Experiencing issues with your Subaru Ascent key fob can be incredibly frustrating, especially when you’re locked out of your vehicle or unable to secure it. If your Subaru Ascent key fob is not working, you’re not alone. Many owners encounter this problem, and thankfully, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take before heading to the dealership. This guide will walk you through the common causes of a malfunctioning key fob and provide practical solutions to get you back on the road.
Common Symptoms of a Failing Subaru Ascent Key Fob
Before diving into solutions, it’s important to identify the exact symptoms you’re experiencing. This can help pinpoint the root cause of the problem. Here are some typical signs that your Subaru Ascent key fob might be failing:
- Intermittent Functionality: The key fob works sometimes but not others, requiring multiple button presses or getting closer to the vehicle.
- No Response at All: The key fob buttons do nothing – no locking, unlocking, panic alarm, or remote start.
- Touch Sensor Issues: If your Ascent has touch-sensitive door handles, these may also become unresponsive when the key fob is failing.
- Remote Start Failure: You might be able to unlock and start the car manually, but the remote start function no longer works.
- Dashboard Warnings: In some cases, a failing key fob might trigger a warning light on your Subaru Ascent’s dashboard related to key or security systems.
Diagnosing Why Your Subaru Ascent Key Fob Is Not Working
Several factors can contribute to a non-working key fob. Let’s explore the most common culprits:
1. Dead or Weak Key Fob Battery
The most frequent cause of a key fob malfunction is a depleted battery. Key fobs rely on small batteries to transmit signals to your Subaru. Over time, these batteries naturally lose their charge.
A typical key fob battery is a CR2032 3V lithium coin cell battery. While these batteries are designed to last for a few years, heavy usage, extreme temperatures, and even manufacturing variations can shorten their lifespan.
Troubleshooting Tip: Even if you think the battery is relatively new, it’s the first and easiest thing to check. Voltage readings alone might not tell the whole story. As the original article mentioned, a battery can measure 3V but still lack sufficient power.
2. Proximity and Interference Issues
Sometimes, the issue isn’t the key fob itself, but rather external factors interfering with the signal.
- Distance: You might simply be too far from your Subaru Ascent for the key fob signal to reach effectively. Try moving closer to the vehicle.
- Radio Interference: Strong radio waves or electromagnetic interference from sources like cell towers, radio transmitters, or even certain electronic devices can sometimes disrupt the key fob signal. Try moving to a different location to rule out interference.
3. Key Fob Programming or Synchronization Problems
In less common cases, the key fob might lose its programming or synchronization with your Subaru Ascent’s security system. This can happen due to electronic glitches or after certain types of vehicle service.
4. Vehicle Battery Issues (Less Likely)
While less likely to directly cause key fob failure, a very weak or dying car battery could indirectly affect the key fob’s performance. If your car battery is struggling, it might not provide sufficient power to the vehicle’s receiver that communicates with the key fob. However, if your car starts and runs fine, this is probably not the primary issue.
5. Key Fob Damage or Malfunction
Physical damage to the key fob, such as from being dropped, getting wet, or exposure to extreme temperatures, can also lead to it not working. Internal components might be damaged, or the buttons could be malfunctioning.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting for Your Subaru Ascent Key Fob
Here’s a structured approach to troubleshoot your Subaru Ascent key fob:
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Check the Key Fob Battery:
- Replace the Battery: The simplest and most effective first step is to replace the CR2032 battery in your key fob. You can purchase these batteries at most drugstores, supermarkets, and electronics stores. Refer to your Subaru Ascent owner’s manual for instructions on how to open the key fob casing and replace the battery. You can also find helpful videos online demonstrating the process.
- Test with a New Battery: After replacing the battery, test all the key fob functions (lock, unlock, panic, remote start).
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Try Your Spare Key Fob: If you have a spare key fob, test if it works. If the spare works correctly, this strongly suggests the problem is with the original key fob, most likely the battery.
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Use the Subaru App for Remote Unlock (If Applicable): As demonstrated in the original post, using a smartphone app linked to your Subaru (like MySubaru app or Starlink) to remotely unlock the doors can help determine if the issue is with the key fob itself or a broader vehicle system problem. If the app works to unlock the doors, it indicates the car’s receiver is functioning, further pointing to the key fob as the source of the trouble.
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Try Proximity and Location Changes: Move closer to your Subaru and try using the key fob again. Also, try different locations, away from potential sources of radio interference.
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Inspect the Key Fob for Damage: Carefully examine the key fob for any signs of physical damage, cracks, or moisture.
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Consult Your Subaru Ascent Owner’s Manual: Your owner’s manual contains valuable information about key fob operation, troubleshooting tips, and potentially key fob reprogramming procedures.
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Contact Your Subaru Service Department: If you’ve tried these steps and your key fob still isn’t working, it’s time to contact your local Subaru dealership’s service department.
Subaru Warranty Coverage for Key Fobs
The good news is that, as mentioned in the original post and confirmed by Subaru service departments, key fobs and key fob batteries are typically covered under the new vehicle limited warranty. This warranty usually lasts for 3 years or 36,000 miles (check your specific warranty documentation for exact terms).
Key Takeaways about Warranty:
- Key Fob and Battery Coverage: Subaru warranties generally cover defects in materials or workmanship for the key fob itself and the original battery during the warranty period.
- No-Charge Battery Replacement: Dealerships will often replace the key fob battery at no charge if it’s determined to be the cause of the problem and the vehicle is still under warranty.
- Loaner Vehicles: If the issue is more complex and requires further diagnosis or repair, Subaru dealerships may provide loaner vehicles while your Ascent is being serviced (depending on the nature of the issue and dealership policies).
- Starlink/Roadside Assistance: Subaru Starlink (if you have a subscription) or Subaru Roadside Assistance can often provide remote unlocking services or arrange for towing if you are completely locked out of your vehicle due to a key fob issue.
Conclusion: Getting Your Key Fob Working Again
A malfunctioning Subaru Ascent key fob can be a minor inconvenience or a major headache. By systematically troubleshooting the common causes, starting with the key fob battery, you can often resolve the problem yourself. Remember to check your warranty coverage, as battery replacement and key fob issues are often covered by Subaru. If you’re still stuck, don’t hesitate to contact your Subaru service department for professional assistance. Getting your key fob back in working order will restore convenience and security to your Subaru Ascent ownership experience.
