Experiencing issues with your 2018 Subaru key fob can be frustrating, often leaving you feeling locked out of your vehicle. The most common culprit is a dead battery. Fortunately, replacing the battery in your 2018 Subaru key fob is a straightforward process you can easily handle yourself. This guide will walk you through each step, ensuring you can quickly regain access to your car. While scheduling service is always an option, learning to replace the battery yourself can save you time and effort.
Identifying Your 2018 Subaru Key Fob Type
Subaru utilizes different key fob designs depending on the model year. For 2018 Subaru vehicles, you’ll likely encounter one of these key fob styles: the bulging rectangle shape or the teardrop shape. To be absolutely certain about your specific key fob and the correct battery it requires, consulting your 2018 Subaru owner’s manual is always recommended. This will provide precise details for your vehicle. Once you’ve identified your key fob type, you can proceed with the appropriate battery replacement steps outlined below.
Step-by-Step Guide: 2018 Subaru Key Fob Battery Replacement
Regardless of whether you have the bulging rectangle or teardrop style fob for your 2018 Subaru, the battery replacement procedure shares many similarities. Let’s break down the process for each type.
Replacing the Battery in a 2018 Subaru Bulging Rectangle Key Fob
Battery Type Required: CR2032 Battery
This type of 2018 Subaru key fob, characterized by its bulging rectangular shape, is common in many models. Here’s how to replace its battery:
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Remove the Emergency Key: Locate the small silver tab on the back of your 2018 Subaru key fob. Press and hold this tab to release and remove the metal emergency key. This key is a separate component and needs to be taken out first to access the fob casing.
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Open the Key Fob Casing: Carefully pry open the fob casing. A flathead screwdriver inserted into the seam between the two halves can be helpful. Gently twist the screwdriver to separate the casing. Be careful not to apply excessive force to avoid damaging the plastic.
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Locate the Battery: Once open, you’ll see the internal components. The flat, round CR2032 battery will be visible, either sitting on top of or underneath the transmitter circuit board, depending on how the fob opens.
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Replace the Old Battery: Gently release the old CR2032 battery from its housing. Take the new CR2032 battery and pop it into place. Ensure the correct side (usually marked with a “+” symbol) is facing upwards. 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 2018 Subaru key fob casing back together. They should click securely into place. Finally, re-insert the metal emergency key until it locks in.
Replacing the Battery in a 2018 Subaru Teardrop Shape Key Fob
Battery Type Required: CR2025 Battery
If your 2018 Subaru utilizes the teardrop-shaped key fob, the battery replacement is very similar to the rectangular fob. The main difference is the battery type and the absence of an emergency key release on some older teardrop models.
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Skip Emergency Key Removal (If Applicable): Note that some older teardrop fobs do not have a removable emergency key. If yours does, remove it as described in step 1 above. If not, proceed directly to opening the casing.
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Open the Key Fob Casing: Just like the rectangular fob, carefully pry open the teardrop fob casing using a flathead screwdriver or similar tool. Insert it into the seam and gently twist to separate the halves.
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Locate and Replace the Battery: Inside, locate the round CR2025 battery. Remove the old battery and replace it with a new CR2025, ensuring correct polarity (+ side up).
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Reassemble the Key Fob: Press the two halves of the teardrop fob casing back together until they snap shut securely.
What If Replacing the Battery Doesn’t Solve the Issue?
In most cases, replacing the battery will revive your 2018 Subaru key fob. However, if you’ve replaced the battery and are still experiencing problems, the issue might be more complex. It’s possible that the key fob itself needs replacement or reprogramming.
Newer Subaru models, especially those using the bulging rectangular fob, often require professional programming at a dealership. For security reasons, obtaining and programming a new key fob usually needs to be done through an authorized Subaru dealer like Subaru North Orlando.
For some older Subaru models, there’s a possibility of programming a new key fob yourself, but this is not guaranteed for 2018 models and newer. The process often involves specific sequences of button presses and ignition turns. If you suspect your key fob needs reprogramming or replacement after battery change, contacting your Subaru dealer is the most reliable next step.
Seeking Professional Assistance
If you’re uncomfortable performing the 2018 Subaru Key Fob Battery replacement yourself, or if you encounter any difficulties, remember that professional help is readily available. Subaru dealerships and certified mechanics are equipped to handle key fob battery replacements, key fob programming, and any other key-related issues for your 2018 Subaru. Scheduling a service appointment ensures the job is done correctly and can address any underlying problems you might be facing with your key fob. Consider checking for service specials at your local Subaru dealership, like Subaru North Orlando, to potentially save on maintenance costs.
