Are you experiencing issues with your Subaru Outback 2010 key fob? Does it seem like you have to press the buttons harder or stand closer to your vehicle for it to respond? More often than not, the culprit is a simple dead battery. Don’t worry, replacing the battery in your Subaru Outback 2010 key fob is a straightforward process you can easily handle yourself. This guide will walk you through each step, ensuring you can quickly regain full functionality of your key fob.
Identifying Your Subaru Outback Key Fob Type
Subaru has used a few different key fob designs over the years. While this guide focuses on the general process relevant for a 2010 Subaru Outback, knowing your specific key fob type is helpful to ensure you use the correct battery. Typically, for a 2010 Subaru Outback, you might encounter one of these common key fob styles:
- Bulging Rectangle Shape: This more modern design often requires a CR2032 battery and usually includes a removable metal emergency key.
- Teardrop Shape: An older style, the teardrop fob generally uses a CR2025 battery. It typically doesn’t have a separate removable emergency key.
- Exposed Metal Key with Buttons: This older style features the metal key visibly integrated with the button section and uses a CR1620 battery.
If you are uncertain about your key fob type or the correct battery, your Subaru Outback owner’s manual is the best resource. It will provide specific details for your vehicle’s key fob.
Step-by-Step Subaru Outback 2010 Key Fob Battery Replacement
Regardless of the exact shape, the core process for replacing the battery in your Subaru key fob remains quite similar. Here are detailed instructions for each common type:
Replacing the Battery in a Bulging Rectangle Subaru Key Fob (Likely Battery: CR2032)
- Remove the Emergency Key: Locate the small silver tab or button on the back of your rectangular key fob. Press and hold this tab to release and slide out the metal emergency key. Set the key aside.
- Open the Key Fob Casing: Carefully inspect the seam running around the edge of the key fob. You’ll need to gently pry open the two halves of the casing. A thin, flathead screwdriver or a plastic pry tool can be helpful. Insert the tool into the seam and gently twist or lever to separate the two parts. Be patient and avoid using excessive force to prevent damage to the plastic casing.
- Locate the Battery: Once the fob is open, you’ll see the internal components. The flat, round key fob battery will be visible, either on top of or underneath a small circuit board.
- Replace the Old Battery: Gently remove the old battery. You might need to use your fingertip or the tip of a tool to nudge it out of its holder. Take note of which side of the battery is facing upwards (usually the positive side with markings). Install the new CR2032 battery, ensuring the correct side is facing up. Minimize touching the flat surfaces of the new battery with your fingers to avoid transferring oils.
- 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.
- Re-insert the Emergency Key: Slide the metal emergency key back into its slot until it clicks and locks.
Replacing the Battery in a Teardrop Shape Subaru Key Fob (Likely Battery: CR2025)
The process for the teardrop-shaped Subaru key fob is almost identical to the rectangular fob, with one minor difference:
- Skip Emergency Key Removal: The teardrop fob typically does not have a removable emergency key, so you can skip the first step from the rectangular fob instructions.
- Follow Steps 2-6: Proceed with steps 2 through 6 from the “Bulging Rectangle Subaru Key Fob” instructions, remembering to use a CR2025 battery for replacement.
Replacing the Battery in an Exposed Metal Key Subaru Key Fob (Likely Battery: CR1620)
This older style key fob requires one extra step due to its double-casing design:
- Open the Outer Casing: Follow steps 2 and 3 from the “Bulging Rectangle Subaru Key Fob” instructions to open the main, outer casing of the fob.
- Open the Inner Casing: Once the outer casing is open, you’ll see a second, smaller inner casing containing the battery. This inner casing usually has small tabs or clips holding it together. Carefully locate these tabs and gently press or pry them to open the inner casing.
- Replace the Battery: Remove the old CR1620 battery and install the new one, ensuring correct polarity.
- Reassemble Both Casings: Close the inner casing first, making sure it clicks shut. Then, place the inner casing back inside the outer casing and snap the outer casing halves together.
Key Fob Battery Replacement Troubleshooting
After replacing the battery, your Subaru Outback 2010 key fob should ideally work immediately. However, if you encounter issues:
- Double-Check Battery Type and Polarity: Ensure you used the correct battery type (CR2032, CR2025, or CR1620) as specified for your key fob. Verify that you inserted the battery with the positive (+) side facing the correct direction.
- Clean Battery Contacts: If the fob still doesn’t work, gently clean the metal contacts inside the key fob where the battery connects. Use a cotton swab or a soft cloth to remove any potential dirt or corrosion that might be hindering the connection.
- Consider Key Fob Programming (Less Likely After Battery Change): In most cases, replacing the battery alone will not require reprogramming the key fob, especially for a 2010 Subaru Outback. However, if problems persist, and especially if you have a newer rectangular fob, it’s possible that the key fob might need reprogramming.
When Battery Replacement Isn’t Enough
If you’ve replaced the Subaru Outback 2010 Key Fob Battery and are still experiencing problems, there might be a more significant issue with the key fob itself. In such cases, you may need a key fob replacement or professional programming.
For newer Subaru models, key fob programming often requires specialized equipment and is best handled by a dealership. For older models, like the 2010 Outback, there might be DIY programming procedures available, but these can be complex and are not always successful.
If you’re unsure or prefer professional assistance, it’s always recommended to contact a certified Subaru service center like Subaru North Orlando. They can diagnose the issue, provide key fob replacement services, and handle any necessary programming. You can schedule a service appointment online or contact them directly for assistance.
Replacing your Subaru Outback 2010 key fob battery is usually a simple fix to restore your remote’s functionality. By following these steps, you can save time and money by handling this common maintenance task yourself.
