Experiencing issues with your Subaru key fob? A common culprit is a low or dead battery. Replacing the battery in your Subaru key fob is a straightforward process and can save you time and hassle. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about replacement batteries for your Subaru key fob, ensuring you keep your key fob working reliably.
Understanding Your Subaru Key Fob Battery
Most Subaru key fobs use a CR2032 coin cell battery. These batteries are widely available and relatively inexpensive. However, not all CR2032 batteries are created equal. The quality control in manufacturing can vary, and occasionally, a faulty battery might slip through. If you have a battery tester, it’s a good idea to check the voltage of a new battery before installing it in your fob to ensure it’s in good condition. Reputable brands like Energizer or Duracell are generally recommended for their quality and consistency. While Panasonic batteries are also a good choice, ensure you are purchasing genuine ones, especially when ordering online.
Factors Affecting Subaru Key Fob Battery Life
Several factors can influence how long your Subaru key fob battery lasts.
One factor is usage habits. Do you frequently press the lock/unlock buttons repeatedly as you approach or leave your vehicle? This habit can significantly drain the battery faster. Subaru vehicles offer touch-enabled locking and proximity unlocking features which can reduce the need to press buttons and conserve battery life. Utilizing the MySubaru/Starlink app for locking and unlocking in situations where you might be tempted to repeatedly press the fob buttons can also help extend battery life.
Another often overlooked factor is the proximity of your key fob to your vehicle when not in use. There’s evidence suggesting that keeping your smart fob too close to your Subaru can cause both the vehicle’s battery and the key fob battery to drain more quickly. To prevent this, store your key fob further away from your vehicle when you are at home, allowing both the car and fob to enter a low-power “sleep” mode. Alternatively, consider using a Faraday cage or a signal-blocking valet tray to store your fob, which prevents communication between the fob and the vehicle and can help preserve battery life.
Ensuring Reliable Key Fob Operation
By understanding these factors and choosing a quality replacement battery for your Subaru key fob, you can minimize unexpected battery failures. Regularly checking your emergency key to ensure it mechanically unlocks your door is also a wise precaution. Knowing how to start your Subaru with a “dead” fob, as demonstrated in various online videos, can also be helpful in unexpected situations. Taking these steps will help ensure your Subaru key fob remains a reliable part of your vehicle’s operation.
