Is your 2020 Subaru Forester key fob not working as reliably as it used to? Perhaps you’re experiencing intermittent issues, or maybe it’s completely unresponsive. Before you panic, the most common culprit is a dead or dying key fob battery. The good news is that replacing the battery in your 2020 Subaru Forester key fob is a straightforward process you can easily do yourself, saving you time and a trip to the dealership. As your trusted auto repair experts at keyfobx.com, we’re here to guide you through each step.
Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or a first-time car maintenance novice, this guide will provide you with clear, easy-to-follow instructions for replacing your 2020 Subaru Forester Key Fob Battery. We’ll cover the tools you’ll need, the type of battery required, and a detailed walkthrough of the replacement process. Let’s get your key fob working like new again!
Identifying Your Subaru Key Fob Type
Subaru has utilized a few different key fob designs over the years. For the 2020 Subaru Forester, you’ll likely have one of two main types of key fobs:
- Bulging Rectangle Shape: This is a more modern design, characterized by its rectangular shape with a noticeable bulge.
- Teardrop Shape: An older design, this fob is shaped like a teardrop and is typically found in slightly older models, though it’s still possible for a 2020 Forester to use this depending on the specific trim and production date.
While both types serve the same function, the battery replacement process is slightly different for each. Don’t worry, though; both are equally simple. If you’re unsure which key fob you have, take a close look at your key. The shape will be the most obvious indicator.
Alt text: Close-up of a bulging rectangle-shaped Subaru key fob, commonly used for models like the 2020 Forester, highlighting its distinct shape.
For the 2020 Subaru Forester, it’s highly probable you have the bulging rectangle shape key fob. This guide will primarily focus on this type, but we’ll also touch upon the teardrop shape fob for completeness.
What Battery Does a 2020 Subaru Forester Key Fob Need?
Knowing the correct battery type is crucial before you begin. For the bulging rectangle key fob of a 2020 Subaru Forester, you will need a CR2032 battery. This is a common button-cell battery that is widely available at drugstores, supermarkets, auto parts stores, and online retailers.
Alt text: A single, new CR2032 button cell battery, the standard replacement battery for 2020 Subaru Forester bulging rectangle key fobs, shown against a neutral background.
If you happen to have the teardrop shape fob (less likely for a 2020 model but possible), it typically uses a CR2025 battery. It’s always best to double-check your owner’s manual to confirm the exact battery type for your specific key fob to avoid any issues.
Step-by-Step Guide: Replacing the 2020 Subaru Forester Key Fob Battery (Bulging Rectangle Fob)
Replacing the battery in your bulging rectangle 2020 Subaru Forester key fob is a quick task that should take no more than 5-10 minutes. Here’s how to do it:
Tools You’ll Need:
- A new CR2032 battery
- A small flathead screwdriver (or a thin, sturdy tool like a butter knife or plastic pry tool)
Steps:
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Remove the Emergency Key: Locate the small silver tab on the back of your key fob. Press and hold this tab while simultaneously pulling out the metal emergency key. This key is a backup to manually unlock your car door if the key fob is completely dead. Set the emergency key aside.
Alt text: Hands demonstrating the removal of the metal emergency key from a bulging rectangle Subaru key fob by pressing the release tab, with the key partially pulled out.
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Pry Open the Key Fob: Once the emergency key is removed, you’ll see a seam running around the center of the key fob. This is where you need to gently pry it open. Insert your flathead screwdriver (or chosen tool) into this seam. Apply gentle pressure and twist the screwdriver to separate the two halves of the fob. Work your way around the seam carefully until the fob pops open.
Alt text: A flathead screwdriver carefully inserted into the seam of a Subaru key fob to pry it open for battery replacement, with the focus on the separation point.
Be cautious not to use excessive force, as you could damage the plastic casing.
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Locate the Battery: After opening the fob, you’ll see the internal components. The round, flat CR2032 battery will be visible. It might be positioned either on top of or underneath the transmitter circuit board, depending on how the fob halves separated.
Alt text: Interior view of an opened Subaru key fob revealing the transmitter circuit board and the location of the circular key fob battery, highlighting the components within.
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Remove and Replace the Battery: Gently release the old battery. In some cases, there might be a small clip holding it in place; if so, carefully push the clip aside to free the battery. Take note of the battery’s orientation (+ side up). Remove the old battery and insert the new CR2032 battery in the same orientation, ensuring the correct side is facing upwards.
Avoid touching the flat surfaces of the new battery with your bare fingers as much as possible. Oils from your skin can reduce battery life. Use gloves or hold the battery by its edges.
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Reassemble the Key Fob: Carefully snap the two halves of the 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 in place.
Testing Your Key Fob:
Once you’ve reassembled the key fob, test it to ensure it’s working correctly. Press the lock, unlock, and panic buttons to verify that your 2020 Subaru Forester responds as expected. If everything works, you’ve successfully replaced your key fob battery!
Replacing the Battery in a Teardrop Shape Subaru Key Fob
If your 2020 Subaru Forester happens to use the teardrop-shaped key fob, the process is very similar. The main difference is that the teardrop fob does not have a removable emergency key.
- Pry Open the Fob: Locate the seam on the teardrop fob and use your flathead screwdriver or pry tool to carefully open the two halves, just like with the bulging rectangle fob.
- Battery Replacement: The battery will be accessible once open. Teardrop fobs typically use a CR2025 battery. Remove the old battery and replace it with the new CR2025 battery, ensuring correct polarity (+ side up).
- Reassemble and Test: Snap the fob back together and test its functionality.
What If Battery Replacement Doesn’t Work?
In the vast majority of cases, replacing the key fob battery will solve the issue. However, if you’ve replaced the battery and your 2020 Subaru Forester key fob still isn’t working, there could be other potential problems:
- Key Fob Programming: Sometimes, after a battery change, or if there are other electronic issues, the key fob might need to be reprogrammed to your vehicle. While Subaru dealership service is typically required for newer models, older models might allow for DIY programming. (The original article touches on this, but for a 2020 Forester, dealership programming is almost certainly needed).
- Key Fob Damage: The key fob itself could be damaged internally due to drops, moisture, or general wear and tear.
- Vehicle Issues: In rare cases, the problem might not be the key fob at all, but an issue with your Subaru Forester’s receiver system.
When to Seek Professional Help:
If you’ve replaced the battery and are still experiencing problems, or if you suspect a more complex issue, it’s best to consult with a professional. As experts in Subaru vehicles, the service technicians at your local Subaru dealership will be able to diagnose the problem accurately and provide the necessary repairs or key fob replacement and programming services.
Conclusion
Replacing the battery in your 2020 Subaru Forester key fob is usually a quick, easy, and cost-effective solution to common key fob problems. By following these simple steps, you can likely restore your key fob’s functionality and avoid unnecessary inconvenience. However, if you encounter any issues or prefer professional assistance, don’t hesitate to schedule service with a certified Subaru technician. We at keyfobx.com are committed to providing you with helpful guides and expert advice to keep your vehicle running smoothly!
