Experiencing issues with your 2008 Subaru Legacy key fob? A common culprit is a dead battery. It can be frustrating when your key fob fails to unlock your doors or start your vehicle. Fortunately, replacing the battery in your 2008 Subaru Legacy key fob is a straightforward process you can easily handle yourself. This guide will walk you through each step, ensuring you can quickly regain full functionality of your key fob.
Identifying Your 2008 Subaru Legacy Key Fob Type
For the 2008 Subaru Legacy, you’ll likely encounter one of two key fob styles: the teardrop shape or the exposed metal key with buttons. While the bulging rectangle shape is more common in newer models, it’s less probable for a 2008 Legacy. To be certain, take a close look at your key fob and compare it to the descriptions below to determine which type you have. Knowing your key fob type is the first step to a smooth battery replacement.
Step-by-Step Battery Replacement Guides
Once you’ve identified your key fob, follow the specific instructions for your model below. The good news is that regardless of the type, replacing the 2008 Subaru Legacy Key Fob Battery is designed to be user-friendly.
Subaru Key Fob Battery Replacement – Teardrop Shape
Requires a 2025 Battery
This teardrop-shaped fob is a common style for the 2008 Subaru Legacy. Here’s how to replace the battery:
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Carefully inspect the fob casing. You’ll notice a seam running around the center of the teardrop shape.
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Using a thin, flat object like a small flathead screwdriver or even a sturdy guitar pick, gently pry open the fob along this seam. Insert the tool into the seam and carefully twist to separate the two halves of the fob. Be patient and avoid applying excessive force to prevent damage to the plastic casing.
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With the fob open, you’ll see the internal components and the round, flat key fob battery. The battery is typically held in place by small clips or pressure.
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Gently remove the old 2025 battery. You might need to use your fingertip or the tip of a pen to nudge it out of its housing. Take note of the battery’s orientation – specifically which side is facing up – as you’ll need to insert the new battery in the same way.
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Install the new 2025 battery, ensuring the correct side is facing upwards, matching the orientation of the old battery you removed. Avoid touching the flat surfaces of the new battery with your bare fingers as much as possible. Oils from your skin can reduce battery life.
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Carefully snap the two halves of the key fob back together. Press firmly along the seam until you hear or feel them click securely into place. Ensure there are no gaps between the halves.
Subaru Key Fob Battery Replacement – Exposed Metal Key With Buttons
Requires a CR 1620 Battery
Another style you might find for your 2008 Subaru Legacy is the key fob with an exposed metal key. This type requires a slightly different approach due to its two-casing design:
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Begin by opening the exterior casing of the fob. This process is similar to the teardrop fob. Look for a seam around the edge of the fob casing.
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Use a small flathead screwdriver or similar tool to gently pry open the exterior casing along the seam. Work your way around the fob, carefully separating the two halves.
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Once the exterior casing is open, you’ll discover a second, smaller interior casing. This inner casing houses the battery.
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Locate the small tabs or clips on the interior casing. These tabs hold the inner casing together.
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Gently press on these tabs, often located on the sides or ends of the inner casing, to release the locking mechanism. You may need to use your fingernail or a small tool to depress the tabs.
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With the inner casing open, you can now access the battery. The 2008 Subaru Legacy key fob with exposed metal key uses a CR 1620 battery.
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Remove the old CR 1620 battery and replace it with a new one, ensuring the correct polarity (positive side up) matches the original battery’s placement.
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Close the interior casing, making sure the tabs click back into place securely.
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Reassemble the exterior casing by snapping the two halves back together firmly until they are fully closed and flush.
What Battery Does My 2008 Subaru Legacy Key Fob Need?
For a 2008 Subaru Legacy, the key fob battery type depends on the fob style:
- Teardrop Shape Fob: Requires a 2025 battery.
- Exposed Metal Key Fob: Requires a CR 1620 battery.
It’s always a good idea to double-check your owner’s manual if you’re unsure, but these are the standard batteries for these 2008 Subaru Legacy key fob types. You can purchase these common batteries at most drugstores, supermarkets, and online retailers.
Key Fob Programming for Your 2008 Subaru Legacy
In most cases, replacing the battery in your 2008 Subaru Legacy key fob will restore its functionality without needing to reprogram it. However, if you continue to experience issues after replacing the battery, or if you’ve replaced the entire key fob, programming might be necessary.
For older Subaru models like the 2008 Legacy, DIY programming might be possible. The original article outlines a potential programming sequence. However, programming procedures can be complex and vary. For guaranteed success, especially with newer key fobs or persistent issues, it’s best to consult with a Subaru dealership or a qualified automotive locksmith. They have the specialized equipment and expertise to program your Subaru Legacy key fob correctly.
Conclusion
Replacing the battery in your 2008 Subaru Legacy key fob is typically a quick and easy fix for common key fob problems. By following these step-by-step instructions tailored to your key fob type, you can confidently restore your key fob’s functionality and avoid the inconvenience of a dead battery. If you encounter any difficulties or prefer professional assistance, Subaru dealerships and qualified mechanics are readily available to help with battery replacement or key fob programming for your 2008 Subaru Legacy.
