It’s a common frustration for Subaru owners: the nagging issue of a seemingly short-lived battery in their key fob. While convenient, these little devices can become a source of annoyance when they unexpectedly stop working. Understanding why your Subaru key fob battery drains faster than expected and knowing how to address it can save you from future headaches and ensure you’re never caught off guard.
Factors Affecting Your Subaru Key Fob Battery Life
Several factors can contribute to the lifespan of your Battery In Subaru Key Fob. Let’s explore the main culprits:
Battery Quality and Manufacturing Consistency
The quality control during the manufacturing of CR2032 coin batteries, commonly used in Subaru key fobs, plays a significant role. Not all batteries are created equal. Even from reputable brands, a defective battery can occasionally slip through quality checks. If you have a battery tester, it’s a worthwhile step to quickly assess a new battery before installing it in your fob. This simple check can potentially save you from the inconvenience of a premature battery failure. If you’re purchasing replacements, opting for well-known brands like Energizer or Duracell generally offers better reliability. Genuine Panasonic batteries are also a good choice, though they may be more readily available through online retailers.
Usage Habits: Frequent Button Presses
Do you find yourself repeatedly pressing the lock and unlock buttons on your Subaru key fob as you approach or leave your vehicle? This habit, while perhaps stemming from being meticulous, can significantly reduce battery life. Each button press sends a signal, drawing power from the battery. If you frequently and excessively use the buttons, you’ll naturally deplete the battery faster. A smart solution offered in many Subaru models is to utilize the touch-sensitive door locking and proximity unlocking features. These systems minimize the need for button presses, conserving battery power. For those moments of doubt after walking away from your car, resist the urge to repeatedly hit the lock button. Instead, consider using the MySubaru/Starlink app to confirm your vehicle’s lock status remotely.
Proximity to Vehicle: Constant Signal Drain
There’s growing evidence suggesting that keeping your Subaru smart key fob too close to your vehicle when at home can lead to quicker battery drainage in both the fob and potentially the car itself. The constant communication attempts between the fob and the vehicle, even when parked, can create a continuous drain. To mitigate this, try storing your key fob further away from your Subaru when you’re at home. Alternatively, consider using a Faraday cage or a “valet” box designed to block electromagnetic fields. Placing your fob inside such a container when you’re not using it effectively isolates it, preventing unnecessary signal transmission and conserving battery power.
Tips to Extend Your Subaru Key Fob Battery Life
Here’s a recap of actionable steps you can take to maximize the life of your battery in subaru key fob:
- Utilize Touch and Proximity Features: Leverage your Subaru’s touch-enabled locking and proximity unlocking to minimize physical button presses on the key fob.
- Store Your Fob Away from the Vehicle: Keep your key fob at a distance from your Subaru when at home or parked for extended periods to prevent constant signal exchange. Consider a Faraday cage for optimal signal blocking.
- Test New Batteries: If you have a battery tester, quickly check the voltage of new CR2032 batteries before installing them to rule out potentially weak or defective ones.
- Choose Reputable Battery Brands: Opt for quality batteries from well-known manufacturers like Energizer, Duracell, or genuine Panasonic for better performance and longevity.
By understanding these factors and implementing these simple tips, you can significantly improve the battery life of your Subaru key fob and enjoy more reliable performance from this essential car accessory.
