Experiencing a non-responsive key fob for your Subaru Outback can be incredibly frustrating, especially when you’re in a hurry. If your Subaru Outback key fob is not working, don’t panic! In many cases, the solution is simpler than you might think and doesn’t require a trip to the dealership right away. This guide, brought to you by the auto experts at keyfobx.com, will walk you through the most common reasons why your Subaru Outback key fob might fail and provide step-by-step instructions on how to troubleshoot and fix the issue yourself. From simple battery replacements to reprogramming tips, we’ll help you regain access to your vehicle quickly and efficiently.
Understanding Why Your Subaru Outback Key Fob Isn’t Responding
Before assuming the worst, it’s important to understand the common culprits behind a malfunctioning key fob. Knowing the potential causes can save you time and money in the long run. Here are the primary reasons why your Subaru Outback key fob may have stopped working:
Dead Battery: The Most Frequent Culprit
Just like any battery-powered device, your Subaru Outback key fob relies on a battery to function. Over time, this battery will naturally deplete, leading to a weak or non-existent signal. This is by far the most common reason for a key fob malfunction. Fortunately, Subaru key fob battery replacement is a straightforward process you can often handle at home.
Key Fob Reprogramming Issues
Sometimes, even with a fresh battery, your Subaru Outback key fob might still not work. This could be due to a loss of synchronization between the key fob and your vehicle’s computer system. Reprogramming the key fob can re-establish this connection and restore functionality.
Physical Damage to the Key Fob
Accidental drops, exposure to moisture, or general wear and tear can damage the internal components of your key fob. If your key fob has experienced any physical trauma, it’s possible that internal damage is preventing it from working correctly.
Step-by-Step Guide to Subaru Outback Key Fob Battery Replacement
Replacing the battery in your Subaru Outback key fob is usually the first and easiest solution to try. The process is quite simple, but the specific battery type and opening method can vary depending on the shape of your key fob. Let’s identify your key fob type and then proceed with the battery replacement.
Identifying Your Subaru Outback Key Fob Type
Subaru has used a few different key fob designs over the years. Knowing which type you have is crucial for selecting the correct replacement battery and following the right steps. Refer to your owner’s manual if you are unsure, or compare your key fob to the descriptions below:
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Bulging Rectangle Shape: This is common in newer Subaru Outback models. It’s characterized by its rectangular shape with a slight bulge and typically uses a CR2032 battery.
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Teardrop Shape: An older design, the teardrop-shaped fob is, as the name suggests, shaped like a teardrop. This type usually requires a CR2025 battery.
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Exposed Metal Key with Buttons: This is the oldest electronic key fob style, where the metal key is always visible. This fob contains a smaller interior casing and uses a CR 1620 battery.
Once you’ve identified your key fob type and obtained the correct replacement battery, follow the specific instructions below for your fob style.
Subaru Outback Key Fob Battery Replacement – Bulging Rectangle Shape (CR2032 Battery)
This procedure applies to the bulging rectangle-shaped key fob, which requires a CR2032 battery.
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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 to release and remove the metal emergency key.
Alt text: Close up of the back of a bulging rectangular Subaru key fob showing the silver tab used to release the emergency key.
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Pry Open the Fob: After removing the emergency key, carefully pry open the key fob casing. You can use a flathead screwdriver inserted into the seam between the two halves to gently separate them. Be cautious not to apply excessive force to avoid damaging the plastic.
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Locate the Battery: Once open, you’ll see the transmitter circuit board and the flat, round key fob battery. The battery might be located either above or below the circuit board depending on how the fob opens.
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Replace the Battery: Gently release the old battery from its compartment and remove it. Install the new CR2032 battery, ensuring the correct side (usually marked with a “+” symbol) is facing upwards. Minimize touching the new battery with your fingers; handle it by the edges if possible, or use gloves to prevent transferring oils.
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Reassemble the Fob: Carefully snap the two halves of the key fob casing back together until they are securely closed. Re-insert the metal emergency key until it clicks into place.
Subaru Outback Key Fob Battery Replacement – Teardrop Shape (CR2025 Battery)
For the teardrop-shaped Subaru key fob, which requires a CR2025 battery, the process is very similar, but you’ll skip the emergency key removal step as this older fob design doesn’t have one.
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Pry Open the Fob: Carefully pry open the teardrop-shaped key fob using a flathead screwdriver or a similar tool to separate the two halves of the casing along the seam.
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Locate and Replace Battery: Identify the CR2025 battery inside the fob. Remove the old battery and replace it with a new one, ensuring correct polarity (+ side up).
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Reassemble the Fob: Snap the two halves of the key fob casing firmly back together.
Subaru Outback Key Fob Battery Replacement – Exposed Metal Key with Buttons (CR 1620 Battery)
This older style key fob with an exposed metal key requires a slightly different approach because it has two casings. It uses a CR 1620 battery.
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Open the Exterior Casing: Open the main, exterior casing of the fob. This process is similar to the bulging rectangle fob – you may need to pry it open carefully using a flathead screwdriver.
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Open the Interior Casing: Once the exterior casing is open, you’ll find a second, smaller interior casing. This inner casing usually has small tabs that you need to press to release and open it. Examine the interior casing closely to locate these tabs.
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Replace the Battery: Inside the inner casing, you’ll find the CR 1620 battery. Remove the old battery and replace it with a new one, ensuring the correct orientation.
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Reassemble Both Casings: Close the interior casing first, ensuring it snaps shut securely. Then, place the interior casing back into the exterior casing and snap the exterior casing closed.
How to Reprogram Your Subaru Outback Key Fob (DIY Guide)
If replacing the battery doesn’t solve the issue, or if you’ve replaced the entire key fob, you may need to reprogram it to work with your Subaru Outback. Keep in mind that for newer Subaru models with the bulging rectangular fob, programming often needs to be done at the dealership for security reasons. However, for older models, you might be able to attempt a DIY reprogramming process.
Note: DIY reprogramming success can vary. If you are uncomfortable with these steps, or if they do not work, it’s best to consult with a Subaru dealership.
Here’s a general guide to try reprogramming older Subaru Outback key fobs:
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Open the Key Fob: Open your key fob to access the transmitter circuit board.
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Identify the 8-Digit Number: Locate the first of the two 8-digit numbers printed on the circuit board. Write this number down for quick reference. Reassemble the key fob.
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Prepare Your Vehicle: Ensure your Subaru Outback is turned off, all doors and windows are closed. Sit in the driver’s seat.
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Unlock Driver’s Door: Open the driver’s side door, then use the door switch to unlock all doors.
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Enter Accessory Mode Repeatedly: Insert the key into the ignition. Turn the key to the “Accessory” mode (where the lights come on, but the engine does not start) and then back to “Off.” Repeat this “Accessory-Off” cycle ten times in quick succession.
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Listen for the Chime: If the process is successful so far, your vehicle should chime.
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Open and Close Driver’s Door: Open and close the driver’s side door once. The vehicle should chime again.
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Enter the 8-Digit Number Sequence: You now have approximately 45 seconds to complete the following steps. Using the 8-digit number you wrote down:
- For each digit in the number, press the “Lock” button on the key fob that many times, followed by pressing the “Unlock” button once. For example, if the first digit is ‘4’, press “Lock” four times, then “Unlock” once. Repeat this for each digit of the 8-digit number.
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Confirmation Chime and Locks: If the sequence is entered correctly, your vehicle should chime again, and the door locks should engage.
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Test and Finalize: Repeat the digit sequence process several times to ensure successful programming. Then, open and close the driver’s side door, press the “Lock” button on the fob. Remove the key from the ignition. You should hear a final chime. Open and close the door again. After about five seconds, test your key fob to see if it’s working.
When to Seek Professional Help for Your Subaru Outback Key Fob
If you’ve tried replacing the battery and attempting to reprogram your Subaru Outback key fob, and it’s still not functioning, it’s time to seek professional assistance. Here are scenarios where dealership service is recommended:
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Newer Subaru Outback Models: As mentioned, programming for newer key fobs often requires specialized equipment available at Subaru dealerships.
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Persistent Key Fob Issues: If battery replacement and reprogramming attempts fail, there might be a more complex issue with the key fob itself or your vehicle’s receiver system.
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Suspected Key Fob Damage: If your key fob has been physically damaged, internal components may be broken, requiring professional repair or replacement.
Subaru Dealership Services
Your local Subaru dealership, like Subaru North Orlando, is equipped to handle all key fob issues. Dealership services include:
- Key Fob Battery Replacement: While you can do it yourself, dealerships offer convenient battery replacement services.
- Key Fob Reprogramming: Technicians can professionally reprogram your existing or new key fob to work with your Subaru Outback.
- Key Fob Replacement: If your key fob is damaged beyond repair, dealerships can order and program a new, genuine Subaru key fob.
Schedule service with your Subaru dealer if you need professional assistance with your key fob.
Conclusion: Getting Your Subaru Outback Key Fob Working Again
A non-working Subaru Outback key fob can be a minor inconvenience or a major headache. Fortunately, by following these troubleshooting steps, you can often resolve the issue yourself. Start with the simplest solution – replacing the battery – and then attempt reprogramming if necessary. If all else fails, don’t hesitate to contact your trusted Subaru dealer for expert service. With the right approach, you’ll be back to conveniently accessing your Subaru Outback in no time.
