Is your 2020 Subaru Forester key fob not working as reliably as it used to? Before you worry about expensive replacements or dealership visits, the solution might be as simple as changing the battery. A dead or dying key fob battery is a common issue, and thankfully, replacing it in your Subaru Forester key fob is a straightforward process you can easily do yourself.
At keyfobprog.com, we understand the frustration of key fob issues. That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive guide to walk you through replacing the battery in your 2020 Subaru Forester key fob. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or a first-time car owner, our step-by-step instructions will make this task quick and hassle-free.
This guide will cover the tools you’ll need, the type of battery required for your 2020 Subaru Forester key fob, and detailed instructions for each key fob style. Let’s get started and get your key fob working like new again!
Identifying Your Subaru Forester Key Fob Type
Subaru has used a few different key fob designs over the years. For the 2020 Subaru Forester, you’ll most likely have one of two main types. Knowing which type you have is the first step to a successful battery replacement.
1. Bulging Rectangle Shape Key Fob:
This is a common style for newer Subaru vehicles, including the 2020 Forester. It’s characterized by its rectangular shape with a slight bulge and typically has a metal emergency key that slides out.
2. Teardrop Shape Key Fob:
While less common for the 2020 Forester, some models might still use the older teardrop-shaped fob. This fob is rounded and doesn’t have a separate, removable emergency key.
If you are unsure which key fob you have, your Subaru Forester owner’s manual is the best resource for confirmation. Once you’ve identified your key fob type, you can proceed with the correct battery replacement steps.
Tools and Battery You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather these simple tools and the correct replacement battery:
- Small Flathead Screwdriver: This will be helpful for gently prying open the key fob casing. A small eyeglass repair screwdriver works perfectly.
- CR2032 Battery: For the bulging rectangle shaped key fob (most likely for a 2020 Subaru Forester), you will need a CR2032 battery. This is a common 3V lithium coin cell battery, readily available at most drugstores, supermarkets, and online retailers.
- Soft Cloth (Optional): To protect the key fob surface from scratches while prying it open.
It’s always a good idea to have a new battery on hand before you start the replacement process, so you can quickly get your key fob back in working order.
Step-by-Step Guide: Replacing the 2020 Subaru Forester Key Fob Battery (Bulging Rectangle Shape)
If your 2020 Subaru Forester uses the bulging rectangle key fob, follow these steps:
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Remove the Emergency Key: Locate the small silver tab or button on the back of your key fob. Press and hold this tab to release the metal emergency key. Slide the key out and set it aside.
Alt text: Removing the emergency key from a bulging rectangular Subaru key fob by pressing the silver release tab on the back.
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Pry Open the Key Fob: Carefully inspect the seam running around the edge of the key fob. This is where you’ll need to gently pry it open. Insert the tip of your flathead screwdriver into this seam. If you’re concerned about scratches, wrap the screwdriver tip with a soft cloth. Gently twist the screwdriver to start separating the two halves of the fob. Work your way around the seam, gently prying until the fob casing pops open.
Alt text: Using a flathead screwdriver to carefully pry open the seam of a Subaru key fob casing to access the battery compartment.
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Locate the Battery: Once open, you’ll see the inside components of the key fob. The flat, round CR2032 battery will be visible, either sitting on top of or underneath the transmitter circuit board depending on the fob’s internal design.
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Remove and Replace the Battery: Gently note the orientation of the old battery (usually the positive (+) side facing up). Use your fingertip or the very tip of the screwdriver to carefully nudge the old battery out of its holder. Avoid touching the new battery with your bare fingers as much as possible; oils from your skin can reduce battery life. Place the new CR2032 battery into the battery compartment, ensuring the correct side (positive side) is facing upwards, matching the orientation of the old battery.
Alt text: Replacing the old CR2032 battery with a new one in a Subaru key fob, ensuring correct polarity and minimizing skin contact.
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Reassemble the Key Fob: Carefully snap the two halves of the key fob casing back together. Press firmly until you hear or feel them click securely into place.
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Re-insert the Emergency Key: Slide the metal emergency key back into its slot until it clicks and locks in place.
Step-by-Step Guide: Replacing the Subaru Forester Key Fob Battery (Teardrop Shape)
If your 2020 Subaru Forester happens to use the teardrop-shaped key fob, the process is very similar, with a slight variation:
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Skip Emergency Key Removal: The teardrop fob does not have a removable emergency key, so skip this step.
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Pry Open the Key Fob: Follow the same procedure as step 2 above for the bulging rectangle fob. Carefully use the flathead screwdriver to pry open the teardrop fob casing along its seam.
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Locate and Replace Battery: The internal layout will be slightly different, but locate the battery compartment and the CR2025 battery. Note the battery orientation and replace it with a new CR2025 battery, ensuring correct polarity.
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Reassemble the Key Fob: Snap the two halves of the teardrop fob casing back together securely.
Testing Your Subaru Forester Key Fob
After reassembling your key fob, test it immediately to ensure the battery replacement was successful. Press the lock, unlock, and panic buttons to confirm they are working correctly. Your 2020 Subaru Forester key fob should now be functioning optimally with its fresh new battery!
What If Replacing the Battery Doesn’t Work?
In the rare case that replacing the battery doesn’t solve your key fob issues, there might be other problems. Here are a few possibilities:
- Key Fob Programming: Sometimes, after a battery change, the key fob might need to be reprogrammed to your vehicle. While less common for simple battery changes, it can occur. Refer to your owner’s manual for potential reprogramming instructions, or contact your local Subaru dealer.
- Key Fob Damage: If your key fob has been dropped, gotten wet, or experienced other damage, internal components could be faulty. In this case, you might need a key fob replacement.
- Vehicle Issues: In very rare instances, the problem might not be the key fob itself, but an issue with your Subaru Forester’s receiver system.
If you suspect any of these more complex issues, it’s best to consult with a qualified Subaru technician.
Subaru Service and Support
While replacing your 2020 Subaru Forester key fob battery is a simple DIY task, Subaru dealerships are always available to assist with any car maintenance or repair needs. If you prefer professional service or encounter any key fob issues beyond battery replacement, don’t hesitate to schedule service with your local Subaru dealer. They can diagnose any problems, program key fobs, and ensure your Subaru Forester is running smoothly.
We hope this guide has helped you confidently replace your 2020 Subaru Forester key fob battery and restored its functionality! Visit keyfobprog.com for more helpful guides and information on key fobs and automotive care.
