Is your 2021 Subaru Forester key fob refusing to cooperate? Don’t panic! Often, the culprit is simply a dead battery. Thinking you’re stranded because of a lifeless key fob can be frustrating, but replacing the battery in your Subaru Forester key fob is a straightforward task you can easily handle yourself. This guide will walk you through each step of the 2021 Subaru Forester Key Fob Battery Replacement process, ensuring you’re back on the road in no time.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your 2021 Subaru Forester Key Fob Battery
For the 2021 Subaru Forester, you’ll likely have the bulging rectangle-shaped key fob. Replacing the battery in this type of fob is quick and requires minimal tools. Here’s exactly how to do it:
Tools You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather these simple tools:
- A new CR2032 battery. This is the specific battery type required for the 2021 Subaru Forester key fob. You can find these at most drugstores, supermarkets, and online retailers.
- A small flathead screwdriver or a thin pry tool. A butter knife can also work in a pinch, but be careful not to scratch the fob.
Alt: 2021 Subaru Forester key fob and removed metal emergency key, highlighting components for battery replacement.
Replacing the Battery: Step-by-Step
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Remove the Emergency Key: Locate the small silver tab on the back of your 2021 Subaru Forester key fob. Press and hold this tab to release and slide out the metal emergency key. Set the key aside.
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Pry Open the Key Fob: Carefully inspect the seam running around the edge of your key fob. This is where you’ll gently pry it open. Insert your flathead screwdriver or pry tool into this seam. Apply gentle pressure to separate the two halves of the fob. Work your way around the seam, prying it open little by little. Be patient and avoid using excessive force to prevent damage to the casing.
Alt: Close-up of prying open the 2021 Subaru Forester key fob casing with a flathead screwdriver to access the battery compartment.
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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 opened.
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Remove the Old Battery: Gently release the old CR2032 battery. In some cases, it might be held in place by small clips. Note the orientation of the battery (which side is facing up) before removing it.
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Install the New Battery: Take your new CR2032 battery and place it into the battery compartment. Ensure the correct side is facing upwards – usually, the positive (+) side faces up, but double-check the markings in the battery compartment to be certain. Try to minimize touching the flat surfaces of the new battery with your fingers; holding it by the edges is preferable to prevent oil transfer.
Alt: Inserting a new CR2032 battery into the 2021 Subaru Forester key fob, ensuring correct polarity for proper function.
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Reassemble the Key Fob: Carefully snap the two halves of your 2021 Subaru Forester key fob back together. You should hear a click or feel them securely fasten.
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Re-insert the Emergency Key: Slide the metal emergency key back into its slot until it clicks into place.
Testing Your 2021 Subaru Forester Key Fob
After completing these steps, test your key fob to ensure it’s working correctly. Try locking and unlocking your 2021 Subaru Forester remotely. If everything is functioning as expected, you’ve successfully completed your 2021 Subaru Forester key fob battery replacement!
What If This Doesn’t Solve the Problem?
In the vast majority of cases, replacing the battery will resolve issues with a non-responsive key fob. However, if your 2021 Subaru Forester key fob still isn’t working after a battery replacement, there might be another issue. It’s possible that the key fob itself is faulty or requires reprogramming.
For 2021 Subaru Forester models, key fob programming is typically handled by a dealership or a qualified automotive locksmith. If you suspect your key fob needs reprogramming or replacement, it’s best to contact your local Subaru dealer for assistance. They have the specialized equipment to diagnose and resolve more complex key fob issues.
A Quick and Easy Fix
Replacing the battery in your 2021 Subaru Forester key fob is generally a quick, easy, and cost-effective solution to regain remote access to your vehicle. By following these simple steps, you can avoid the inconvenience of a dead key fob and keep your Subaru Forester running smoothly.
