# 🔋 How To Change The Battery In A Subaru Key Fob – Complete Guide
Is your Subaru key fob starting to act up? Maybe it only works when you’re standing close to the car, or the buttons feel unresponsive. In most cases, you don’t need a new key – you just need a new **battery**.
This complete guide will walk you through **how to change the battery in a Subaru key fob**, step by step. Whether you drive an Outback, Forester, Crosstrek, Impreza, WRX, Legacy, or Ascent, you’ll find clear instructions, tips, and troubleshooting help below.
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## 📌 Why Your Subaru Key Fob Battery Needs Replacing
Before we dive into the steps, it helps to know the signs of a weak or dead key fob battery:
– 🔻 Reduced range – You need to be closer to the car for the buttons to work.
– 🔻 Intermittent operation – Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t.
– 🔻 No response – Doors won’t lock/unlock and the panic button doesn’t work.
– 🔻 Dashboard warning – Some newer Subarus will show a “Key Fob Battery Low” message.
– 🔻 Push-button start issues – The car may not recognize the key unless it’s very close to the start button.
If any of these sound familiar, it’s time to change the battery. The good news: it’s **simple, quick, and inexpensive**.
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## 🧰 What You’ll Need (Tools & Materials)
You don’t need any special equipment. Most Subaru key fob batteries can be changed with:
**Tools:**
– A small flathead screwdriver
– OR a plastic pry tool (preferred to avoid scratches)
**Battery (common types used in Subaru key fobs):**
– CR2032 (most common)
– CR2025 (used in some older models)
> 💡 Tip: Check your owner’s manual or open the key fob first to confirm the exact battery type before buying replacements.
**Optional:**
– A soft cloth or towel (to protect surfaces and your key fob)
– A small tray or dish (to hold the battery and key parts)
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## 🔍 Step 1: Identify Your Subaru Key Fob Type
Subaru has used a few different key fob designs over the years. The basic process is similar, but the way you open them can vary slightly.
Here are the most common types:
### 1️⃣ Standard Remote Key Fob (with key ring & 3–4 buttons)
– Buttons: Lock, Unlock, Panic, sometimes Trunk
– Used on many **Forester, Outback, Legacy, Impreza, Crosstrek, WRX** models.
– Usually contains a **CR2032** battery.
### 2️⃣ Smart Key / Proximity Key (Keyless Access & Push-Button Start)
– No visible metal key blade sticking out (often tucked inside as an emergency key).
– Used on newer **Outback, Ascent, Forester, Crosstrek, Legacy**.
– Usually contains **CR2032** or **CR2025**.
### 3️⃣ Integrated Flip Key (older models)
– Metal key flips out from the plastic fob.
– Fewer newer Subarus use this, but some older models do.
– Typically uses **CR1620** or similar, but check the inside once opened.
Once you know which type you have, you can follow the appropriate steps below. Most recent Subaru vehicles will follow the **Standard Remote Key Fob** or **Smart Key** instructions.
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## 🔧 Step 2: Open the Subaru Key Fob
### A. Opening a Standard Remote Key Fob
1. **Locate the seam**
– Look along the edge of the key fob; you’ll see a thin line where the two halves meet.
2. **Find the small notch or slot**
– On one side, there’s usually a small indentation designed for a screwdriver or pry tool.
3. **Insert your tool**
– Use a **small flathead screwdriver** or plastic pry tool.
– Place it gently into the notch.
4. **Twist gently to separate**
– Turn the tool slightly like you’re turning a key.
– The key fob halves will begin to pop apart.
– Work your way around the edge if needed, gently prying until it fully opens.
> ⚠️ Caution: Don’t force it. Excessive prying can crack the plastic. If it’s tight, move slowly along the seam, opening it little by little.
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### B. Opening a Smart Key / Proximity Fob
1. **Remove the emergency key**
– Look for a **small button or slider** on the back/side of the key fob.
– Slide or press it while **pulling the metal key** out from the fob.
2. **Use the key slot to open the fob**
– Once the emergency key is removed, you’ll often see a small gap or slot where the key came from.
– Insert the flathead screwdriver or the **metal emergency key itself** into this gap.
3. **Twist to separate the case**
– Gently twist to pop open the case.
– Work your way around the fob if necessary until the two halves separate.
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### C. Opening an Integrated Flip Key (if applicable)
1. **Open the key blade**
– Flip out the metal key so it’s extended.
2. **Locate screws or seam**
– Some designs have a small screw holding the halves together.
– Others use a snap-together seam like the standard remote.
3. **Remove screw (if present)**
– Use a precision Phillips screwdriver to remove it.
4. **Pry gently along the edge**
– Use a small flathead screwdriver to separate the two halves.
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## 🔋 Step 3: Remove the Old Battery
Once the key fob is open, you’ll see a small **circular coin battery** seated inside.
1. **Note the battery orientation**
– Pay close attention to which side is facing up.
– Usually, the **“+” (positive) side faces up** and is visible.
– Remember this, or take a quick photo with your phone.
2. **Gently lift the battery out**
– Use your fingernail or a small flathead screwdriver.
– Pry from the side where there’s a small lip or opening.
– Avoid bending any metal contacts.
3. **Check the battery code**
– Look for the model number (e.g., **CR2032, CR2025**).
– Use this exact type for your replacement.
> ⚠️ Important: Don’t use excessive force when removing the battery. The metal prongs holding it in place are delicate and crucial for connection.
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## 🔄 Step 4: Insert the New Battery
1. **Match the battery type**
– Use a high-quality replacement (Duracell, Energizer, Panasonic, etc.).
– Ensure the voltage (3V) and code (CR20xx) match your old battery.
2. **Install with correct polarity**
– Align the new battery so that the **“+” side faces the same way** as the old one.
– Usually, **“+” faces up**, but rely on what you observed earlier or any markings in the case.
3. **Slide and press into place**
– Insert one edge of the battery under the retaining clip or tab.
– Press down gently until it **clicks** or sits flat in the holder.
> 💡 Tip: Avoid touching the battery surfaces with bare fingers. Skin oils can sometimes interfere with contact. If you do, wipe it gently with a clean, dry cloth.
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## 🧩 Step 5: Reassemble the Key Fob
1. **Align the two halves**
– Ensure all internal components are seated properly.
– Line up the front and back of the case carefully.
2. **Press the case together**
– Squeeze the edges with your fingers until you hear or feel **distinct clicks**.
– Work around all sides to make sure it’s fully sealed.
3. **Reinsert the emergency key (smart key only)**
– Slide the metal key back into its slot until it locks into place.
4. **If there was a screw, reinstall it**
– Tighten gently – do not over-tighten.
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## ✅ Step 6: Test Your Subaru Key Fob
Before you put everything away, **test the fob** to be sure the new battery is working properly.
1. **Test the buttons**
– Try **Lock** and **Unlock** from a normal distance (e.g., 10–20 feet).
– Try the **Panic** button briefly to confirm function.
2. **If you have push-button start**
– Sit in the driver’s seat with the fob.
– Press the **brake** and hit the **Start/Stop** button.
– The engine should start normally, and you shouldn’t see any “No Key” error.
If the fob works reliably and the range feels normal, your battery replacement was successful. 🎉
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## 🧠 Troubleshooting: If Your Subaru Key Fob Still Doesn’t Work
If the key fob isn’t working properly after the battery change, consider the following:
### 1️⃣ Double-check the battery orientation
– Make sure the **positive (+) side** is facing the correct way.
– Remove and reinstall the battery carefully, ensuring it sits flat and secure.
### 2️⃣ Confirm you used the right battery type
– Verify the code (CR2032 vs CR2025, etc.).
– If the wrong thickness is used, contact might be inconsistent.
### 3️⃣ Inspect the metal contacts
– Look for **bent, broken, or dirty** contacts.
– Gently adjust them back into position if they’re not touching the battery.
– Wipe away any obvious dust with a soft, dry cloth.
### 4️⃣ Try a different new battery
– Occasionally, a new battery can be defective.
– Test with another fresh, brand-name battery.
### 5️⃣ Check for physical damage
– If your fob has been dropped, crushed, or exposed to water, internal damage may be the issue.
– Look for corrosion (white/green residue) or broken components.
### 6️⃣ Reprogramming or dealer visit
– Rarely, your key fob might need to be **reprogrammed** or replaced.
– Visit your local Subaru dealership or a qualified locksmith if:
– The fob still doesn’t work after verified good battery and proper installation.
– You have multiple fobs and only one is failing.
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## 🔄 How Often Should You Replace a Subaru Key Fob Battery?
Most key fob batteries last between **2–4 years**, depending on usage and conditions:
– 🔁 Frequent lock/unlock use → shorter lifespan
– 🌡️ Extreme hot or cold climates → can reduce battery life
– 📶 Storing key too close to the car (constant communication) → can drain faster
A good practice is to **replace the battery proactively every 2–3 years**, especially if:
– You rely on your Subaru daily
– You use push-button start
– You plan a long trip and don’t want surprises
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## 🛡️ Safety Tips When Replacing Key Fob Batteries
– 🚸 **Keep batteries away from children & pets**
Button batteries can be very dangerous if swallowed.
– 🗑️ **Dispose of old batteries properly**
Take used batteries to a recycling center or collection point – don’t throw them in regular trash.
– ⚡ **Avoid short-circuiting**
Don’t stack loose batteries or store them with metal objects (like coins or keys) in your pocket.
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## 💲 How Much Does It Cost to Change a Subaru Key Fob Battery?
Changing the battery yourself is extremely cost-effective:
– Replacement coin battery: **$2–$8** (depending on brand/pack size)
– DIY labor: **Free**
– Time required: **5–10 minutes**
If you choose to have it done at a dealer or shop:
– Some dealerships will replace the battery for **free** or a small charge as a courtesy.
– Others may charge **$10–$30**, including the cost of the battery and labor.
Doing it yourself is straightforward and saves both time and money.
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## 📘 Model-Specific Notes (Common Subaru Models)
While the core steps are the same, here’s a quick overview by model:
– **Subaru Outback (2010–present)**
– Most use a slim smart key or standard remote with a **CR2032**.
– **Subaru Forester (2014–present)**
– Keyless Access models use a smart key (CR2032).
– Others use standard remote fobs (also usually CR2032).
– **Subaru Crosstrek (2013–present)**
– Mix of standard and smart keys, mostly **CR2032**.
– **Subaru Impreza**
– Older models: standard fobs with **CR2025** or **CR2032**.
– Newer models: smart keys (CR2032).
– **Subaru Legacy**
– Similar pattern to Outback – mostly **CR2032** in recent years.
– **Subaru WRX / WRX STI**
– Some use flip keys, some standard remotes; battery types can vary (CR1620, CR2025, CR2032).
Always confirm by **checking your current battery** or referring to your **owner’s manual**.
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## 🧾 Quick Reference: Subaru Key Fob Battery Replacement Steps
For a fast recap:
1. **Gather tools & battery**
– Small flathead screwdriver / pry tool
– Correct coin battery (CR2032, CR2025, etc.)
2. **Open the fob**
– Standard fob: pry at the side notch along the seam.
– Smart key: remove emergency key, then use the key slot to open the case.
3. **Remove old battery**
– Note orientation.
– Gently pry out the old battery.
4. **Install new battery**
– Insert with correct “+” side facing as before.
– Ensure it sits flat and snug.
5. **Reassemble fob**
– Snap the halves together.
– Reinsert emergency key if applicable.
6. **Test functions**
– Lock/Unlock, Panic, and Push-Button Start (if equipped).
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## 🚗 Keep Your Subaru Ready with a Fresh Key Fob Battery
A failing key fob battery is a small problem that can quickly become a big inconvenience—especially if you’re in a hurry or far from home. Fortunately, **replacing the battery in your Subaru key fob is easy, fast, and inexpensive**, and it’s something you can confidently do yourself.
By following the detailed steps in this guide, you can:
– Restore full range and reliability
– Avoid unexpected “No Key Detected” warnings
– Save money on dealership service
Keep a **spare battery in your glovebox** or at home, and you’ll always be ready when your key fob starts to show signs of weakening.
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If you maintain your Subaru and its key fobs regularly, you’ll enjoy smoother, worry-free driving every day.
