As a Subaru Ascent owner, you rely on your key fob for convenient access and vehicle operation. However, a common frustration arises when the key fob battery dies unexpectedly. Understanding the factors affecting your Subaru Ascent Key Fob Battery life and knowing how to address related issues is crucial for a seamless driving experience. Let’s delve into the common culprits behind battery drain and explore solutions to keep you on the road.
Understanding Factors Affecting Your Key Fob Battery
Several elements can influence how long your Subaru Ascent key fob battery lasts. It’s not always just about random battery failure; often, there are identifiable reasons behind a shortened lifespan.
Battery Quality and Manufacturing
The quality control of CR2032 coin batteries, the standard for many key fobs including the Subaru Ascent, plays a significant role. Not all batteries are created equal. Even from reputable brands, occasional faulty batteries can slip through quality checks. If you have a battery tester, checking the voltage before installing a new battery in your Subaru Ascent key fob can save you potential headaches. Using brands like Energizer or Duracell generally offers reasonable quality and consistency. For Panasonic batteries, ensure you are sourcing genuine ones, especially if ordering online.
Usage Habits: Are You Overusing Your Fob?
Consider your usage habits. Do you frequently and repeatedly press the lock/unlock buttons as you approach or leave your Subaru Ascent? This habit, common among many drivers, can significantly accelerate battery discharge. The solution? Utilize the touch-sensitive door lock feature and the proximity unlocking functionality of your Ascent. For those moments of double-checking after walking away, the MySubaru/Starlink app offers remote locking and vehicle status checks, reducing unnecessary key fob button presses.
Proximity Drain: Key Fob and Vehicle “Chatter”
Anecdotal evidence across various car brands suggests that keeping your Subaru Ascent key fob too close to the vehicle when parked can lead to battery drain in both the fob and the car. The continuous communication between the fob and the vehicle, even when idle, can deplete battery power. To mitigate this, store your key fob further away from your Subaru Ascent when at home, allowing the vehicle to fully enter its “sleep” mode. Alternatively, consider using a Faraday cage or a signal-blocking valet tray to store your fob, effectively preventing this constant communication and preserving battery life.
What To Do When Your Key Fob Battery Dies
Even with preventative measures, you might still encounter a dead Subaru Ascent key fob battery. Knowing how to handle this situation is essential. Firstly, familiarize yourself with the location and use of your emergency mechanical key. Ensure it works correctly to manually unlock your door – it’s advisable to test this periodically. Secondly, understand how to start your Subaru Ascent with a “dead” fob. Refer to your owner’s manual for the specific procedure, which usually involves holding the fob close to the start button. While still potentially inconvenient, knowing these emergency procedures can alleviate stress if you find yourself with a non-functional key fob.
In conclusion, understanding the factors impacting your Subaru Ascent key fob battery life, from battery quality to usage patterns and proximity issues, empowers you to proactively manage and extend battery longevity. By adopting mindful habits and knowing how to respond when the battery does eventually need replacing, you can minimize disruptions and maintain the convenience your key fob offers.
