How to Program a Subaru Key Fob: A Simple Guide

For Subaru owners looking to replace or program a new key fob, the question often arises: can this be done at home? If you own a Subaru, especially a model that isn’t the very latest new Subaru, you might be in luck. While for the newest Subaru vehicles, programming typically requires a visit to an authorized Subaru dealership service center, older models often allow for at-home key fob programming. Subaru Lakeland is here to guide you through the process of How To Program A Subaru Key Fob yourself.

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Determining if You Can Program Your Subaru Key Fob at Home

Before diving into the programming steps, it’s crucial to identify the type of key fob your Subaru uses. The key fobs that are typically programmable by the owner are characterized by a teardrop shape. If your Subaru key fob matches this description, you can likely program it at home by following the instructions below.

Locating Your 8-Digit Subaru Key Fob Programming Code

The first step in programming your Subaru key fob is to find its unique 8-digit programming code. This code is essential for syncing your key fob with your vehicle. Here’s how to find it:

1. Access the Transmitter Circuit Board: Carefully open the key fob casing. This will give you access to the transmitter circuit board inside.
2. Identify the 8-Digit Number: Look for one or two series of numbers printed on the transmitter. Each series will be 8 digits long.
3. Record the First 8-Digit Number: Write down the first 8-digit number series you see. This is the code you will need for the programming process.
4. Reassemble the Key Fob: Put the key fob case back together securely.
5. Prepare Your Subaru: Sit in the driver’s seat of your Subaru. Ensure all doors are fully closed and the vehicle is completely turned off.

Step-by-Step Guide to Program Your Subaru Key Fob

Once you have your 8-digit code, you’re ready to program your Subaru key fob. Follow these steps precisely and promptly:

1. Initial Door and Ignition Sequence:

   • Open the driver’s side door.
   • Use the door button control to unlock all doors.
   • Close the driver’s side door.
   • Insert the key into the ignition.
   • Quickly turn the ignition key to the “ON” position (where the electrical systems are active, but the engine is not started), and then immediately back to the “OFF” position. Repeat this “ON” to “OFF” cycle ten times in rapid succession.

2. Confirmation Chimes and Dome Lights:

   • After the tenth key cycle, you should hear a chime from the instrument panel.
   • Open and then close the driver’s side door again.
   • Listen for a second chime. The vehicle’s dome lights should flash at this point, indicating programming mode is active.
   • You now have approximately 45 seconds to enter your 8-digit transmitter number.

3. Entering the 8-Digit Transmitter Code: Use the lock/unlock buttons on the driver’s side door to input your code.

   • Locate the Lock/Unlock Buttons: These buttons are typically found on the driver’s side door panel, near the power window controls.
   • Enter Each Digit: For each digit in your 8-digit code:
     • Press the “lock” button the number of times corresponding to the digit.
     • Immediately after pressing the “lock” button(s), press the “unlock” button once.
     • Repeat this for each of the eight digits in your code.
   • Confirmation Chime: After entering all eight digits, you should hear a chime from outside the vehicle, confirming the code entry.
   • Repeat Code Entry for Verification: Repeat the entire 8-digit code entry process (steps 2 and 3 above) one more time to confirm accurate entry. If successful, you’ll hear the vehicle’s locking system engage with a click.

4. Finalizing and Testing:

   • Open and close the driver’s side door.
   • Press the “lock” or “unlock” button on your Subaru key fob.
   • Remove the key from the ignition. You should hear another chime.
   • Open and close the door one last time.
   • Wait about five seconds, and then test your key fob by pressing the lock and unlock buttons to ensure it is working correctly.

[Imagine of a teardrop shaped Subaru key fob being opened to show the circuit board with 8-digit code. Alt text: Opened teardrop Subaru key fob showing circuit board and location of 8-digit programming code.]

Subaru Key Fob Battery Replacement: Steps for Newer Models

If you drive a newer Subaru model newer Subaru around Bartow and Lake Wales, and your key fob has a rectangular shape, you might not be able to program it at home. However, you can still handle a Subaru key fob battery replacement yourself. Here’s how to change the battery in a newer, rectangular Subaru key fob, which typically requires a 2032 battery:

1. Remove the Mechanical Key: On the back of the rectangular key fob, locate and push the small silver tab or button. This will release the mechanical key, allowing you to slide it out.
2. Pry Open the Key Fob Casing: Insert the tip of the mechanical key you just removed, or a small flathead screwdriver, into the small slot or gap located where the mechanical key was housed.
3. Open the Casing: Gently twist the key or screwdriver to pry open the key fob cover. The case should separate into two halves.
4. Locate the Battery: Identify the battery inside the key fob. It might be on either side of the transmitter circuit board, depending on your model.
5. Replace the Battery: Carefully remove the old battery. Take note of which side is facing up (+ side usually faces up). Install the new 2032 battery, ensuring the correct orientation.
6. Reassemble the Key Fob: Carefully snap the two halves of the key fob case back together until they are securely closed. Re-insert the mechanical key until it clicks into place.

[Imagine of a rectangular Subaru key fob being opened to replace the battery. Alt text: Rectangular Subaru key fob disassembled for battery replacement, showing battery compartment and CR2032 battery.]

Need More Help? Visit Our Parts Department

If you encounter any issues while trying to program your Subaru key fob, or if you have a newer model and need assistance, don’t hesitate to contact our parts department for expert guidance. We’re here to answer all your questions about Subaru key fob programming and replacement.

Our parts store is also well-stocked with genuine OEM Subaru parts and accessories. You can conveniently order everything you need from home or reach out to us online for support and to inquire about our current parts specials.