Is your 2022 Subaru Legacy key fob not working as reliably as it used to? Perhaps you’re finding yourself needing to press the buttons multiple times, or maybe it’s stopped working altogether. The most common culprit is a dead battery. Fortunately, replacing the battery in your Subaru Legacy key fob is a straightforward process you can easily do yourself. This guide will walk you through each step, ensuring you can get your key fob back in working order quickly and efficiently. No need to panic or immediately schedule a service appointment – let’s get you back into your Legacy with a fresh key fob battery!
Identifying Your Subaru Legacy Key Fob and Battery Type
Subaru has utilized a few different key fob designs over the years. For the 2022 Subaru Legacy, you’ll likely have one of two main types of key fobs. Knowing which one you have is crucial because it dictates the battery you’ll need and the exact steps for replacement.
1. Bulging Rectangle Shape Key Fob:
This is a common style for newer Subaru models, including the 2022 Legacy. It features a rounded, bulging rectangular shape. This type of key fob typically uses a CR2032 battery.
2. Teardrop Shape Key Fob:
While less common for the 2022 model year, some 2022 Legacy models might still use the older teardrop-shaped fob. This fob is characterized by its teardrop or oval shape. This older style key fob generally requires a CR2025 battery.
If you’re unsure which key fob you have, or to confirm the battery type, your owner’s manual is the best resource. However, visually comparing your key fob to the descriptions and images below should help you identify it quickly.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your 2022 Subaru Legacy Key Fob Battery
Once you’ve identified your key fob type, follow the corresponding instructions to replace the battery. The process is similar for both types, making it a simple DIY task.
Replacing the Battery in a Bulging Rectangle Subaru Key Fob (CR2032 Battery)
This guide is for the more common bulging rectangle key fob used with the 2022 Subaru Legacy. You will need a new CR2032 battery and a small flathead screwdriver.
-
Remove the Emergency Key: Locate the small silver tab on the back of your key fob. Press and hold this tab to release and remove the metal emergency key.
-
Pry Open the Key Fob: After removing the emergency key, you’ll see a seam running around the key fob. Carefully insert a small flathead screwdriver into this seam, near where you removed the emergency key. Gently twist the screwdriver to pry the two halves of the key fob apart. Be careful not to apply excessive force to avoid damaging the casing.
-
Locate the Battery: Once the fob is open, you’ll see the transmitter circuit board. The flat, round CR2032 battery will be visible, either on top of or underneath this board, depending on how the fob opened.
-
Replace the Battery: Carefully remove the old CR2032 battery. You may need to gently pry it out with your fingertip or the flathead screwdriver. Take the new CR2032 battery and place it into the battery compartment, ensuring the correct side (usually marked with a “+” symbol) is facing upwards. Minimize touching the flat surfaces of the new battery with your fingers to avoid transferring oils.
-
Reassemble the Key Fob: Snap the two halves of the key fob casing back together. They should click securely into place. Finally, re-insert the metal emergency key until it locks.
Replacing the Battery in a Teardrop Shape Subaru Key Fob (CR2025 Battery)
If your 2022 Subaru Legacy uses the teardrop-shaped key fob, the battery replacement process is very similar. The main difference is that this older fob style doesn’t have a removable emergency key. You’ll need a CR2025 battery for this type.
-
Pry Open the Key Fob: Locate the seam on the teardrop-shaped key fob. Use a small flathead screwdriver to gently pry open the two halves of the fob, similar to step 2 in the bulging rectangle fob instructions.
-
Locate and Replace the Battery: Once open, locate the CR2025 battery inside. Remove the old battery and replace it with a new CR2025 battery, ensuring the correct polarity.
-
Reassemble the Key Fob: Press the two halves of the teardrop key fob back together until they snap shut securely.
What if a New Battery Doesn’t Solve the Problem?
In most cases, replacing the key fob battery will restore its functionality. However, if you’ve replaced the battery and your 2022 Subaru Legacy key fob is still not working correctly, there might be another issue.
- Key Fob Programming: Occasionally, the key fob might need to be reprogrammed to your vehicle, especially if the battery was dead for an extended period or if there was an electrical surge. While the original article mentions a DIY programming method for older fobs, for newer Subaru models like the 2022 Legacy, key fob programming is typically best handled by a dealership.
- Key Fob Damage: If your key fob has been dropped, damaged by water, or is simply old, there could be internal damage beyond just the battery. In this case, you may need to replace the entire key fob.
- Vehicle Issues: In rare cases, problems with your Subaru Legacy’s electrical system could mimic key fob issues.
If you’re still experiencing problems after a battery replacement, it’s recommended to contact a certified Subaru service center. They can diagnose the issue accurately and provide the necessary solutions, whether it’s reprogramming, key fob replacement, or addressing a vehicle-related problem.
Conclusion
Replacing the battery in your 2022 Subaru Legacy key fob is usually a quick and simple fix for common key fob issues. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can save time and money by handling this maintenance task yourself. However, remember that if a new battery doesn’t resolve the problem, professional assistance from a Subaru dealership is available to ensure your key fob and vehicle are working seamlessly together. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your local Subaru service center for expert help and to explore service specials that can make any necessary repairs more affordable.
