Is your 2019 Subaru Impreza key fob not working as reliably as it used to? Perhaps you’re finding you need to be closer and closer to your vehicle for it to unlock, or maybe it’s stopped working altogether. In many cases, the solution is as simple as replacing the key fob battery. Don’t worry, you don’t always need a trip to the dealership. Replacing the battery in your 2019 Subaru Impreza key fob is a straightforward process you can easily do yourself. This guide will walk you through each step, ensuring you get your key fob back in perfect working order in no time.
Understanding Your Subaru Key Fob and Battery Needs
Before we dive into the replacement process, it’s helpful to understand the type of key fob your 2019 Subaru Impreza uses and the battery it requires. For the 2019 Impreza, Subaru typically utilized a key fob with a bulging rectangular shape. This particular fob is designed for user-friendly battery replacement and uses a common CR2032 battery.
While your owner’s manual is always the best resource to confirm specifics for your vehicle, this guide is tailored to the most common key fob for the 2019 Subaru Impreza. Knowing you likely need a CR2032 battery allows you to be prepared before you even open your fob.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replace Your 2019 Subaru Impreza Key Fob Battery (Bulging Rectangle Shape)
Replacing the battery in your rectangular 2019 Subaru Impreza key fob is a simple task that requires no special tools. Here’s how to do it:
- Locate and Remove the Emergency Key: On the back of your key fob, you’ll find a small, usually silver, tab. Press and hold this tab. While pressing the tab, you should be able to slide out and remove the metal emergency key. Set the emergency key aside in a safe place.
Alt text: Removing the metal emergency key from the back of a rectangular Subaru key fob to access the battery compartment.
- Pry Open the Key Fob: With the emergency key removed, you’ll notice a seam running around the center of the key fob. This is where you need to gently pry it open. You can often use your fingernail to start separating the two halves. If needed, a flathead screwdriver can be carefully inserted into the seam to help gently pry the fob open. Be cautious not to apply too much force, as you only want to separate the two halves of the casing.
Alt text: Gently prying open the two halves of a Subaru key fob casing using a flathead screwdriver to access the internal battery.
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Identify the Battery Location: Once open, you’ll see the inside components of your key fob. The flat, round CR2032 battery will be visible, either sitting on top of or underneath the transmitter circuit board, depending on how the fob opened.
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Remove and Replace the Old Battery: Carefully remove the old CR2032 battery. You might be able to gently pry it out with your fingernail, or if it’s snug, carefully use the tip of a pen or small non-metallic tool to dislodge it. Take note of which side of the battery is facing up (+ side).
Alt text: Removing the depleted CR2032 coin cell battery from the Subaru key fob to prepare for replacement.
- Insert the New CR2032 Battery: Take your new CR2032 battery and insert it into the battery compartment. Ensure the correct side (the + side) is facing upwards, matching the orientation of the old battery you just removed. Try to avoid touching the flat surfaces of the new battery with your bare fingers as oils from your skin can sometimes reduce battery life.
Alt text: Installing a new CR2032 battery into the Subaru key fob, ensuring correct polarity for proper function.
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Reassemble the Key Fob: Carefully align the two halves of the key fob casing and press them firmly back together until they snap securely. You should hear or feel a click as they rejoin.
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Re-insert the Emergency Key: Slide the metal emergency key back into its slot until it clicks into place.
Your 2019 Subaru Impreza Key Fob Battery replacement is now complete! Test the buttons to ensure your doors lock and unlock as expected.
Alternative Subaru Key Fob Types (For Reference)
While the rectangular fob is common for the 2019 Impreza, Subaru has used other key fob designs in different years and models. For informational purposes, here’s a brief overview of two other types you might encounter:
Teardrop Shape Key Fob
Older Subaru models sometimes used a teardrop-shaped key fob. These fobs typically use a CR2025 battery. The battery replacement process is very similar to the rectangular fob, but these teardrop fobs do not have a removable emergency key. You will simply pry the two halves of the fob directly to access the battery.
Exposed Metal Key with Buttons Fob
The oldest style of electronic Subaru key fob features an exposed metal key that is always visible. These fobs are unique because they have an exterior casing and a smaller interior casing. These fobs use a CR1620 battery. To replace the battery, you’ll first open the exterior casing as you would with the rectangular fob. Then, you’ll need to locate and press small tabs on the interior casing to open it and access the CR1620 battery.
What If Replacing the Battery Doesn’t Solve the Problem?
If you’ve replaced your 2019 Subaru Impreza key fob battery and are still experiencing issues, there are a few potential reasons:
- Incorrect Battery Type: Double-check that you used a CR2032 battery for the rectangular fob. Using the wrong battery type can prevent the fob from working.
- Battery Polarity: Ensure the new battery is installed with the correct polarity (+ side up).
- Key Fob Damage: If your key fob has been dropped, exposed to moisture, or is quite old, internal damage could be the issue.
- Key Fob Programming: In rare cases, or if you’ve replaced the fob itself, it might need to be reprogrammed to your vehicle.
Key Fob Programming (When Necessary)
While battery replacement usually doesn’t require reprogramming, if you suspect your 2019 Subaru Impreza key fob needs programming, it’s generally recommended to visit a Subaru dealership or a qualified automotive locksmith. Modern Subaru key fobs often require specialized equipment for programming.
For older Subaru models (and potentially as a troubleshooting step – though less likely for a 2019 Impreza), there may be DIY programming procedures. However, these are complex and not officially recommended for newer vehicles due to security complexities. It’s best to consult your owner’s manual or a professional for programming advice specific to your 2019 Impreza.
Get Expert Help at Keyfobprog.com
If you’re still having trouble with your 2019 Subaru Impreza key fob after replacing the battery, or if you’d prefer to have a professional handle the battery replacement or any potential programming needs, the experts at keyfobprog.com are here to assist. Our trained technicians can quickly diagnose any key fob issues and provide the necessary services to get you back on the road with a fully functional key fob. Contact us today to schedule a service appointment and experience hassle-free key fob solutions.
