Is your 2014 Subaru Crosstrek key fob not working as reliably as it used to? A common culprit is a dead or dying battery. Don’t worry, replacing the battery in your Subaru Crosstrek key fob is a straightforward task you can easily handle yourself. This guide will walk you through each step to get your key fob working like new again, saving you time and potential dealership costs.
Identifying Your 2014 Subaru Crosstrek Key Fob Type
Subaru, including the 2014 Crosstrek, uses a few different key fob designs. Knowing which type you have is the first step to a smooth battery replacement. While your owner’s manual is the best resource for definitive identification, here are the common types you might encounter for your 2014 Subaru Crosstrek:
-
Bulging Rectangle Shape: This is a more modern design. It’s characterized by its rectangular shape with a noticeable bulge. This type of fob usually has a small silver tab to release a hidden emergency metal key.
-
Teardrop Shape: An older, more rounded design resembling a teardrop. This fob typically lacks the separate, removable emergency key.
-
Exposed Metal Key with Buttons: This is the oldest style, where the metal key is always visible and integrated into the fob body. This design often has an outer casing and a smaller inner casing.
Once you’ve identified your key fob type, you can proceed to the battery replacement steps specific to your model.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replace Your 2014 Subaru Crosstrek Key Fob Battery
Regardless of your 2014 Subaru Crosstrek key fob style, the battery replacement process is generally simple. You’ll primarily need a new battery of the correct type and a small flathead screwdriver or similar tool.
2014 Subaru Crosstrek Key Fob Battery Replacement – Bulging Rectangle Shape
Battery Type: CR2032
-
Remove the Emergency Key: Locate the small silver tab on the back of your bulging rectangular key fob. Press and hold this tab to release and slide out the metal emergency key. Set the key aside.
-
Pry Open the Fob: Carefully inspect the seam running around the edge of the key fob. Insert a thin flathead screwdriver or a similar prying tool into this seam. Gently twist or pry to separate the two halves of the fob casing. Take your time and avoid excessive force to prevent damage to the plastic.
-
Locate the Battery: Once the fob is open, you’ll see the internal components. The flat, round CR2032 battery will be visible, either on top of or beneath the transmitter circuit board, depending on how the fob opened.
-
Replace the Battery: Note the orientation of the old battery (positive side up or down). Gently release the old battery from its holder. You may be able to pry it out with your fingertip or the flathead screwdriver. Insert the new CR2032 battery, ensuring the correct side is facing upwards, matching the orientation of the old battery. Minimize touching the flat surfaces of the new battery to prolong its life.
-
Reassemble the Fob: Carefully snap the two halves of the key fob casing back together. Press firmly until you hear or feel them click securely into place. Re-insert the metal emergency key until it locks.
2014 Subaru Crosstrek Key Fob Battery Replacement – Teardrop Shape
Battery Type: CR2025
The process for the teardrop-shaped key fob is very similar to the bulging rectangle type. The main difference is the battery type and the absence of an emergency key release.
-
Pry Open the Fob: Find the seam around the teardrop key fob. Use a flathead screwdriver or prying tool to carefully open the two halves of the fob casing, just like with the rectangular fob.
-
Locate and Replace the Battery: Identify the CR2025 battery inside. Remove the old battery and install the new CR2025 battery, paying attention to the correct polarity.
-
Reassemble the Fob: Snap the two halves of the teardrop key fob back together until they are securely closed.
2014 Subaru Crosstrek Key Fob Battery Replacement – Exposed Metal Key With Buttons
Battery Type: CR1620
This older style fob for your 2014 Subaru Crosstrek requires an extra step due to its nested casing design.
-
Open the Outer Casing: The process for opening the outer casing is similar to the other fob types. Locate the seam and gently pry it open with a flathead screwdriver.
-
Open the Inner Casing: Once the outer casing is open, you’ll see a smaller, inner casing. This inner casing will have small tabs or clips holding it together. Carefully press or manipulate these tabs to open the inner casing and access the battery.
-
Replace the Battery: The battery in this fob type is a CR1620. Remove the old battery and replace it with a new CR1620, ensuring correct polarity.
-
Reassemble Both Casings: Close the inner casing first, making sure it snaps shut securely. Then, place the inner casing back into the outer casing and snap the outer casing closed.
What If a New Battery Doesn’t Solve the Problem?
In most cases, replacing the battery will restore your 2014 Subaru Crosstrek key fob to proper working order. However, if you’ve replaced the battery and your key fob still isn’t functioning correctly, there might be another issue.
-
Key Fob Programming: Occasionally, the key fob may lose its programming, especially after battery replacement in some older models, or if there were other electrical issues. While less common after a simple battery change, reprogramming might be necessary. Some older Subaru models allow for DIY key fob programming, but newer models, and often the rectangular fobs, require dealership programming.
-
Key Fob Damage: If your key fob has been dropped, exposed to moisture, or is simply old, internal damage could be the cause of malfunction. In this case, key fob replacement might be needed.
-
Vehicle Issues: In rare cases, the issue might not be the key fob itself but a problem with your 2014 Subaru Crosstrek’s receiver or immobilizer system.
If you’ve tried a new battery and are still experiencing problems, it’s best to consult with a qualified Subaru service technician. They can diagnose the issue accurately and advise on the best course of action, whether it’s key fob reprogramming or addressing a potential vehicle problem. Your local Subaru dealership or a trusted automotive locksmith specializing in key fobs can assist you further.
