It’s a common scenario for Subaru owners: you approach your vehicle, reach for the door handle, and nothing happens. Or perhaps you notice the range of your key fob diminishing, requiring you to be closer and closer to your car for it to lock or unlock. These are classic signs that the battery in your Subaru key fob is getting weak and it might be time for a change. Don’t worry, replacing the battery in your Subaru key fob is a straightforward process you can easily do yourself. This guide will walk you through the steps and offer some helpful tips to keep your key fob working reliably.
Recognizing When to Change Your Key Fob Battery
Before we dive into the battery replacement, let’s identify the telltale signs that your Subaru key fob battery is nearing the end of its life:
- Reduced Range: You need to be significantly closer to your Subaru than usual for the key fob to function.
- Intermittent Operation: The buttons on your key fob become less responsive, sometimes requiring multiple presses.
- Dashboard Warning Light: Some Subaru models display a low key fob battery warning light on the dashboard.
- Complete Failure: In the most obvious case, your key fob simply stops working altogether.
If you’re experiencing any of these issues, it’s a good indication that a battery replacement is in order.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your Subaru Key Fob Battery
Changing the battery in your Subaru key fob is a simple DIY task that requires minimal tools and time. Here’s how to do it:
What You’ll Need
- New Battery: You’ll need a CR2032 3V coin cell battery. This is a widely available and inexpensive battery that you can find at most drugstores, supermarkets, and online retailers. It’s always a good idea to have a spare CR2032 battery on hand.
- Small Flathead Screwdriver or Key Fob Tool: A small flathead screwdriver or a specialized plastic key fob opening tool will be needed to gently pry open the key fob casing. A thin bladed knife can also work carefully.
- Soft Cloth (Optional): To protect the key fob surface from scratches while prying it open.
Opening the Key Fob
- Locate the Notch: Examine your Subaru key fob closely. You should find a small notch or slot on the side or bottom of the key fob casing. This is where you will insert your flathead screwdriver or key fob tool.
- Insert and Twist: Carefully insert the tip of your flathead screwdriver or tool into the notch. Gently twist the screwdriver or tool to pry the key fob casing open. You may hear a slight click as the casing begins to separate.
- Separate the Casing: Once you have created a small opening, carefully separate the two halves of the key fob casing by hand. Avoid using excessive force to prevent damage to the casing.
Replacing the Battery
- Identify Battery Location: With the key fob casing open, you’ll see the CR2032 battery. Note the orientation of the battery (positive side up or down) before removing it.
- Remove the Old Battery: Gently pry out the old battery. You can use your fingertip or the tip of the screwdriver to carefully lift the battery out of its compartment.
- Insert the New Battery: Place the new CR2032 battery into the compartment, ensuring that it is oriented correctly (matching the orientation of the old battery). Push down gently to ensure it is securely seated.
Closing the Key Fob
- Align the Casings: Carefully align the two halves of the key fob casing.
- Press Together: Press the two halves of the casing firmly together until they snap securely back into place. You should hear a click indicating that the casing is properly closed.
- Test the Key Fob: Test the key fob buttons to ensure they are working correctly. Lock and unlock your Subaru to confirm the new battery is functioning as expected.
Tips to Extend Your Subaru Key Fob Battery Life
While CR2032 batteries are designed to last, here are a few tips to maximize the lifespan of your Subaru key fob battery:
- Battery Quality Matters: Opt for reputable brands like Energizer or Duracell for your replacement batteries. While generic batteries might be cheaper, they may not offer the same longevity or reliability.
- Avoid Excessive Button Pressing: Habitually pressing the lock/unlock buttons repeatedly, especially when you are already within range of your vehicle, can drain the battery faster. Utilize your Subaru’s touch-sensitive door handles or proximity unlocking features if available.
- Key Fob Proximity to Vehicle: Storing your key fob too close to your Subaru when at home may contribute to faster battery drain. Consider keeping your key fob further away from your vehicle when it’s parked, or use a Faraday box to block signals.
- Check Your Manual Key: As a preventative measure, ensure your manual emergency key works correctly in your Subaru’s door lock. This ensures you can still access your vehicle if your key fob battery completely dies unexpectedly.
By following these steps and tips, you can confidently change the battery in your Subaru key fob and ensure you’re never caught out with a dead remote. Regularly checking for the signs of a low battery and replacing it proactively will keep your key fob functioning reliably for years to come.
