It’s a familiar scenario for many Subaru owners: you reach for your key fob to unlock your car, and nothing happens. Or perhaps you’ve noticed the range of your remote decreasing, requiring you to be closer and closer to your vehicle for it to respond. These are common signs that the battery in your Subaru key fob is running low and needs replacing. Fortunately, changing the battery in a Subaru key fob is a straightforward process that you can easily do yourself at home, saving you time and a trip to the dealership.
Before you begin, it’s important to understand why key fob batteries need replacement and what factors can affect their lifespan. Like any battery, the coin cell battery inside your Subaru key fob, typically a CR2032, has a limited lifespan. The quality of the battery itself plays a significant role; not all CR2032 batteries are created equal. Opting for reputable brands like Energizer or Duracell can often provide more consistent performance compared to cheaper, unbranded alternatives.
Your usage habits also impact battery life. If you frequently press the lock and unlock buttons multiple times, especially from a distance, you’re likely using up battery power more quickly. Modern Subaru vehicles come equipped with touch-sensitive locking and proximity unlocking features, which can help conserve battery life. Utilizing these features can be a simple way to extend the time between battery replacements. For instance, instead of repeatedly pressing the lock button as you walk away, simply touching the door handle lock sensor can secure your vehicle.
Another often-overlooked factor is the proximity of your key fob to your vehicle when you’re at home. If you keep your key fob too close to your Subaru, it can lead to both the car’s battery and the key fob battery draining faster. To avoid this, store your key fob away from your vehicle when you’re not using it. Some Subaru owners even recommend using a Faraday cage-type container to store their key fobs at home, effectively blocking signals and preventing unnecessary battery drain.
Now, let’s get to the step-by-step process of changing the battery in your Subaru key fob. While specific models may have slight variations, the general procedure is quite similar across most Subaru vehicles.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your Subaru Key Fob Battery
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Identify Your Key Fob Type: Subaru key fobs come in various designs depending on the model and year of your vehicle. Examine your key fob to understand how it opens. Many models have a small release button or a notch that you’ll need to use to access the battery compartment.
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Gather the Right Tools and Battery: You’ll need a new CR2032 coin cell battery. You might also need a small flathead screwdriver or a similar thin, flat tool to help open the key fob case, depending on your model.
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Open the Key Fob Casing: Locate the release button or notch on your key fob. If there’s a release button, press and hold it while gently pulling apart the two halves of the key fob. If there’s a notch, insert the tip of your small screwdriver or prying tool into the notch and gently twist to separate the casing. Be careful not to use excessive force, as you could damage the plastic casing.
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Remove the Old Battery: Once the key fob is open, you’ll see the CR2032 battery. Take note of the battery’s orientation (usually the positive side facing up). Gently pry out the old battery. A small screwdriver can be helpful here, but be careful not to scratch the battery contacts or the surrounding components.
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Insert the New Battery: Place the new CR2032 battery into the compartment, ensuring the correct orientation (positive side facing up, matching the orientation of the old battery). Push down gently until the battery is securely in place.
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Close the Key Fob Casing: Carefully align the two halves of the key fob casing and press them back together until they snap securely shut. Ensure there are no gaps and that the casing is properly closed.
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Test Your Key Fob: Press the lock or unlock button on your key fob to test if the new battery is working. The vehicle should respond as expected.
Tips for Battery Longevity and Key Fob Maintenance:
- Use Quality Batteries: Opt for reputable brands like Energizer or Duracell for longer-lasting performance.
- Avoid Excessive Button Pressing: Utilize your Subaru’s touch-sensitive locking and proximity unlocking features to minimize unnecessary battery usage.
- Store Key Fob Away from Vehicle: Keep your key fob at a distance from your car when at home to prevent signal drain.
- Check Your Emergency Key: Regularly ensure your mechanical emergency key works properly as a backup in case of key fob issues.
Changing your Subaru key fob battery is a simple maintenance task that can save you inconvenience and potential costs. By following these steps and adopting good usage habits, you can ensure your key fob remains reliable and functional for years to come.
