As your trusted auto repair experts at keyfobx.com, we understand the frustration of a malfunctioning key fob. It can disrupt your day and leave you feeling stranded. If you drive a 2017 Subaru and your key fob is acting up, the most common culprit is a dead battery. Fortunately, replacing the 2017 Subaru Key Fob Battery is a straightforward process you can handle yourself, saving time and money. While we’re always here to assist you at our service center, this guide will empower you to take care of this simple maintenance task right at home.
Identifying Your 2017 Subaru Key Fob Type and Battery Needs
Subaru, like many automakers, uses different key fob designs depending on the model year and trim. For 2017 Subaru vehicles, you’ll likely encounter one of two main key fob styles. Knowing which one you have is crucial because they use different batteries and have slightly different opening procedures.
To determine your 2017 Subaru key fob type, visually inspect your fob and, if available, consult your owner’s manual. Let’s look at the common types:
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Bulging Rectangle Shape: This more modern design is characterized by its rounded rectangular shape with a noticeable bulge. It also includes a metal emergency key that slides into the fob. This type of 2017 Subaru key fob typically uses a CR2032 battery.
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Teardrop Shape: A slightly older design, the teardrop fob is, as the name suggests, shaped like a teardrop. It’s more rounded overall and doesn’t have a removable emergency key in the same way as the rectangular fob. This 2017 Subaru key fob usually requires a CR2025 battery.
Once you’ve identified your key fob type, you’ll know the correct battery you need for your 2017 Subaru key fob battery replacement. You can easily find these batteries at most drug stores, supermarkets, auto parts stores, and online retailers.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your 2017 Subaru Key Fob Battery
No matter which type of 2017 Subaru key fob you have, the battery replacement process is remarkably similar and requires minimal tools. Typically, you’ll only need a small flathead screwdriver and your replacement battery. Let’s break down the steps for each type.
Replacing the Battery in a Bulging Rectangle 2017 Subaru Key Fob (CR2032 Battery)
This is a common key fob for many 2017 Subaru models. Here’s how to replace its battery:
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Remove the Emergency Key: Locate the small silver tab or button on the back of your 2017 Subaru key fob. Press and hold this tab to release the metal emergency key. Slide the key out and set it aside.
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Pry Open the Fob: With the emergency key removed, you’ll see a seam running around the edge of the fob. This is where you need to gently pry it open. Insert a small flathead screwdriver into this seam, preferably near where you removed the emergency key.
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Carefully Twist: Once the screwdriver is inserted, gently twist it to start separating the two halves of the key fob. You may hear a slight clicking sound as the clips release. Work your way around the seam, carefully prying until the fob is open. Avoid using excessive force, as you don’t want to damage the casing.
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Locate and Remove the Old Battery: Open the fob completely. You’ll see the transmitter circuit board and the round, flat battery. Note the orientation of the battery (which side is facing up). Gently pry the old CR2032 battery loose. You might be able to use your fingernail or the flathead screwdriver to help with this, being careful not to damage the circuit board.
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Install the New Battery: Take your new CR2032 battery and insert it into the battery compartment. Ensure the correct side is facing up – usually, the positive (+) side faces upwards, but double-check the markings in the battery compartment and the orientation of the old battery. Try to avoid touching the flat surfaces of the new battery with your fingers, as oils from your skin can reduce battery life.
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Reassemble the Fob: Carefully snap the two halves of the 2017 Subaru key fob back together. Press firmly until you hear or feel them click securely into place.
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Re-insert the Emergency Key: Slide the metal emergency key back into its slot until it clicks and locks into place.
New Alt Text: Bulging rectangular 2017 Subaru key fob, highlighting the emergency key removal point, relevant for battery replacement guide.
Replacing the Battery in a Teardrop 2017 Subaru Key Fob (CR2025 Battery)
For the teardrop-shaped 2017 Subaru key fob, the process is very similar, just without the emergency key removal step:
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Pry Open the Fob: Locate the seam running around the edge of your teardrop 2017 Subaru key fob. Insert a small flathead screwdriver into the seam.
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Carefully Twist: Gently twist the screwdriver to start separating the two halves of the fob, just like with the rectangular fob. Work your way around the seam until the fob is open.
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Locate and Remove the Old Battery: Open the fob and locate the battery. Note its orientation before removing the old CR2025 battery. Gently pry it out.
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Install the New Battery: Insert the new CR2025 battery, ensuring correct orientation (positive side up).
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Reassemble the Fob: Snap the two halves of the fob back together firmly until they are securely closed.
New Alt Text: Teardrop shaped 2017 Subaru key fob, illustrating the seam for opening the case to access the battery compartment for replacement.
What If Replacing the Battery Doesn’t Work?
In the vast majority of cases, replacing the battery will solve the issue with your 2017 Subaru key fob. However, if you’ve replaced the battery and your fob still isn’t working, there are a couple of possibilities:
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Incorrect Battery Installation: Double-check that you installed the new battery with the correct orientation. A reversed battery will not work.
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Key Fob Damage or Malfunction: While less common, your key fob itself could be damaged or malfunctioning. If you’ve tried a new battery and confirmed correct installation, this might be the issue.
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Key Fob Programming: In rare cases, especially after battery replacement, your key fob might need to be reprogrammed to your vehicle.
If you suspect a more serious issue or need key fob programming, the experts at keyfobx.com are here to help. While some older Subaru models allowed for DIY key fob programming, newer models, including many 2017 Subarus, often require dealership or professional equipment for programming due to security protocols.
Contact Keyfobx.com for Expert Subaru Key Fob Services
While replacing your 2017 Subaru key fob battery is usually a simple DIY task, keyfobx.com is your trusted partner for all your Subaru key fob needs. If you encounter any issues, prefer professional assistance, or need key fob programming or replacement, don’t hesitate to contact us.
Our experienced technicians can quickly diagnose any key fob problems and provide efficient solutions. We offer battery replacement services, key fob programming, and genuine Subaru key fob replacements. We are committed to providing expert, reliable service to get you back on the road with a functioning key fob as quickly as possible.
For convenient and professional 2017 Subaru key fob battery replacement and other key fob services, choose keyfobx.com – your trusted auto repair experts.
