Is your 2020 Subaru Outback key fob acting up? Before you worry about expensive repairs or dealership visits, the most common culprit is a dead battery. Don’t stress – replacing the battery in your Subaru Outback key fob is a straightforward task you can easily handle at home. This guide will walk you through each step, ensuring you get your key fob back in working order quickly and efficiently.
Knowing how to replace your key fob battery can save you time and money. Whether you’re preparing for a road trip or simply want to avoid the inconvenience of a malfunctioning key fob, understanding this simple maintenance task is essential for any 2020 Subaru Outback owner. Let’s dive into how to get this done.
Step-by-Step Guide: Replacing Your 2020 Subaru Outback Key Fob Battery
The process for replacing the battery in your 2020 Subaru Outback key fob is generally the same across different fob styles. However, the battery type might vary. For the 2020 Subaru Outback, you’ll most likely encounter the bulging rectangle shape key fob, which uses a CR2032 battery. Let’s get started.
Tools You’ll Need
- A new CR2032 battery. You can find these at most drugstores, supermarkets, and online retailers.
- A small flathead screwdriver or a similar thin tool to help pry open the fob.
- A soft cloth to protect the fob from scratches.
Replacing the Battery in a Bulging Rectangle Shape Key Fob (Common for 2020 Subaru Outback)
This type of fob is frequently used with the 2020 Subaru Outback. 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 2020 Subaru Outback key fob. Press and hold this tab to release and remove the metal emergency key. Slide the key out and set it aside.
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Pry Open the Fob: Carefully inspect the seam running around the key fob. This is where you’ll gently pry it open. Use your flathead screwdriver, inserting it into the seam. Twist gently to separate the two halves of the fob. Be patient and avoid applying excessive force to prevent damage to the casing. You can use a soft cloth around the screwdriver tip to further protect 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 or underneath the transmitter circuit board depending on how the fob opened.
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Replace the Battery: Carefully release the old CR2032 battery. It might be held in place by small clips. Gently pry it out with your fingertip or the flathead screwdriver. Take the new CR2032 battery and place it into the compartment, ensuring the correct side is facing upwards (usually the positive side, marked with a “+”, faces up). Try to 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 Fob: Carefully align the two halves of the key fob and press them back together until they snap securely. You should hear a click or feel them lock into place. Finally, slide the metal emergency key back into its slot until it clicks and is firmly secured.
What About Other Subaru Key Fob Shapes?
While the bulging rectangle fob is common for the 2020 Subaru Outback, you might encounter slightly different shapes depending on the specific trim or if you have an older fob. Here’s a quick overview of other types you might see:
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Teardrop Shape Fob: This older style fob uses a CR2025 battery. The replacement process is very similar to the bulging rectangle fob, but it doesn’t have an emergency key release. Simply skip step 1 and proceed with prying open the fob.
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Exposed Metal Key Fob with Buttons: This is the oldest type of electronic Subaru key fob. It uses a CR1620 battery. The key difference is that this fob has an outer casing and a smaller inner casing. You’ll need to open both to access the battery. The outer casing opens similarly to the rectangle fob. The inner casing usually has small tabs that need to be pressed to open it. Once inside, the battery replacement process is the same.
Troubleshooting and When to Seek Professional Help
After replacing the battery, your 2020 Subaru Outback key fob should ideally work immediately. However, if you’re still experiencing issues, consider these troubleshooting steps:
- Battery Polarity: Double-check that you inserted the new battery with the correct polarity (+ side facing up).
- Battery Freshness: Ensure the new battery is fresh and not expired.
- Fob Damage: Inspect the internal components of the fob for any visible damage or corrosion.
If your key fob still doesn’t work after a battery replacement, it might indicate a more complex issue, such as:
- Key Fob Programming: In rare cases, especially with newer vehicles or after repeated battery changes, the key fob might need to be reprogrammed to your 2020 Subaru Outback. While the original article mentions a DIY programming method, it’s often more reliable and recommended to have a dealership program it, particularly for newer models.
- Fob Malfunction: The key fob itself could be faulty and need replacement. New key fobs must be ordered and programmed by a Subaru dealership to ensure security and compatibility with your vehicle’s immobilizer system.
Conclusion
Replacing the battery in your 2020 Subaru Outback key fob is usually a quick and simple fix for most key fob issues. By following these steps, you can confidently perform this maintenance yourself and get back to enjoying the convenience of your keyless entry. However, if you encounter persistent problems, don’t hesitate to contact your local Subaru dealership. They have the expertise and equipment to diagnose and resolve any more complex key fob issues, ensuring your 2020 Subaru Outback remains secure and reliable. Consider scheduling a service appointment if you prefer professional assistance or suspect your key fob requires reprogramming or replacement.
