Is your 2011 Subaru Legacy key fob malfunctioning, or did you get a replacement that needs programming? You might be pleased to know that for certain older Subaru models like the 2011 Legacy, programming a key fob at home is a viable option. While newer models often require a trip to the dealership, you can potentially save time and money by following a DIY approach for your 2011 Subaru Legacy.
This guide from our experts at keyfobprog.com will walk you through the process of programming your 2011 Subaru Legacy key fob. We’ll also cover how to replace the battery in your key fob, ensuring you have all the information you need to keep your Subaru secure and accessible.
Before we begin, it’s crucial to identify the type of key fob your 2011 Subaru Legacy uses. The key fobs that are typically programmable at home are characterized by a teardrop shape. If your key fob matches this description, you’re likely in luck and can proceed with the steps below.
Finding Your 8-Digit Subaru Key Fob Programming Code for a 2011 Legacy
The first step in programming your 2011 Subaru Legacy key fob is to locate the 8-digit programming code. This code is essential for your Subaru to recognize the new key fob. Here’s how to find it:
- Access the Transmitter Circuit Board: Carefully open the key fob case. You’ll need to access the transmitter circuit board inside. Gently pry open the case, usually starting near the key ring loop.
- Locate the 8-Digit Code: Examine the transmitter circuit board. You should see one or two series of numbers, each containing 8 digits.
- Record the First 8-Digit Number: Write down the first 8-digit number series you see. This is the programming code you will need.
- Reassemble the Key Fob: Carefully put the key fob case back together once you have noted the code.
- Prepare Your Subaru: Get into the driver’s seat of your 2011 Subaru Legacy. Ensure all doors are completely closed, and the ignition is turned off.
Alt text: Accessing the transmitter circuit board inside a teardrop-shaped Subaru key fob to locate the 8-digit programming code.
Programming Your 2011 Subaru Legacy Key Fob: Entering the Code
With your 8-digit code in hand, you’re ready to program your 2011 Subaru Legacy key fob. It’s important to perform the following steps in a timely manner for successful programming:
- Prepare the Doors and Ignition: Open the driver’s side door of your Subaru Legacy and use the door button control to unlock all doors. Then, close the driver’s side door.
- Insert and Turn the Ignition Key (Part 1): Insert your key into the ignition switch.
- Cycle the Ignition (10 Times): Turn the ignition key to the “ON” position (where the electrical systems are active, but without starting the engine), and then quickly turn it back to the “OFF” position. Repeat this sequence ten times in rapid succession.
- Listen for the Chime (First Chime): After the tenth ignition cycle, you should hear a chime from the instrument panel. This indicates the system is entering programming mode.
- Open and Close Driver’s Door: Open and then close the driver’s side door again.
- Listen for the Chime and Dome Lights (Second Chime): You should hear a second chime, and the vehicle’s dome lights will flash. This confirms you have successfully entered the key fob programming mode and have approximately 45 seconds to input the code.
Alt text: The ignition of a 2011 Subaru Legacy with the key inserted, ready for the sequence to initiate key fob programming mode.
Entering the 8-Digit Code Using the Lock/Unlock Buttons
Now, you’ll use the lock/unlock buttons on the driver’s side door of your 2011 Subaru Legacy to enter the 8-digit programming code you retrieved earlier:
- Locate Lock/Unlock Buttons: Find the lock and unlock buttons on the driver’s side door panel, usually situated near the power window controls.
- Enter Each Digit: For each digit in your 8-digit code:
- Press the “lock” button the number of times corresponding to the digit. For example, if the first digit is ‘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 (Exterior): After entering all eight digits, you should hear a chime coming from outside the vehicle. This confirms that the code has been recognized.
- Verify Code Entry: Repeat steps 2 and 3 to re-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).
- Test the Key Fob: Open and close the driver’s door. Then, press the “lock” or “unlock” button on your newly programmed key fob.
- Remove Key and Final Chime: Remove the key from the ignition. You should hear another chime.
- Final Door Cycle and Test: Open and close the door one last time. Wait approximately five seconds, and then test all the buttons on your key fob to ensure it is working correctly with your 2011 Subaru Legacy.
How to Replace the Battery in Your 2011 Subaru Legacy Key Fob
While programming is essential for a new key fob, sometimes a simple battery replacement is all that’s needed to solve key fob issues. If your 2011 Subaru Legacy uses a newer, rectangular-shaped key fob (common in later models, but possible in some 2011 Legacies depending on trim and options), here’s how to replace the battery:
Battery Replacement for Rectangle Shape Subaru Key Fob (Typically Requires a 2032 Battery)
- Remove the Metal Key: On the back of the rectangular key fob, locate a small silver tab or button. Push this tab to release and slide out the mechanical metal key.
- Pry Open the Key Fob: In the area where you removed the metal key, you’ll see a small gap between the front and back halves of the key fob. Insert the tip of the metal key or a small flathead screwdriver into this gap.
- Open the Casing: Gently twist the key or screwdriver to carefully pry open the key fob cover.
- Locate the Battery: Once open, find the battery. It’s usually a small, round, flat battery (like a CR2032) located on the circuit board.
- Replace the Battery: Remove the old battery and install a new one of the same type (usually CR2032). Ensure the positive (+) side of the battery is facing upwards, as indicated by markings in the battery compartment.
- Reassemble the Key Fob: Carefully snap the key fob cover back together until it is securely closed. Re-insert the metal key.
Alt text: Exploded view of a rectangular Subaru key fob, highlighting the location of the CR2032 battery for replacement.
Need Further Assistance? Contact Our Parts Department
If you encounter any difficulties programming your 2011 Subaru Legacy key fob, or if you are unsure about the type of key fob or battery you need, don’t hesitate to contact our Subaru parts department. Our knowledgeable staff can provide further guidance and answer any questions you may have about Subaru key fob replacement or programming. We also carry genuine OEM Subaru parts and accessories, ensuring you get the right components for your vehicle. You can easily reach out to us online or visit our parts store for assistance and to explore our current parts specials.
