Is your Subaru 2020 key fob acting up? Perhaps it’s becoming less responsive, or maybe it’s stopped working altogether. Before you panic or rush to the dealership, the most common culprit is often a dead battery. Replacing the battery in your Subaru 2020 key fob is a straightforward task you can easily handle at home, saving you time and money. This guide will walk you through each step to get your key fob back in action quickly.
Identifying Your Subaru Key Fob Type
Subaru uses different key fob designs depending on the model year. For the 2020 model year, it’s highly likely your Subaru uses the bulging rectangle shape key fob. However, it’s always best to double-check your owner’s manual to confirm the exact type for your vehicle. Understanding your key fob type is the first step because it determines the battery you’ll need and the specific opening procedure.
There are generally three types of Subaru key fobs you might encounter:
- Bulging Rectangle Shape: This is the most common for newer Subaru models, including many 2020 vehicles. It typically uses a CR2032 battery.
- Teardrop Shape: An older design, this fob is less common on 2020 models but could still be present depending on the exact production date. It requires a CR2025 battery.
- Exposed Metal Key with Buttons: This is the oldest style of electronic Subaru key fob, featuring a permanently visible metal key. It uses a smaller CR1620 battery.
Once you’ve identified your key fob type, you can proceed with the battery replacement process outlined below. For Subaru 2020 models, we’ll focus primarily on the bulging rectangle shape fob, as it’s the most relevant.
Step-by-Step Subaru 2020 Key Fob Battery Replacement (Bulging Rectangle Shape)
If your Subaru 2020 uses the bulging rectangle key fob, follow these simple steps to replace the battery:
What you’ll need:
- A new CR2032 battery. You can find these at most drugstores, supermarkets, and online retailers.
- A small flathead screwdriver (optional, but helpful).
Steps:
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Remove the Emergency Key: Locate the small silver tab on the back of your Subaru 2020 key fob. Press and hold this tab to release and remove the metal emergency key. Set the key aside.
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Pry Open the Key Fob: With the emergency key removed, you’ll see a seam running around the edge of the key fob. Carefully insert your fingernail or a small flathead screwdriver into this seam. Gently twist or pry to separate the two halves of the fob. Take your time and avoid using excessive force to prevent damage to the casing.
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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 underneath the transmitter circuit board, depending on how the fob opens.
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Replace the Battery: Carefully release the old CR2032 battery. Note the orientation of the battery before removing it (usually the positive (+) side facing up). Pop the new CR2032 battery into place, ensuring the correct side is facing upwards. Minimize touching the flat surfaces of the new battery with your fingers to avoid transferring oils, which can reduce battery life.
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Reassemble the Key Fob: Align the two halves of the key fob casing and press them firmly back together until they snap securely. Re-insert the metal emergency key until it clicks into place.
That’s it! You’ve successfully replaced the battery in your Subaru 2020 key fob. Test the buttons to ensure it’s working correctly. In most cases, this simple battery replacement will resolve issues with your key fob’s functionality.
Replacing the Battery in Other Subaru Key Fob Types
While the Subaru 2020 model most likely uses the bulging rectangular fob, here’s a quick guide for the other types if you happen to have an older model or want to be comprehensive:
Teardrop Shape Key Fob (CR2025 Battery)
The process for the teardrop-shaped fob is very similar to the bulging rectangle one. The main difference is that the teardrop fob does not have an emergency key release. You will skip step 1 and proceed directly to prying open the fob to access and replace the CR2025 battery. The remaining steps for battery removal and reassembly are identical to those outlined for the bulging rectangle fob.
Exposed Metal Key with Buttons (CR1620 Battery)
This older style fob requires a slightly different approach due to its two-casing design.
- Open the Exterior Casing: This process is similar to opening the bulging rectangle fob. You’ll need to pry open the main casing to access the interior components.
- Open the Interior Casing: Once the exterior casing is open, you’ll find a second, smaller casing inside. This interior casing usually has small tabs that you need to press to release and open it.
- Replace the Battery: Inside the inner casing, you’ll find the CR1620 battery. Replace it with a new one, ensuring correct polarity.
- Reassemble: Close the interior casing, place it back inside the exterior casing, and snap everything back together.
What If a New Battery Doesn’t Solve the Problem?
In the vast majority of cases, replacing the key fob battery will restore its functionality. However, if you’ve replaced the battery and your Subaru 2020 key fob still isn’t working, there might be other issues. Here are a few possibilities:
- Key Fob Programming: Sometimes, after a battery replacement, or in other situations, your key fob may need to be reprogrammed to communicate with your vehicle. While the original article mentions a DIY programming method for older fobs, for newer Subaru models like the 2020, key fob programming is typically best handled by a dealership or qualified automotive locksmith.
- Key Fob Damage: If your key fob has been dropped, exposed to moisture, or otherwise damaged, internal components might be faulty. In this case, key fob replacement might be necessary.
- Vehicle Issues: In rare cases, problems with your Subaru’s receiver or electrical system could be causing key fob issues.
If a new battery doesn’t fix the problem, it’s recommended to contact your local Subaru dealership or a trusted automotive service center. They can diagnose the issue accurately and recommend the appropriate solution, whether it’s key fob reprogramming, replacement, or addressing a vehicle-related problem.
For Subaru 2020 Key Fob Battery replacement, this guide provides you with the knowledge and steps to confidently tackle this common maintenance task yourself. Enjoy the convenience of a fully functional key fob once again!
