Is your 2021 Subaru key fob not working as reliably as it used to? Before you worry about complicated issues, the most common culprit is often a simple fix: a dead battery. Replacing the battery in your Subaru 2021 key fob is a straightforward task that you can easily handle yourself, saving you time and a trip to the dealership. This guide will walk you through each step to get your key fob working like new again.
Understanding the type of key fob your 2021 Subaru uses is the first step. Subaru employs different key fob designs depending on the model and year. For 2021 models, you’ll likely encounter one of the following styles, each requiring a specific battery type. If you’re unsure, your owner’s manual is the best resource to confirm your key fob type and the correct battery. Let’s explore the battery replacement process for each common 2021 Subaru key fob.
Replacing the Battery in a Bulging Rectangle Subaru Key Fob (2021 Models)
This type of key fob, characterized by its bulging rectangular shape, is common in many newer Subaru 2021 vehicles. It uses a 2032 battery. Here’s how to replace it:
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Remove the Emergency Key: Locate the small silver tab on the back of your Subaru 2021 key fob. Press and hold this tab to release and slide out the metal emergency key.
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Open the Key Fob Casing: With the emergency key removed, you’ll see a seam where the two halves of the fob casing join. Carefully insert a flathead screwdriver or a similar thin, flat tool into this seam. Gently twist or pry to separate the two halves of the fob. Take your time to avoid damaging the plastic casing.
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Access the Battery: Once the fob is open, you’ll see the round, flat key fob battery. It might be positioned on top of or underneath the transmitter circuit board, depending on how the fob opened.
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Replace the Old Battery: Gently release the old 2032 battery. You might be able to pry it out with your fingertip or the flathead screwdriver if needed. Take the new 2032 battery and place it into the compartment, ensuring the correct side (usually marked with a “+” sign) is facing upwards. Minimize touching the flat surfaces of the new battery with your fingers to avoid transferring oils, which can reduce battery life.
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Reassemble the Key Fob: Carefully snap the two halves of the Subaru 2021 key fob casing back together. They should click securely into place. Finally, slide the metal emergency key back into its slot until it locks.
Alt Text: Opening a bulging rectangular Subaru 2021 key fob to access the battery compartment for replacement.
Replacing the Battery in a Teardrop Shape Subaru Key Fob (2021 Models)
While less common in 2021 models compared to the bulging rectangle, some Subaru 2021 vehicles might still use the teardrop-shaped key fob. This fob uses a 2025 battery. The battery replacement process is very similar to the rectangular fob:
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Open the Key Fob Casing: The teardrop fob doesn’t have a separate emergency key to remove. Locate the seam around the fob casing. Use a flathead screwdriver or similar tool to carefully pry open the two halves of the fob.
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Access and Replace the Battery: Once open, locate the flat, round 2025 battery. Remove the old battery and replace it with a new 2025 battery, ensuring correct polarity (+ side up).
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Reassemble the Key Fob: Press the two halves of the teardrop Subaru 2021 key fob firmly back together until they snap shut.
Alt Text: Teardrop shaped Subaru 2021 key fob being opened for battery replacement, showing the internal components.
Replacing the Battery in an Exposed Metal Key Subaru Key Fob (Older Subaru Models, Verify for 2021)
This older style of Subaru key fob, featuring an exposed metal key with buttons, is less likely to be standard for a 2021 Subaru, but it’s worth understanding in case your specific model or trim uses it. This fob uses a CR 1620 battery. The process is slightly different due to an inner casing:
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Open the Outer Casing: This step is similar to opening the bulging rectangle fob. You might find a small tab to press or simply need to pry the two halves of the outer casing apart using a flathead screwdriver.
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Open the Inner Casing: Inside the outer casing, you’ll find a second, smaller casing that houses the battery. This inner casing typically has small tabs that you need to press or squeeze to open it. Carefully examine the inner casing to locate these tabs and gently open it.
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Replace the Battery: With the inner casing open, you can access the CR 1620 battery. Remove the old battery and replace it with a new CR 1620 battery, again ensuring the correct side is facing up.
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Reassemble Both Casings: Close the inner casing first, making sure it snaps securely. Then, place the inner casing back into the outer casing and snap the outer casing closed as well.
Alt Text: Disassembled older style Subaru 2021 key fob with exposed metal key, highlighting the inner casing for CR 1620 battery access.
What If Replacing the Subaru 2021 Key Fob Battery Doesn’t Solve the Problem?
If you’ve replaced your Subaru 2021 Key Fob Battery and are still experiencing issues, the problem might be more complex. Here are a few possibilities:
- Key Fob Programming: Sometimes, after a battery change or for other reasons, your key fob might need to be reprogrammed to communicate with your Subaru.
- Key Fob Damage: The internal components of your key fob could be damaged. If you suspect physical damage or if battery replacement doesn’t work, the fob itself might need to be replaced.
- Vehicle Issues: In rare cases, issues with your Subaru’s receiver system could be the problem, although this is less likely than a key fob battery or fob issue.
For 2021 Subaru models, key fob programming is generally handled at the dealership for security reasons. If a new battery doesn’t fix the issue, it’s best to contact your local Subaru dealership. They can diagnose the problem, program your existing fob if needed, or provide a replacement Subaru 2021 key fob and program it for you.
While older Subaru models sometimes allowed for DIY key fob programming, this is less common and less recommended for newer vehicles like the 2021 models due to security complexities.
Rely on Your Subaru Dealership for Key Fob Expertise
While replacing your Subaru 2021 key fob battery is a simple DIY task, for more complex issues like programming or replacement, your Subaru dealership is the best resource. They have the expertise and equipment to ensure your key fob and vehicle systems work together seamlessly. Contact your local Subaru service center for assistance with any key fob issues beyond battery replacement, and keep your 2021 Subaru secure and convenient to use.
