It’s a common frustration for Subaru owners: the dreaded dead key fob battery. Several factors can impact how long your Subaru key fob battery lasts, and understanding these can save you from unexpected lockouts. Let’s explore the primary reasons behind a shortened key fob battery life.
Firstly, battery quality plays a significant role. Not all CR2032 coin batteries are created equal. Even within reputable brands, occasional manufacturing defects can lead to a battery underperforming. If you have a battery tester, it’s a worthwhile step to check a new battery before installing it in your fob. This simple check can prevent future headaches, although remember, you can still gain entry to your Subaru and start the vehicle even with a fob that seems dead. It’s also crucial to regularly check your emergency mechanical key to ensure it works correctly as a backup. For reliable replacements, established brands like Energizer or Duracell are generally consistent in quality. While Panasonic batteries are also an option, ensure you are sourcing genuine ones, especially when ordering online.
Secondly, your usage habits significantly affect battery drain. Do you frequently press the lock and unlock buttons multiple times as you approach or leave your Subaru? This common habit, driven by impatience or simply wanting to be sure, accelerates battery discharge. A smarter approach is to utilize your Subaru’s touch-enabled locking and proximity unlocking features. These features are designed to minimize unnecessary battery usage. If you find yourself compulsively checking if your car is locked after walking away, consider using the MySubaru or Starlink app to confirm, rather than repeatedly pressing the fob buttons.
Thirdly, the proximity of your key fob to your vehicle can impact battery life. Evidence suggests that storing your smart fob too close to your Subaru can lead to battery drain in both the vehicle and the fob itself. To prevent this, keep your key fob at a distance from your car when at home, allowing your vehicle to fully enter its “sleep” mode. Alternatively, consider storing your fob in a Faraday cage or a similar shielded container when you are at home. This blocks signals and prevents unnecessary communication between the fob and the vehicle, preserving battery life in the long run.
By understanding these factors – battery quality, usage patterns, and fob proximity – you can better manage and extend the life of your Subaru key fob battery, minimizing the chances of inconvenient surprises.
