Are you struggling to unlock your Subaru Outback with your key fob? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. A dead key fob battery is a common issue, but thankfully, replacing it is a straightforward task you can easily handle yourself. This guide will walk you through the simple steps to replace your Subaru Outback key fob battery, ensuring you’re back on the road in no time.
Knowing how to change your Subaru Outback key fob battery can save you time and a trip to the dealership. Depending on the year and model of your Outback, there are a few different key fob designs. Identifying the type you have is the first step to a successful battery replacement. Let’s dive into understanding your key fob and getting it powered up again.
Identifying Your Subaru Outback Key Fob Type for Battery Replacement
Subaru Outback key fobs come in a few different shapes, primarily three, and each requires a specific type of battery. Knowing which fob you have is crucial for buying the correct replacement battery. Typically, you’ll encounter one of these three designs for your Subaru Outback:
- Bulging Rectangle Shape: This is common in newer Subaru Outback models. This fob usually requires a CR2032 battery.
- Teardrop Shape: This older, teardrop-shaped fob is found in earlier Subaru Outbacks. It typically uses a CR2025 battery.
- Exposed Metal Key with Buttons: This is the oldest style of electronic key fob. It features a visible metal key and utilizes a CR 1620 battery.
If you’re unsure which key fob you have for your Subaru Outback, the quickest way to confirm is to check your owner’s manual. It will specify the type of key fob and the corresponding battery needed. Once you’ve identified your key fob type, you can proceed with the battery replacement steps outlined below.
Step-by-Step Guide to Subaru Outback Key Fob Battery Replacement
No matter which Subaru Outback key fob you have, the battery replacement process is generally similar and requires minimal tools. Here’s a detailed guide for each type:
Subaru Outback Key Fob Battery Replacement – Bulging Rectangle Shape (CR2032 Battery)
If your Subaru Outback key fob is a bulging rectangle, you’ll need a CR2032 battery. Follow these steps:
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Remove the Emergency Key: Locate the small silver tab on the back of your Subaru Outback key fob. Press and hold this tab to release and remove the metal emergency key.
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Pry Open the Fob: Carefully separate the two halves of the fob. You can use a flathead screwdriver inserted into the seam to gently pry it open. Be cautious not to apply excessive force to avoid damaging the casing.
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Locate and Remove the Old Battery: Once open, you’ll see the round, flat CR2032 battery. It might be on top of or underneath a transmitter circuit board, depending on how the fob opens. Gently release the old battery from its housing.
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Insert the New CR2032 Battery: Take your new CR2032 battery and place it into the battery compartment. Ensure the correct side (usually marked with a “+” symbol) is facing upwards. Try to minimize touching the flat surfaces of the new battery with your fingers.
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Reassemble the Fob: Snap the two halves of your Subaru Outback key fob back together until they are securely closed. Re-insert the metal emergency key until it clicks into place.
Subaru Outback Key Fob Battery Replacement – Teardrop Shape (CR2025 Battery)
For the teardrop-shaped Subaru Outback key fob, you will need a CR2025 battery. The process is very similar to the rectangular fob, but it lacks the emergency key release:
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Pry Open the Fob: Carefully pry open the teardrop Subaru Outback key fob using a flathead screwdriver or a similar tool. Insert it into the seam and gently twist to separate the two halves.
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Remove and Replace the CR2025 Battery: Locate the CR2025 battery inside the fob. Remove the old battery and replace it with a new CR2025, ensuring the correct polarity.
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Reassemble the Fob: Press the two halves of the teardrop Subaru Outback key fob back together until they snap shut securely.
Subaru Outback Key Fob Battery Replacement – Exposed Metal Key with Buttons (CR1620 Battery)
If your Subaru Outback key fob has an exposed metal key, it uses a CR1620 battery. This type has an additional inner casing:
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Open the Exterior Casing: Open the outer casing of the Subaru Outback key fob as you would for the rectangular or teardrop fobs, by prying it apart at the seam.
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Open the Interior Casing: Inside the exterior casing, you’ll find a second, smaller casing. This interior casing has small tabs that you need to press to open it. Carefully press these tabs to access the battery.
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Replace the CR1620 Battery: Remove the old CR1620 battery and replace it with a new one, making sure the correct side is facing up.
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Reassemble Both Casings: Close the interior casing first, then place it back into the exterior casing. Snap both casings closed securely.
What if Replacing the Battery Doesn’t Solve the Issue?
In most cases, replacing the battery will resolve key fob issues. However, if you’ve replaced the battery and your Subaru Outback key fob still isn’t working, the problem might be more complex. It’s possible that the key fob itself needs to be replaced or reprogrammed.
For newer Subaru Outback models, key fob programming often requires dealership intervention due to security protocols. If you suspect your key fob needs reprogramming or replacement, it’s best to contact your local Subaru dealership, like Subaru North Orlando, for assistance. They have the tools and expertise to diagnose and fix more complex key fob problems.
While older Subaru Outback key fobs can sometimes be programmed at home, this process can be intricate and may not always be successful. If you’re considering home programming, proceed with caution and consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions. If you’re unsure or uncomfortable with the process, professional help is always recommended.
Conclusion
Replacing the battery in your Subaru Outback key fob is usually a simple and effective solution to regain access and control of your vehicle. By identifying your key fob type and following the step-by-step guide, you can quickly resolve this common issue. If you encounter further problems, don’t hesitate to seek assistance from a certified Subaru service center for professional support and to ensure your Subaru Outback remains reliable and secure.
