Dealing with a dead key fob battery is a common inconvenience for Subaru owners. Fortunately, replacing the battery in your Subaru key fob is a straightforward process you can easily handle yourself. This guide will walk you through the simple steps to change your Subaru key fob battery and get you back on the road with a functional remote.
What You’ll Need to Change Your Subaru Key Fob Battery
Before you begin, gather these minimal tools:
- A new CR2032 battery: This is the standard battery type for most Subaru key fobs. You can find these at most drugstores, supermarkets, and electronics stores.
- A small flathead screwdriver or similar tool: A thin tool will help you gently open the key fob case. A guitar pick or even the emergency key from your fob can also work.
- Soft cloth (optional): To protect the key fob from scratches.
Step-by-Step Guide to Subaru Key Fob Battery Replacement
Follow these easy steps to replace the battery in your Subaru key fob:
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Locate the Notch and Emergency Key: On most Subaru key fobs, you’ll find a small notch on the side or bottom of the fob. You’ll also need to remove the mechanical emergency key. This is usually done by sliding or pressing a small release button on the fob. Remove the emergency key and set it aside.
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Pry Open the Key Fob: Insert the flathead screwdriver or your chosen tool into the notch. Gently twist or pry to separate the two halves of the key fob casing. Be careful not to apply excessive force, as you could damage the plastic. Work your way around the seam if needed until the case pops open.
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Access the Battery: Once the fob is open, you’ll see the circuit board and the battery. The CR2032 battery is typically held in place by small clips or a retaining bracket.
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Remove the Old Battery: Carefully note the orientation of the old battery (+ side up or down) before removing it. Use your fingertip or the tip of the screwdriver to gently pry the old battery out of its housing.
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Insert the New CR2032 Battery: Install the new CR2032 battery, ensuring the correct polarity (+ side should match the original battery orientation). Push the battery firmly into place until it’s securely held by the clips.
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Reassemble the Key Fob: Carefully align the two halves of the key fob casing and press them back together until they snap securely shut. Ensure there are no gaps and the case is firmly closed.
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Test Your Key Fob: Insert the emergency key back into the fob. Test the buttons on your key fob to ensure they are now working correctly, locking and unlocking your Subaru, and activating other functions like the panic button or remote start if equipped.
Tips to Extend Your Subaru Key Fob Battery Life
While changing the battery is simple, you can optimize battery life with these tips:
- Battery Quality Matters: Using reputable brands like Energizer or Duracell for your CR2032 batteries can contribute to longer battery life. While cheaper batteries are available, they may not offer the same longevity or reliability.
- Avoid Excessive Button Pressing: Habitually pressing the lock/unlock buttons repeatedly, especially from a distance, can drain the battery faster. Use the touch-sensitive door handles or proximity locking/unlocking features on your Subaru if equipped. For those moments when you are unsure if you locked the car, using the MySubaru app (if available for your model) is a more energy-efficient way to check and control your vehicle.
- Key Fob Storage: Keeping your key fob too close to your Subaru when at home might contribute to faster battery drain in both the fob and the car. Consider storing your key fob further away from your vehicle when you’re not using it. Some owners even use Faraday bags to block signals and potentially extend battery life if they suspect signal interference is an issue.
By following these steps, you can easily change your Subaru key fob battery and maintain optimal performance. Regular battery replacement ensures you won’t be caught off guard by a dead key fob, keeping you connected to your Subaru without interruption.
