Is your 2020 Subaru Outback key fob acting up? Don’t worry, you’re likely just dealing with a dead battery. It can be frustrating when your key fob stops working, leaving you feeling locked out of your vehicle. The good news is that replacing the battery in your 2020 Subaru Outback key fob is a straightforward task you can easily handle yourself.
While you can always schedule service with us at Keyfobx.com, we understand that sometimes you prefer a DIY approach. This guide will walk you through the process of replacing your 2020 Outback Key Fob Battery, ensuring you’re back on the road in no time.
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Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your 2020 Outback Key Fob Battery
Subaru key fobs have evolved over the years, but for the 2020 Outback, you’ll most likely have the bulging rectangle-shaped fob. While it’s always best to double-check your owner’s manual to confirm your specific key fob type and battery, this guide will primarily focus on the most common type for your 2020 Outback.
Let’s get started on how to replace that dead battery and get your 2020 Subaru Outback key fob working like new again!
Identifying Your Subaru Outback Key Fob Type
While this guide focuses on the 2020 Outback, Subaru has used a few different key fob designs. Here’s how to identify yours, ensuring you use the correct battery and steps:
Bulging Rectangle Shape (Most Likely for 2020 Outback)
Battery Required: 2032
This is the most common key fob style for newer Subaru vehicles, including the 2020 Outback. It’s characterized by its rectangular shape with a noticeable bulge.
Teardrop Shape (Older Models)
Battery Required: 2025
An older design, the teardrop fob is, as the name suggests, shaped like a teardrop. While less likely for a 2020 Outback, it’s good to be aware of this style.
Exposed Metal Key With Buttons (Oldest Electronic Fob)
Battery Required: CR 1620
This is the oldest style of electronic Subaru key fob, easily identifiable by the permanently exposed metal key. This type is unlikely to be used for a 2020 Outback.
If you’re unsure, your owner’s manual is the definitive guide! Once you’ve identified your key fob type, proceed with the battery replacement steps below.
Replacing the Battery in Your 2020 Outback Bulging Rectangle Key Fob
For 2020 Subaru Outback owners, you’ll likely be working with the bulging rectangle key fob and a 2032 battery. Here’s how to replace it:
- Remove the Emergency Key: Locate the small silver tab on the back of your 2020 Outback key fob. Press and hold this tab to release and remove the metal emergency key.
Alt text: Removing the emergency key from a bulging rectangular Subaru key fob, a typical step for 2020 Outback key fob battery replacement.
- Pry Open the Fob: With the emergency key removed, carefully pry open the key fob casing. You can use a flathead screwdriver inserted into the seam between the two halves of the fob for leverage. Be gentle to avoid damaging the plastic casing.
Alt text: Prying open the rectangular casing of a Subaru key fob to access the battery compartment for a 2020 Outback key fob battery change.
- Locate the Battery: Once open, you’ll see the internal components. The round, flat key fob battery (2032 for 2020 Outback) will be visible, possibly above or below a transmitter circuit board depending on how the fob opens.
Alt text: A CR2032 battery is visible inside an opened Subaru key fob, ready for replacement as part of a 2020 Outback key fob battery service.
- Replace the Battery: Carefully release the old battery. You might need to gently pry it out of its holder. Pop the new 2032 battery into place, ensuring the correct side (usually marked with a “+” sign) is facing upwards. Try to minimize touching the new battery with your fingers to avoid transferring oils.
Alt text: Inserting a new CR2032 battery into the Subaru key fob, ensuring correct polarity during a 2020 Outback key fob battery replacement.
- Reassemble the Fob: Snap the two halves of the key fob casing back together until they are securely closed. Re-insert the metal emergency key until it clicks into place. You should hear and feel everything snap back together firmly.
Alt text: Reassembling the rectangular Subaru key fob after a successful 2020 Outback key fob battery replacement procedure.
What About Other Subaru Key Fobs?
The process for the teardrop and exposed metal key fobs is very similar. The main differences are:
- Teardrop Fob: Uses a 2025 battery and does not have a removable emergency key, so skip step 1 for this type. The rest of the steps are essentially the same.
- Exposed Metal Key Fob: Uses a CR 1620 battery. This fob has an additional inner casing that needs to be opened after opening the outer casing. Look for small tabs on the inner casing that you’ll need to press to open it and access the battery.
Programming Your Subaru Key Fob: Is it Necessary After Battery Change?
In most cases, you will not need to reprogram your Subaru key fob after simply replacing the battery, especially for a 2020 Outback. The programming is usually retained even when the battery is removed.
However, if you continue to experience issues after replacing the battery, or if you suspect your key fob itself is faulty, you might need to consider reprogramming or a replacement.
Reprogramming Older Subaru Key Fobs (DIY – May not apply to 2020 Outback):
The original article provides steps for programming older fobs. However, for newer models like the 2020 Outback, this DIY programming method is unlikely to work. Newer Subaru key fobs often require dealership programming due to security protocols.
When Reprogramming is Necessary (and Dealership Assistance):
- Key Fob Replacement: If you need a new key fob, it will definitely require programming.
- Programming Loss: In rare cases, programming might be lost.
For programming a new key fob or if DIY methods fail, it’s best to contact a Subaru dealership like Keyfobx.com.
When to Seek Professional Help at Keyfobx.com
While battery replacement is easy, there are times when professional help is the best option:
- Trouble Opening the Fob: If you’re uncomfortable prying open the fob or fear damaging it.
- Programming Issues: If battery replacement doesn’t solve the problem and you suspect programming issues, especially with a 2020 Outback.
- Key Fob Damage: If your key fob is physically damaged.
- Convenience: If you simply prefer professional service.
At Keyfobx.com, we’re happy to assist with any of your Subaru key fob needs, from battery replacement to programming and new key fob orders.
Contact Us today or Schedule Service online. Check out our service specials to see how you can save on your next visit to our Sanford dealership, conveniently located near Orlando!
Replacing your 2020 Subaru Outback key fob battery is usually a quick and easy fix. By following these steps, you can likely resolve the issue yourself and get back to enjoying the convenience of your key fob. However, remember that keyfobx.com is always here to help if you need professional assistance!
