Is your Subaru Outback key fob not working? Before you rush to expensive replacements, the most likely culprit is a dead battery. Fortunately, Subaru Outback key fob battery replacement is a straightforward process you can easily do yourself, saving time and money. This guide from KeyFobsPlus, your trusted auto repair experts, will walk you through everything you need to know to get your key fob working again.
Replacing your key fob battery is often the first and most effective solution when you experience issues like:
- Unresponsive buttons on your key fob.
- Reduced range when trying to lock or unlock your doors remotely.
- Intermittent failure of the key fob to operate.
Most Subaru Outback key fobs utilize common and inexpensive batteries, typically CR2032, CR1620, CR2025, or CR1632. These batteries are widely available online and at most retailers for under $6. To ensure you purchase the correct battery, you can use online battery finders by inputting your Subaru Outback’s year, make, and model.
Step-by-Step Guide to Subaru Outback Key Fob Battery Replacement
The process for replacing your Subaru Outback key fob battery is generally simple, but the exact method can vary slightly depending on whether you have a newer or older model. Here’s a general guide to help you through the process:
Tools You’ll Need:
- A new battery (check your owner’s manual or online resources for the specific type for your Subaru Outback year).
- For older models: A small flathead screwdriver or a thin pry tool.
- For newer models: The mechanical key that is hidden within your key fob.
Opening Your Subaru Outback Key Fob:
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Newer Subaru Outback Key Fobs: Locate the hidden mechanical key release. This is usually a small button or latch on the key fob. Press or slide the release to remove the mechanical key. Once removed, you’ll often find a slot where the key was housed. Insert the mechanical key into this slot. Gently twist or lever the key to pry the key fob casing open.
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Older Subaru Outback Key Fobs: Inspect the edges of your key fob for a small notch or seam. This is where you’ll need to pry the case open. Carefully insert a thin flathead screwdriver or plastic pry tool into the notch. Gently twist or pry to separate the two halves of the key fob casing. Be careful not to apply excessive force, as you could damage the plastic.
Battery Replacement Process:
- Access the Battery: Once the key fob casing is open, you will see the circuit board and the battery. The battery is usually held in place by small clips or within a battery compartment.
- Note Battery Orientation: Before removing the old battery, carefully observe how it is positioned in the case. Note the positive (+) and negative (-) sides. This is crucial for installing the new battery correctly.
- Remove the Old Battery: Gently remove the old battery. You might be able to pry it out with your fingertip, or you can use the tip of a small screwdriver to carefully lift it out.
- Install the New Battery: Place the new battery into the compartment, ensuring it is oriented in the same way as the old one (matching the positive and negative sides). Press down gently to make sure it is securely seated.
- Close the Key Fob Casing: Carefully align the two halves of the key fob casing and press them firmly back together until they snap closed. Ensure there are no gaps and the case is securely sealed.
Testing Your Subaru Outback Key Fob:
After replacing the battery and reassembling your key fob, test its functionality. Press the lock, unlock, and panic buttons to ensure they are working properly. If the key fob still doesn’t work, double-check the battery orientation and ensure the battery contacts are clean and making good contact. You can also try cleaning the contacts with a cotton swab and a bit of rubbing alcohol.
When Battery Replacement Isn’t Enough: Considering a Full Key Fob Replacement
While a battery replacement solves most key fob issues, there are times when a full Subaru Outback Key Fob Replacement is necessary. This might be the case if:
- Physical Damage: Your key fob is physically damaged, such as cracked casing, broken buttons, or water damage to the internal circuitry.
- Malfunctioning Circuitry: Even with a new battery, the key fob continues to malfunction, indicating a potential issue with the internal electronics.
- Lost or Stolen Key Fob: If your key fob is lost or stolen, replacement is obviously required.
If you’ve replaced the battery and are still experiencing problems, or if your key fob is damaged, it may be time to consider a full key fob replacement. KeyFobsPlus offers a wide selection of replacement key fobs for Subaru Outback models.
To see visual, step-by-step instructions, visit our YouTube page for Subaru Outback key fob battery replacement videos. Even if you don’t find a video for your exact model year, videos for similar Subaru key fobs can provide helpful guidance as the process is often very similar across different models and key fob types.
Remember, maintaining your key fob with a fresh battery is a simple way to ensure the convenience and security of your Subaru Outback.
