Is your Subaru Legacy key fob refusing to cooperate? Before you panic, consider the simplest solution: a battery replacement. A dead key fob battery is a common culprit behind unresponsive remotes, and thankfully, swapping it out is a straightforward task you can easily handle yourself. This guide will walk you through the process of Subaru Legacy Key Fob Battery replacement, saving you time and potentially a trip to the dealership.
Identifying Your Subaru Legacy Key Fob and Battery Type
Subaru Legacy models, like many vehicles, have utilized different key fob designs over the years. To ensure a smooth battery replacement, it’s crucial to identify the type of key fob you own. While the steps are generally similar, the battery type varies depending on the fob. Consulting your Subaru Legacy owner’s manual is the most reliable way to determine your specific key fob and the correct battery it requires. However, we’ll cover the three most common Subaru key fob styles to help you get started.
Replacing the Battery in a Bulging Rectangle Subaru Legacy Key Fob
Battery Type Required: CR2032
This modern, rectangular key fob is common in newer Subaru Legacy models. Here’s how to replace its battery:
-
Remove the Emergency Key: Locate the small silver tab on the rear of your key fob. Press and hold this tab to release and slide out the metal emergency key.
-
Open the Key Fob Casing: Carefully separate the two halves of the key fob casing. You can use your fingernail or a small flathead screwdriver inserted into the seam to gently pry it open. Be patient and avoid forcing it to prevent damage.
-
Locate the Battery: Once open, you’ll see the circuit board and the round, flat key fob battery. It might be positioned either above or below the circuit board depending on how the fob opened.
-
Replace the Battery: Gently release the old CR2032 battery. Note the orientation of the battery (+ side up) before removing it. Insert the new CR2032 battery, ensuring the correct side (positive side) faces upwards. Minimize touching the battery surface to maintain its lifespan.
-
Reassemble the Key Fob: Carefully snap the two halves of the key fob casing back together until they are securely closed. Slide the metal emergency key back into its slot until it clicks into place.
Replacing the Battery in a Teardrop Shape Subaru Legacy Key Fob
Battery Type Required: CR2025
The teardrop-shaped key fob is an older design found in some Subaru Legacy models. The battery replacement process is very similar to the rectangular fob, with a slight battery difference and no emergency key removal step:
-
Open the Key Fob Casing: Unlike the rectangular fob, the teardrop shape typically doesn’t have a separate emergency key. Proceed directly to opening the fob casing. Gently pry open the two halves of the fob using your fingernail or a small flathead screwdriver, inserting it into the seam.
-
Locate and Replace the Battery: Open the fob to reveal the battery. Remove the old CR2025 battery, remembering its orientation. Install the new CR2025 battery with the correct side facing up.
-
Reassemble the Key Fob: Press the two halves of the key fob firmly back together until they snap shut securely.
Replacing the Battery in a Subaru Legacy Key Fob with Exposed Metal Key and Buttons
Battery Type Required: CR1620
This older style Subaru Legacy key fob is characterized by its permanently visible metal key alongside the buttons. It involves an extra step due to an inner casing:
-
Open the Outer Key Fob Casing: Begin by opening the main, exterior casing of the key fob, similar to the rectangular and teardrop fobs. You can use your fingernail or a flathead screwdriver to carefully pry it apart at the seam.
-
Open the Inner Casing: Once the outer casing is open, you’ll notice a second, smaller inner casing containing the battery. This inner casing usually has small tabs or clips holding it together. Gently press these tabs to release and open the inner casing.
-
Replace the Battery: Inside the inner casing, you’ll find the CR1620 battery. Remove the old battery and replace it with a new CR1620, ensuring correct polarity (+ side up).
-
Reassemble Both Casings: Close the inner casing first, making sure it snaps together securely. Then, place the inner casing back into the outer casing and snap the outer casing shut.
What If Subaru Legacy Key Fob Battery Replacement Doesn’t Work?
In most cases, replacing the Subaru Legacy key fob battery will restore its functionality. However, if you’ve replaced the battery and your key fob still isn’t working, there might be another issue.
-
Key Fob Programming: Sometimes, after a battery change or for other reasons, your Subaru Legacy key fob might need to be reprogrammed to communicate with your vehicle. While some older Subaru models allowed for DIY key fob programming, newer models often require professional programming at a dealership.
-
Key Fob Damage or Failure: If your key fob has been damaged or is experiencing an internal malfunction, a battery replacement won’t solve the problem. In such cases, you may need to replace the entire key fob.
If you suspect your Subaru Legacy key fob requires reprogramming or replacement, it’s best to contact a certified Subaru dealership. They have the specialized equipment to diagnose key fob issues and provide the necessary services.
Get Professional Subaru Service When You Need It
While Subaru Legacy key fob battery replacement is a simple DIY task, Subaru North Orlando is always ready to assist with any of your Subaru service needs. If you prefer professional assistance with your key fob battery, need key fob programming, or require other car maintenance or repairs, our expert technicians are here to help. [Schedule your service appointment online](Schedule Service) today and experience top-notch Subaru service.
