Start Subaru Dead Key Fob: Troubleshooting and Solutions

Starting your Subaru with a dead key fob can be a frustrating experience. This article will guide you through common causes and solutions for a dead key fob, providing step-by-step instructions for getting your Subaru back on the road. We’ll cover everything from simple battery replacements to more complex programming procedures.

Whether your key fob is completely unresponsive or intermittently failing, understanding the underlying issues is crucial. We’ll explore various scenarios, including key fob battery replacement, using the hidden key, and alternative starting methods.

Why Won’t My Subaru Start With a Dead Key Fob?

There are several reasons why your Subaru might not start with a seemingly dead key fob. The most common culprit is a dead key fob battery. Other possibilities include key fob malfunction, programming issues, or even problems with your Subaru’s immobilizer system. Identifying the correct issue is the first step to finding a solution.

How to Start a Subaru With a Dead Key Fob: Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you start your Subaru when your key fob battery is dead:

1. Check the Key Fob Battery: The easiest fix is often the most likely. Try replacing the key fob battery with a new one. You can find the correct battery type in your owner’s manual or online.

2. Use the Hidden Key: Most Subaru key fobs have a hidden mechanical key inside. This key can be used to unlock the driver’s side door and, in some models, to start the car. Consult your owner’s manual for the specific location of the key slot.

3. Try the Key Fob Near the Start Button: In some Subaru models, holding the dead key fob near the start button can provide enough power for the car to recognize the key and allow you to start the engine.

4. Check Your Owner’s Manual: Your Subaru owner’s manual will provide specific instructions for your car model, including details on how to start the car with a dead key fob.

Understanding Subaru’s Immobilizer System

Modern Subarus use an immobilizer system that prevents the car from starting without a recognized key. This system communicates with your key fob to verify its authenticity. If the key fob battery is dead, the communication can be disrupted, preventing the car from starting.

Troubleshooting Common Key Fob Issues

Beyond a dead battery, several other key fob issues can prevent your Subaru from starting. These include:

• Key Fob Malfunction: Internal damage to the key fob can prevent it from functioning correctly.
• Programming Issues: The key fob may need to be reprogrammed to your Subaru. This usually requires a professional locksmith or dealership.
• Immobilizer System Problems: Issues with the car’s immobilizer system itself can prevent the car from recognizing the key fob.

Similar to how to start subaru if key fob is dead, other car brands also have specific procedures for starting with a dead key fob.

Preventing Future Dead Key Fob Situations

Here are some tips to prevent finding yourself stranded with a dead key fob in the future:

• Regular Battery Replacement: Replace your key fob battery every 1-2 years, or as recommended in your owner’s manual.
• Keep a Spare Key: Having a spare programmed key fob can be a lifesaver.
• Know Your Car’s Starting Procedures: Familiarize yourself with the specific procedures for starting your Subaru with a dead key fob, as outlined in your owner’s manual.

Locating the Hidden Key in a Subaru Key Fob

For those interested in 2015 subaru wrx key fob battery, we have a dedicated guide on our website. This information could be particularly helpful for WRX owners.

Conclusion: Staying Ahead of a Dead Key Fob

A dead key fob can be a significant inconvenience. By understanding the potential causes and solutions, you can be prepared for this situation. Regular battery replacement, keeping a spare key, and familiarizing yourself with your car’s specific starting procedures will help you avoid being stranded. Remember to consult your owner’s manual for model-specific instructions. Start Subaru Dead Key Fob issues don’t have to be a headache.

This is similar to the issues discussed in battery for subaru impreza key fob. Understanding your key fob’s battery life can prevent many problems.

FAQs

1. How often should I replace my Subaru key fob battery?
2. What type of battery does my Subaru key fob use?
3. Can I program a new key fob myself?
4. Where is the key slot located in my Subaru?
5. What do I do if my Subaru still won’t start after replacing the key fob battery?
6. How do I know if my Subaru’s immobilizer system is malfunctioning?
7. Can I start my Subaru with a completely dead key fob?

Starting a Subaru with a Dead Key Fob Near the Start Button

You can find more information about programming your 2018 Subaru key fob at programming subaru key fob 2018.

If you are having trouble opening your trunk with your key fob, you might want to check out key fob doesn’t open trunk subaru. This article provides helpful solutions to common trunk-related key fob problems.

Need help? Contact us on Whatsapp: +1 (641) 206-8880 or visit us at 1326 N Houston St, Amarillo, TX 79107, USA. We have a 24/7 customer service team.