It’s a common question among Subaru owners: how long should a key fob battery last? The lifespan of your Subaru key fob battery can vary depending on several factors, but understanding these can help you avoid being caught off guard by a dead fob. Let’s delve into the primary reasons influencing your key fob battery life and what you can do to maximize it.
One significant factor is the quality control (QC) of the CR2032 coin battery itself. Not all batteries are created equal. Even from reputable brands, occasionally a substandard battery can slip through. If you’re proactive, using a battery tester to check a new battery before installing it in your fob is a worthwhile step. While you can still manually unlock your Subaru with the emergency key and start the vehicle with a depleted fob, it can be an unsettling experience if you’re unprepared or unfamiliar with the procedure. It’s always recommended to check your physical emergency key to ensure it works correctly as a backup. For reliable replacements, established brands like Energizer or Duracell are generally consistent in quality. If you prefer Panasonic batteries, ensure you’re sourcing genuine ones, particularly when ordering online.
Another key factor is your usage habits. Do you frequently press the lock/unlock buttons on your key fob, perhaps multiple times as you approach or leave your Subaru? This habit, common among many drivers, does contribute to faster battery drain. A more efficient solution is to utilize your Subaru’s touch-enabled locking and proximity unlocking features, if your model is equipped with them. These features minimize button presses and can extend battery life. If you find yourself instinctively reaching for the fob buttons even after stepping away from your vehicle, consider using the MySubaru/Starlink app to lock or check the status of your car remotely.
Furthermore, there’s considerable evidence suggesting that keeping your smart fob too close to your Subaru can negatively impact battery life – and this applies across various car brands. Proximity can cause a continuous communication loop between the fob and the vehicle, leading to battery drain in both. To mitigate this, store your key fob further away from your Subaru when you are at home, allowing the vehicle to fully enter its “sleep” state. Alternatively, consider using a Faraday cage or a signal-blocking valet tray to store your fob when you’re not driving. This prevents the fob from constantly communicating with your vehicle and helps preserve battery life.
By understanding these factors – battery quality, usage habits, and proximity to the vehicle – you can better anticipate when you might need to change your Subaru key fob battery and take steps to prolong its life. Being mindful of these points can save you from unexpected key fob failures and ensure you always have reliable access to your Subaru.
