Experiencing issues with your 2017 Subaru Forester key fob can be frustrating. Often, the culprit is simply a dead battery. The good news is, replacing the battery in your Subaru Forester 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 access to your vehicle. While we at KeyFobX are always ready to assist, this DIY approach can save you time and effort.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your 2017 Subaru Forester Key Fob Battery (Bulging Rectangle Shape)
For the 2017 Subaru Forester, your key fob will likely be the bulging rectangle shape, which is common for many newer Subaru models. This type of fob is user-friendly when it comes to battery replacement. You’ll need a CR2032 battery for this procedure. Here’s how to do it:
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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 access method and needs to be removed to open the fob casing.
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Pry Open the Key Fob Casing: With the emergency key removed, you’ll see a seam running along the edge of the fob. Carefully insert a flathead screwdriver or a similar thin, flat tool into this seam. Gently twist or pry to separate the two halves of the key fob casing. Take your time to avoid damaging the plastic.
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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, either on top of or underneath the transmitter circuit board, depending on how the fob opens.
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Remove and Replace the Old Battery: Carefully release the old battery. It might be held in place by small clips. Note the orientation of the battery (which side is facing up) before removing it. Pop the new CR2032 battery into place, ensuring the correct side is facing upwards, just like the old one. Try to minimize touching the flat surfaces of the new battery with your fingers to avoid transferring oils.
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Reassemble the Key Fob: Carefully align the two halves of the key fob casing and press them back together until they snap securely into place. Ensure there are no gaps and the casing is firmly closed.
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Re-insert the Emergency Key: Slide the metal emergency key back into its slot until it clicks and locks in place.
Your 2017 Subaru Forester Key Fob Battery replacement is now complete! Test the fob to ensure it’s working correctly, locking and unlocking your doors and starting your vehicle remotely if applicable.
What If Battery Replacement Doesn’t Solve the Issue?
In the vast majority of cases, replacing the battery will resolve issues with a non-responsive key fob. However, if you’ve replaced the battery and your 2017 Subaru Forester key fob is still not working, there might be another issue.
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Key Fob Programming: It’s possible that the key fob has lost its programming synchronization with your vehicle. While older Subaru models sometimes allowed for DIY programming, newer models like the 2017 Forester often require dealership programming for security reasons.
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Key Fob Damage: If your key fob has been dropped, gotten wet, or otherwise damaged, internal components could be malfunctioning.
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Vehicle Issues: In rare cases, the problem might not be the key fob itself, but an issue with your Subaru Forester’s receiver or vehicle battery.
If you suspect any of these issues, or if you’re simply not comfortable performing the battery replacement yourself, the experts at KeyFobX are here to help. We can diagnose the problem, replace your key fob battery, program a new key fob if necessary, or advise you on any further steps.
Rely on KeyFobX for Your Subaru Key Fob Needs
Replacing your 2017 Subaru Forester key fob battery is usually a simple fix. By following these steps, you can often resolve the problem quickly and get back on the road with a functioning key fob. However, for any more complex issues or if you prefer professional assistance, don’t hesitate to contact us at KeyFobX. We are dedicated to providing expert car key fob services and ensuring you have a seamless experience with your vehicle. We are your trusted source for Subaru key fob battery replacements and related services.
