Is your 2021 Subaru 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 a battery change. Replacing the battery in your Subaru key fob is a straightforward task you can easily do yourself, saving both time and money. This guide, brought to you by the experts at keyfobprog.com, will walk you through each step to ensure a smooth and successful Subaru Key Fob Battery Replacement 2021.
Whether you drive a Forester, Outback, Crosstrek, or any other 2021 Subaru model, understanding your key fob is the first step. Subaru utilizes a few different key fob designs, but for 2021 models, you’ll most likely encounter the bulging rectangle shape. Don’t fret if yours looks slightly different; the battery replacement process is quite similar across various Subaru key fob types.
Let’s dive into how to replace your Subaru key fob battery and get you back on the road with a fully functional remote.
Step-by-Step Guide to Subaru Key Fob Battery Replacement (Bulging Rectangle Shape – 2021 Models)
For most 2021 Subaru vehicles, the key fob will have a bulging rectangular shape. This type of fob is user-friendly and designed for easy battery access. You’ll need a CR2032 battery, which is widely available at most drugstores, supermarkets, and online retailers.
What you’ll need:
- A new CR2032 battery
- A small flathead screwdriver (optional, but helpful)
Steps:
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Remove the Emergency Key: Locate the small silver tab on the back of your Subaru key fob. Press and hold this tab to release and remove the metal emergency key. This key is a backup to manually unlock your car door if needed.
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Pry Open the Key Fob: Carefully examine the seam running around the edge of your key fob. This is where you’ll gently pry it open. You can use your fingernail or insert a small flathead screwdriver into the seam for leverage. Twist gently to separate the two halves of the fob. Be patient and avoid using excessive force to prevent damage to the casing.
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Locate the Battery: Once the fob is open, you’ll see the internal components. The flat, round CR2032 battery will be visible. It might be positioned on either side of the transmitter circuit board depending on how the fob opened.
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Replace the Old Battery: Gently release the old battery from its housing. You might be able to pry it out with your fingernail or the tip of the screwdriver. Take note of the battery’s orientation – which side is facing up – before removing it. Install the new CR2032 battery, ensuring the correct side (usually the positive side marked with a “+”) is facing upward, matching the orientation of the old battery. 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 align the two halves of the key fob and snap them back together. You should hear a click as they securely join.
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Re-insert the Emergency Key: Slide the metal emergency key back into its slot until it clicks into place.
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Test Your Key Fob: Press the buttons on your key fob to test if it’s working. Lock and unlock your doors, and try the panic button to ensure everything is functioning correctly.
Alt text: Subaru bulging rectangle key fob with metal emergency key removed, preparing for battery replacement.
Alternative Subaru Key Fob Types and Batteries
While the bulging rectangle fob is common for 2021 Subarus, it’s helpful to be aware of other potential key fob designs and their corresponding batteries. If your 2021 Subaru happens to use a different style, here’s a quick guide:
Teardrop Shape Key Fob
Battery Type: CR2025
This older, teardrop-shaped Subaru key fob is less common in 2021 models but could still be in use depending on the specific vehicle and trim. The battery replacement process is very similar to the bulging rectangle fob. The main difference is that this fob typically uses a CR2025 battery, which is slightly thinner than the CR2032. It also lacks a separate emergency key release; you’ll simply pry the fob open directly. Steps 2-7 from the bulging rectangle guide apply here, just ensuring you use a CR2025 battery.
Alt text: Opened teardrop-shaped Subaru key fob revealing the CR2025 battery for replacement.
Exposed Metal Key with Buttons Key Fob
Battery Type: CR1620
This is the oldest style of electronic Subaru key fob, featuring the metal key visible at all times. The key difference with this fob is the presence of a second, smaller casing inside the main fob casing. You’ll need to open both casings to access the battery.
- Open the Exterior Casing: This process is similar to the bulging rectangle fob. Pry open the main casing using the seam.
- Open the Interior Casing: Once the exterior casing is open, you’ll see a smaller interior casing. Look for small tabs on this casing. Press these tabs to release and open the interior casing.
- Replace the Battery: Inside the interior casing, you’ll find a CR1620 battery. Replace it with a new CR1620, ensuring correct polarity.
- Reassemble: Close the interior casing, place it back inside the exterior casing, and snap everything securely back together.
Alt text: Older style Subaru key fob with exposed metal key, requiring a CR1620 battery replacement.
What if Battery Replacement Doesn’t Solve the Issue?
In the vast majority of cases, replacing the battery will resolve key fob issues like reduced range or unresponsiveness. However, if you’ve replaced the battery and your 2021 subaru key fob battery replacement hasn’t fixed the problem, it’s possible there might be a different issue.
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Key Fob Programming: Sometimes, a key fob might lose its programming, especially in newer vehicles with more complex systems. While less common after just a battery change, it’s a possibility. The original article includes steps on reprogramming older fobs, but for 2021 models and newer, programming often requires dealership equipment.
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Key Fob Damage: If your key fob has been dropped, exposed to moisture, or otherwise damaged, internal components might be faulty.
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Vehicle Issues: In rare cases, the problem might not be the key fob itself, but an issue with your Subaru’s receiver or vehicle battery.
For 2021 Subaru models, if a new battery doesn’t solve the problem, it’s best to contact a certified Subaru dealership. They have the expertise and equipment to diagnose and resolve more complex key fob and vehicle-related issues.
Conclusion
Replacing your subaru key fob battery 2021 is usually a quick, simple, and cost-effective fix for common key fob problems. By following these steps, you can confidently change your battery at home and restore your key fob’s functionality. Remember to identify your key fob type and use the correct replacement battery (CR2032, CR2025, or CR1620). If you encounter any persistent issues, don’t hesitate to seek professional help from your local Subaru dealer.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always refer to your Subaru owner’s manual for specific instructions and safety information.
