It’s a common frustration for Subaru owners: a seemingly short lifespan for their key fob batteries. While it can feel inconvenient, understanding the reasons behind this can help you manage and even extend your Subaru Battery Key Fob life. Several factors contribute to how quickly your key fob battery drains, and here are some key culprits:
One significant factor is the quality control of the CR2032 coin battery itself. Not all batteries are created equal. Even from reputable brands, occasional faulty batteries can slip through quality checks (https://www.ascentforums.com/threads/key-fob-battery-life.20499/). If you’re experiencing frequent battery changes, it might be worthwhile to test new batteries with a battery tester before installing them in your fob. It’s also crucial to familiarize yourself with your emergency key and ensure it mechanically unlocks your door (https://www.ascentforums.com/threads/manual-key-will-not-mechanically-unlock-door.20174/#post-230721). Knowing how to start your Subaru with a “dead” fob is also a valuable piece of knowledge for unexpected situations. When purchasing replacement batteries, opting for well-known brands like Energizer or Duracell generally ensures reasonable quality and consistency. For those seeking Panasonic batteries, be cautious with online purchases to ensure you are getting genuine products.
Another common cause, often related to user behavior, is excessive button pressing. Do you find yourself repeatedly hitting the lock or unlock buttons as you approach or leave your Subaru? This habit significantly increases battery drain. A simple solution is to utilize your Subaru’s touch-enabled locking and proximity unlocking features. For those moments of doubt after walking away from your car, resist the urge to repeatedly press the fob buttons; instead, use the MySubaru/Starlink app to confirm your vehicle’s lock status.
Finally, anecdotal evidence across various car brands suggests that keeping your subaru key fob too close to your vehicle can lead to battery drain in both the fob and the car. To prevent this, store your fob away from your Subaru when you’re at home. Alternatively, consider using a Faraday cage or valet box to store your fob. These boxes block signals and prevent communication between the fob and the vehicle, thus minimizing battery drain.
By understanding these factors, you can take proactive steps to maximize your subaru key fob battery life and avoid unexpected surprises.
