# 🔋 How To Change The Battery In A Subaru Key Fob – Complete Guide
If your Subaru key fob has started acting up—slow to respond, only working up close, or not unlocking the doors at all—there’s a good chance the battery is dying. The good news? You don’t need to visit a dealership or pay a technician. You can replace the battery yourself in just a few minutes.
In this complete guide, you’ll learn:
– ✅ The signs your Subaru key fob battery is low
– ✅ Which battery type your Subaru key fob uses
– ✅ Step-by-step instructions for different Subaru key fob styles
– ✅ Common mistakes to avoid
– ✅ What to do if your key fob still doesn’t work afterward
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## 🧠 Why Your Subaru Key Fob Battery Matters
Your Subaru key fob is more than just a remote—it’s the security and convenience hub for your vehicle. Depending on your model, it may handle:
– 🚪 Locking/unlocking doors
– 🔑 Keyless entry and push-button start
– 🚗 Remote start (on equipped models)
– 🔔 Panic alarm
– 🚙 Opening the trunk or rear hatch
When the key fob battery is weak or dead, these features may stop working reliably, which can leave you stranded or locked out.
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## ⚠️ Common Signs Your Subaru Key Fob Battery Is Dying
Look for these symptoms:
– 🔹 You have to be very close to the car for the fob to work
– 🔹 You need to press buttons multiple times
– 🔹 Some functions work, others don’t (e.g., lock works, trunk doesn’t)
– 🔹 An alert on your dash like “Key Battery Low” or “Replace Key Battery”
– 🔹 Push-button start takes longer to recognize the key
If you notice any of these, it’s time to replace the battery.
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## 🔍 Step 1: Identify Your Subaru Key Fob Type
Different Subaru models and years use slightly different key fob designs, but most fall into one of these categories:
1. **Standard Remote Key Fob (Non–Push Button Start)**
– Has physical key blade
– Separate metal key that folds or pulls out
– Lock, unlock, trunk, alarm buttons
2. **Smart Key / Proximity Fob (Push-Button Start)**
– No visible metal key for everyday use (hidden inside)
– Used on vehicles with a START/STOP button
– Can stay in your pocket or bag
3. **Older “Classic” Remote Key Fob**
– More rectangular or bulky
– Often found on early 2000s models
If you’re unsure, compare your fob to images in your owner’s manual or search your model/year alongside “Subaru key fob” to visually match it.
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## 🔋 Step 2: Find the Right Battery Type
Most modern Subaru key fobs use **coin-style lithium batteries**. The most common types are:
– **CR2032** – the most frequently used
– **CR2025** – slightly thinner version used in some models
– **CR1620** – used in certain older or smaller fobs
You’ll usually find the battery type:
– Printed on the **back cover** of the key fob (small lettering)
– Inside the key fob once you open it
– In your **Subaru owner’s manual** under “Key/Remote Battery Replacement”
> 💡 **Tip:** Always check the old battery for a model number (e.g., CR2032) before buying a replacement.
### Where to Buy Replacement Batteries
You can easily find Subaru-compatible fob batteries at:
– Automotive stores (AutoZone, O’Reilly, NAPA)
– Big-box retailers (Walmart, Target)
– Hardware stores
– Online (Amazon, eBay, battery specialty sites)
Choose **a quality brand** like Panasonic, Energizer, Sony, or Duracell for longer life and reliability.
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## 🧰 Step 3: Tools You’ll Need
You don’t need a full toolbox—just a few simple items:
– 🪛 Small **flathead screwdriver** or plastic pry tool
– 🪙 Coin (like a nickel or quarter) for certain fobs
– 🧤 Optional: Thin gloves if you want to avoid touching the battery
– 🧼 Soft cloth to work on (prevents scratches)
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## 🔧 Step-by-Step: How To Change the Battery in a Subaru Key Fob
Below are general, model-agnostic instructions. Subaru designs vary slightly, but the process is nearly identical for most fobs.
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### 🔑 A. Changing the Battery in a Subaru Smart Key (Push-Button Start)
This is the most common key fob style on newer Subaru models like:
– Outback
– Forester
– Crosstrek
– Ascent
– Legacy
– Impreza
#### 1. Remove the Mechanical Key
1. Locate the **small release button** on the back or side of the key fob.
2. Press or slide the button.
3. Pull out the **hidden mechanical key** from the end of the fob.
> 🔎 This metal key is used for manual door unlocking if your battery is dead—good to know in an emergency.
#### 2. Open the Key Fob Case
1. With the mechanical key removed, look for a **small slot** or gap in the fob where the key was.
2. Insert the **flathead screwdriver or the metal key tip** into this slot.
3. Gently twist to pry the two halves of the key fob apart.
4. Work your way around the case if necessary, being careful not to crack the plastic.
> ⚠️ Be gentle. You’re separating clips, not forcing it open.
#### 3. Locate and Remove the Old Battery
1. Once open, you’ll see a **round coin battery** seated in a small holder.
2. Note the **orientation of the battery**: typically, the **“+” (positive) side faces up**.
3. Use your fingernail or a small flat tool to carefully pry the battery out.
> ❗ Avoid using excessive force or scratching the circuit board.
#### 4. Insert the New Battery
1. Take your new battery (e.g., CR2032).
2. Make sure you match the **same orientation** as the old one (usually **“+” side up**).
3. Press the battery gently into place until it sits flat and secure.
> 💡 Do your best not to touch the battery face with bare fingers. Skin oils can slightly reduce contact quality. If you do, gently wipe it with a dry cloth.
#### 5. Reassemble the Key Fob
1. Align the two halves of the key fob case.
2. Press them together firmly until you hear/feel them **snap** into place.
3. Slide or click the **mechanical key** back into its slot.
#### 6. Test the Key Fob
Before you walk away:
– Press **lock** and **unlock** buttons a few times.
– Stand a short distance from your Subaru and confirm:
– 🚪 Doors lock/unlock
– 🔔 Panic alarm activates (if available)
– 🚗 Push-button start recognizes the key (inside the vehicle)
If everything works, you’re done!
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### 🗝️ B. Changing the Battery in a Standard Subaru Remote Key Fob (Non–Push Button Start)
For models with a traditional ignition key plus a remote fob:
#### 1. Find the Seam on the Fob
1. Examine the fob’s outer edge to find the **seam line** where the two halves meet.
2. Look for a **small notch** or recess along that seam.
#### 2. Open the Fob
1. Insert a small **flathead screwdriver** or a **coin** into the notch.
2. Gently twist to start separating the two halves.
3. Work your way around until the fob is completely open.
#### 3. Remove and Replace the Battery
1. Identify the coin battery (likely CR2032 or CR2025).
2. Note the **“+” side orientation** before removal.
3. Gently pry the old battery out.
4. Insert the new battery **in the same orientation**, pressing it flat into place.
#### 4. Snap It Back Together and Test
1. Press the two halves together until they click securely.
2. Test all functions:
– Lock
– Unlock
– Trunk (if available)
– Panic
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### 🧓 C. Changing the Battery in Older Subaru Key Fobs
Some older Subaru models use bulkier or simpler remotes. The process is similar:
1. Remove any screws (if present) on the back of the fob.
2. Gently pry the case apart.
3. Note battery type and orientation.
4. Replace with the correct new battery.
5. Reassemble and test.
> 📝 If your older Subaru remote looks very different, check your **owner’s manual** or search your model/year online for a visual match.
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## 🧯 Step 4: Troubleshooting – If Your Subaru Key Fob Still Doesn’t Work
After installing a new battery, everything should function normally. If not, go through this checklist:
### ✅ 1. Double-Check the Battery Orientation
– Confirm the **positive (+) side** is facing the correct direction.
– Review any diagram printed inside the fob or in the manual.
### ✅ 2. Make Sure the Battery Is Fully Seated
– The battery should be **flat, snug, and not loose** in its holder.
– If it sits at an angle, the contacts may not touch properly.
### ✅ 3. Confirm You Used the Correct Battery Type
– Your fob may require **CR2032 vs CR2025 vs CR1620**, etc.
– A mismatched thickness or size can cause poor contact.
### ✅ 4. Try a Second New Battery
– Very rarely, batteries are defective out of the package.
– Swap in another fresh one from a known brand.
### ✅ 5. Look for Visible Damage
– Check for:
– Broken plastic clips
– Bent or corroded metal contacts
– Cracked circuit board
Water damage or physical abuse can kill a key fob even with a fresh battery.
### ✅ 6. Re-Sync or Reprogram (If Required)
Some Subaru models may lose synchronization if the battery is out for a long time. Steps can vary by model and year, but may include:
– 🔁 Pressing **lock/unlock** several times near the vehicle
– 🔁 Sitting in the car and using the **ignition or start button** in a certain sequence
> 📘 Exact re-sync or reprogram steps will be in your **owner’s manual**. If you no longer have it, most Subaru manuals are available online as PDFs via Subaru’s official site.
### ✅ 7. Visit a Subaru Dealer or Locksmith
If all else fails:
– A **Subaru dealership** can test your key fob and reprogram/replace it if necessary.
– A professional **automotive locksmith** may be able to repair or replace your fob at a lower cost than a dealer.
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## 🧼 Pro Tips To Extend Your Subaru Key Fob Battery Life
Want to avoid changing the battery too often? Follow these best practices:
– 🕒 Don’t store your key fob near your car when not in use
– Constant communication with the car can slowly drain the battery.
– 🌡️ Avoid extreme temperatures
– Don’t leave your keys in a very hot car or in freezing conditions for long periods.
– 💧 Keep the fob dry
– Water damage can ruin the electronics and drain the battery quickly.
– 📦 Use a key case
– A small protective cover or case can limit impacts, dust, and moisture.
Under normal use, a quality battery in a Subaru key fob should last **1–3 years**.
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## 🛡️ FAQ: Subaru Key Fob Battery Replacement
### Q1: Do I need to reprogram my key fob after changing the battery?
In most Subaru models, **no**—you simply replace the battery and it works.
Reprogramming might be needed if:
– The battery was removed for a long time
– Your specific model requires syncing after power loss (check manual)
### Q2: Can a dead key fob battery prevent my Subaru from starting?
Yes, on push-button start models, a dead fob battery can stop the car from recognizing the key. Many models have a **backup method**, such as:
– Holding the fob very close to the START/STOP button
– Placing the fob in a specific slot or area (check your manual)
### Q3: How much does it cost to replace a Subaru key fob battery?
If you do it yourself:
– A single battery typically costs **$2–$8**, depending on brand and where you buy it.
At a dealership or service center:
– Some may charge **$20–$40 or more** for parts and labor.
### Q4: How often should I change my Subaru key fob battery?
Most owners will need a new battery **every 1–3 years**, depending on:
– Driving frequency
– Climate
– Battery quality
If you start noticing reduced range or responsiveness, it’s time to replace it.
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## ✅ Summary: Subaru Key Fob Battery Replacement Checklist
Here’s a quick recap you can follow next time:
1. **Identify your key fob type** (smart key vs standard remote).
2. **Check your battery type** (commonly CR2032, CR2025, or CR1620).
3. **Gather basic tools** – flathead screwdriver or coin.
4. **Open the key fob** carefully at the seam or notch.
5. **Remove the old battery**, noting the orientation.
6. **Insert the new battery** with the correct “+” side direction.
7. **Snap the case back together** and reinstall the mechanical key (if applicable).
8. **Test all functions**: lock, unlock, trunk, panic, and start (if push-button).
With this guide, you can confidently change the battery in your Subaru key fob at home, save money, and keep your vehicle’s keyless features working smoothly.
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If you found this guide helpful, bookmark it for later and consider replacing the batteries in **all** your Subaru key fobs at the same time—so you’re never caught off guard by a dead remote.
