side up).
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Reassemble the Key Fob: Snap the two halves of the teardrop key fob casing back together until they are securely closed.
Replacing the Battery in an Exposed Metal Key 2008 Subaru Key Fob
For some of the earliest 2008 Subaru models with electronic key fobs, you might encounter a design where the metal key is always exposed alongside the buttons. This type of fob uses a CR 1620 battery and involves an extra step.
What you’ll need:
- A new CR 1620 battery
- A small flathead screwdriver (optional, for prying)
Steps:
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Open the Outer Casing: First, you need to open the main, outer casing of the key fob. This process is similar to the bulging rectangular fob – look for a seam and gently pry it open.
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Open the Inner Casing: Inside the outer casing, you’ll find a second, smaller inner casing. This inner casing houses the battery. Look for small tabs on this inner casing. Press these tabs to release and open the inner casing.
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Replace the Battery: Now you can access the CR 1620 battery. Remove the old battery and replace it with a new CR 1620 battery, ensuring the correct side is facing upwards.
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Reassemble Both Casings: Close the inner casing first, making sure it snaps shut. Then, place the inner casing back into the outer casing and snap the outer casing closed.
What If Replacing the 2008 Subaru Key Fob Battery Doesn’t Solve the Problem?
If you’ve replaced your 2008 Subaru key fob battery and are still experiencing issues, it’s possible that the problem lies elsewhere. In some cases, the key fob itself might be faulty or require reprogramming.
While some older Subaru key fobs can be programmed at home, newer models, especially those with the bulging rectangular fob, often require professional programming. For 2008 Subaru models, it’s best to consult your owner’s manual or contact a qualified automotive service professional or your local Subaru dealer for assistance with key fob programming or replacement. They have the specialized equipment to diagnose and fix more complex key fob issues.
Replacing the battery in your 2008 Subaru key fob is usually a quick and inexpensive fix for common key fob problems. By following these steps, you can often restore your key fob’s functionality and avoid a trip to the dealership.
