Are you having trouble with your 2011 Subaru Forester key fob? Perhaps it’s stopped working, or you’ve obtained a replacement and need to get it programmed. Many 2011 Subaru Forester owners find themselves in this situation, and the good news is, for this model year, you might be able to program a new key fob yourself, right in your driveway.
While newer Subaru models typically require a visit to an authorized dealership for key fob programming, the 2011 Subaru Forester often offers a more DIY-friendly approach. This guide from keyfobprog.com, your trusted resource for automotive key solutions, will walk you through the steps for 2011 Subaru Forester Key Fob Programming. We’ll also cover battery replacement for your key fob to ensure you’re fully equipped to handle common key fob issues.
Understanding Your 2011 Subaru Forester Key Fob
Before diving into the programming process, let’s confirm if your 2011 Subaru Forester key fob is the type you can program at home. Subaru key fobs that are owner-programmable often have a distinct teardrop shape. Check your key fob; if it matches this description, you’re likely in luck and can proceed with the DIY programming method.
Identifying Programmable Key Fobs
Look closely at your 2011 Subaru Forester key fob. Does it have a teardrop shape? This is a key indicator that you can likely program it yourself. This style of key fob was common for Subaru models around 2011, making it easier for owners to manage key fob programming without needing specialized dealership equipment.
How to Find Your 8-Digit Subaru Key Fob Programming Code for a 2011 Forester
To start the programming sequence, you’ll need to locate an 8-digit code inside your key fob. Here’s how to find it:
- Open the Key Fob Casing: Carefully open the case of your 2011 Subaru Forester key fob. This will give you access to the transmitter circuit board inside.
- Locate the 8-Digit Code: Examine the transmitter circuit board. You should see one or two sets of numbers, each containing 8 digits.
- Record the First 8-Digit Number: Write down the first 8-digit number series you find. This is the code you’ll need for programming.
- Reassemble the Key Fob: Put the key fob case back together securely.
- Get Ready in Your Subaru Forester: Sit in the driver’s seat of your 2011 Subaru Forester. Ensure all doors are fully closed, and the vehicle is turned off.
Step-by-Step Programming Guide for Your 2011 Subaru Forester Key Fob
Now that you have your 8-digit code, follow these steps carefully and promptly to program your 2011 Subaru Forester key fob:
Preparing Your Subaru
- Open and Unlock Driver’s Side Door: Open the driver’s side door and use the door button control to unlock all doors.
- Close Driver’s Side Door: Shut the driver’s side door.
Entering Programming Mode
- Insert Key into Ignition: Put your Subaru key into the ignition.
- Cycle Ignition Quickly Ten Times: Turn the key to the “ON” position (where the electrical systems are powered but the engine is not started), then immediately turn it back to the “OFF” position. Repeat this sequence rapidly ten times.
- Listen for the Chime: After the tenth cycle, the instrument panel should emit a chime sound.
- Open and Close Driver’s Door Again: Open and then close the driver’s side door once more.
- Second Chime and Dome Light Flash: You should hear a second chime, and the vehicle’s dome lights will flash. This indicates that your 2011 Subaru Forester has entered programming mode. You now have approximately 45 seconds to input your 8-digit code.
Inputting the 8-Digit Code
- Locate Lock/Unlock Buttons: Find the lock and unlock buttons on the driver’s side door panel, usually positioned near the power window controls.
- Enter Each Digit Using Lock/Unlock: For each digit in your 8-digit code:
- Press the “Lock” button the number of times corresponding to the digit. For example, for the digit ‘3’, press the “Lock” button three times.
- Immediately after pressing the “Lock” button(s), press the “Unlock” button once.
- Repeat for All Digits: Repeat step 2 for each of the eight digits in your code sequence.
- Confirmation Chime: After entering all eight digits, you should hear a chime from outside your 2011 Subaru Forester, confirming successful code entry.
- Verify Code Entry: Repeat steps 2 and 3 to enter the 8-digit code a second time to confirm it was entered correctly. If successful, you will hear the vehicle’s locking system engage (a clicking sound).
Confirmation and Testing
- Open and Close Door, Press Key Fob Button: Open and close the driver’s door, then press either the lock or unlock button on your newly programmed key fob.
- Remove Key from Ignition: Take the key out of the ignition. A chime should sound again.
- Final Door Cycle and Test: Open and close the door one last time. Wait approximately five seconds. Your 2011 Subaru Forester key fob should now be programmed and working! Test all buttons on the fob to ensure they are functioning correctly.
Replacing the Battery in Your 2011 Subaru Forester Key Fob
Sometimes, key fob issues aren’t due to programming but simply a dead battery. Even for newer, rectangular-shaped Subaru key fobs, battery replacement is a straightforward process. While the 2011 Forester typically uses the teardrop fob, understanding battery replacement is useful for all Subaru owners.
Battery Replacement for Newer Subaru Key Fobs (Rectangular Shape) – Typically Uses a 2032 Battery
While your 2011 Subaru Forester may have a teardrop fob, newer Subaru models often use a rectangular key fob. These usually require a CR2032 battery. Here’s how to replace the battery in a rectangular Subaru key fob:
- Remove the Mechanical Key: On the back of the key fob, locate and push the small silver tab. This will release the mechanical key; pull it out.
- Pry Open the Fob Casing: Where the mechanical key was housed, you’ll see a small gap. Insert the tip of the mechanical key or a flathead screwdriver into this gap.
- Open the Key Fob Cover: Gently twist the key or screwdriver to pry open the key fob cover.
- Locate the Battery: The battery is usually located on one side of the transmitter circuit board.
- Remove and Replace Battery: Carefully remove the old battery. Take note of which side is facing up (+ side). Place the new CR2032 battery in the same orientation.
- Reassemble the Key Fob: Carefully snap the key fob cover back together until it’s securely closed. Re-insert the mechanical key.
Still Having Trouble?
If you’ve followed these steps for 2011 Subaru Forester key fob programming and are still experiencing issues, or if you have a newer Subaru model, don’t hesitate to contact our parts department for assistance. Our experts at keyfobprog.com are here to help with any questions you may have regarding Subaru key fobs, replacement, or programming. We also offer a wide range of OEM Subaru parts and accessories to keep your Subaru running smoothly. Reach out to us online or explore our parts specials today!
