Is your 2015 Subaru Outback key fob refusing to cooperate? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. A dead key fob battery is a common issue, but thankfully, replacing it is a straightforward task you can easily handle yourself. As your trusted auto repair experts at keyfobx.com, we’re here to guide you through each step of the 2015 Subaru Outback Key Fob Battery replacement process, ensuring you’re back on the road with a functional remote in no time.
While you can always schedule a service appointment with us to take care of this for you, tackling it yourself can save you time and money. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to confidently replace your 2015 Subaru Outback key fob battery, and even covers tips for older and newer Subaru models in case you’re helping out family or friends.
Identifying Your Subaru Key Fob Type
Subaru has utilized a few different key fob designs over the years. For a 2015 Subaru Outback, you’ll most likely encounter one of two main types: the bulging rectangle shape or the teardrop shape. Knowing which type you have is crucial because it dictates the battery you’ll need.
If you’re unsure, your owner’s manual is the best resource to confirm your key fob type. Once you’ve identified it, you can proceed with the corresponding battery replacement steps outlined below.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replace Your 2015 Subaru Outback Key Fob Battery
Let’s get down to business. Here’s how to replace the battery in your 2015 Subaru Outback key fob.
Replacing the Battery in a Bulging Rectangle Subaru Key Fob (Likely for 2015 Outback)
Battery Type Required: CR2032 Battery
This type of key fob is commonly used in 2015 Subaru Outback models and is easily identifiable by its rectangular shape with a slight bulge.
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Remove the Emergency Key: Locate the small silver tab on the back of your 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 the remote functions fail completely.
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Pry Open the Key Fob: Carefully inspect the seam running around the key fob. This is where you’ll need to gently pry it open. A flathead screwdriver or a thin pry tool can be helpful. Insert the tool into the seam and gently twist to separate the two halves of the fob casing. Be careful not to apply excessive force, as you could damage the plastic.
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Locate the Battery: Once open, you’ll see the internal components. The round, flat key fob battery (CR2032 for this type) will be visible, either on top of or beneath the transmitter circuit board, depending on how the fob opened.
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Replace the Old Battery: Carefully release the old battery. It might be held in place by small clips. Note the orientation of the battery – the positive (+) side should usually be facing upwards. Pop in 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, which can reduce battery life.
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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. Finally, slide the metal emergency key back into its slot until it clicks and locks.
Replacing the Battery in a Teardrop Shape Subaru Key Fob
Battery Type Required: CR2025 Battery
While less common for a 2015 Outback, some older models or different Subaru vehicles might use a teardrop-shaped key fob.
The process for replacing the battery in this fob is very similar to the rectangular fob. The main difference is that the teardrop fob does not have a removable emergency key. Therefore, you can skip step 1 from the previous instructions and proceed directly to prying open the fob casing. Remember to use a CR2025 battery for this teardrop style. The remaining steps (prying, battery replacement, and reassembly) are identical to those for the rectangular fob.
Replacing the Battery in an Older Subaru Key Fob with Exposed Metal Key and Buttons
Battery Type Required: CR1620 Battery
This is an older style of Subaru key fob where the metal key is always visible. The key difference here is that this fob has two casings. You first open the outer casing (similar to the rectangular fob), and then you’ll find a smaller, interior casing that houses the battery.
- Open the Exterior Casing: Follow step 2 described for the bulging rectangle fob to open the outer casing.
- Open the Interior Casing: Once the exterior casing is open, you’ll see a smaller interior casing. This inner casing usually has small tabs that you need to press to release and open it. Carefully examine the casing to locate these tabs and gently press them to separate the two halves.
- Replace the Battery: Inside the inner casing, you’ll find the battery, which is a CR1620 type for this older fob. Remove the old battery and insert the new CR1620 battery, ensuring correct polarity (positive side up).
- Reassemble: Close the interior casing, place it back inside the exterior casing, and snap everything back together securely.
What if a New Battery Doesn’t Solve the Problem?
If you’ve replaced your 2015 Subaru Outback key fob battery and it’s still not working, there might be another issue. In some cases, the key fob itself might be faulty or require reprogramming.
Key Fob Reprogramming and Replacement:
For newer Subaru models, especially those with the bulging rectangular fob, reprogramming often needs to be done at a dealership. If you suspect your key fob needs replacing or reprogramming, it’s best to contact a Subaru dealership like [Subaru North Orlando (example dealership from original article, replace with your dealership if applicable)] or your local Subaru service center.
While older Subaru key fobs can sometimes be programmed at home, the process can be complex and isn’t always successful. The original article provides steps for home programming, but for a 2015 Subaru Outback, and for guaranteed results, professional programming is recommended.
Rely on Keyfobx.com for Your Subaru Key Fob Needs
At keyfobx.com, we are your go-to experts for all things key fobs and auto electronics. Whether you need assistance with your 2015 Subaru Outback key fob battery replacement, require a new key fob, or have any other car key related questions, we’re here to help.
While this guide empowers you to handle a battery replacement yourself, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional service center for more complex issues. Keeping your key fob in top working order is essential for vehicle access and security, and we’re dedicated to providing you with the knowledge and services you need.
