Is your Subaru key fob starting to feel unresponsive? Or maybe the range isn’t what it used to be? One of the most common culprits is a low or dead battery. Fortunately, changing the battery in your Subaru key fob is a straightforward process you can easily do yourself, saving you time and a trip to the dealership. This guide will walk you through the steps to replace your Subaru key fob battery and offer some tips to maximize battery life.
Recognizing When to Replace Your Key Fob Battery
Before you start taking apart your key fob, it’s important to confirm that a low battery is indeed the issue. Here are some telltale signs that your Subaru key fob battery might be nearing the end of its life:
- Reduced Range: You need to be closer to your Subaru than usual for the key fob to lock or unlock the doors.
- Inconsistent Operation: Sometimes the buttons work, and sometimes they don’t, requiring multiple presses.
- Dashboard Warning Light: Some Subaru models display a warning light on the dashboard indicating a low key fob battery. Check your owner’s manual for specific details on warning indicators.
- Key Fob Doesn’t Respond: In the most obvious case, your key fob might completely stop responding, leaving you unable to remotely lock, unlock, or start your vehicle (in models with push-button start).
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, replacing your key fob battery is a logical first step.
Gathering the Right Tools and Battery
Changing your Subaru key fob battery is a simple DIY task that requires minimal tools. Here’s what you’ll typically need:
- New Battery: Most Subaru key fobs use a CR2032 3V lithium coin battery. It’s always a good idea to double-check your owner’s manual to confirm the exact battery type for your specific Subaru model and key fob. Opt for reputable brands like Energizer or Duracell for reliable performance.
- Small Flathead Screwdriver or Pry Tool: You’ll need this to carefully open the key fob case. A small eyeglass screwdriver or a plastic pry tool designed for electronics works well to avoid scratching the fob.
- Soft Cloth (Optional): Using a soft cloth can help protect the key fob surface from scratches during the battery replacement process.
Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Subaru Key Fob Battery
Now, let’s get to the battery replacement. While slight variations might exist between different Subaru models and key fob designs, the general process is very similar. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
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Locate the Emergency Key (if applicable): Many Subaru key fobs have a mechanical emergency key hidden inside. Locate the release button or latch on your key fob. Press or slide it to remove the emergency key. Set the emergency key aside in a safe place.
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Open the Key Fob Casing: Examine your key fob for a small slot or notch. This is where you’ll insert your flathead screwdriver or pry tool. Carefully insert the tip of your tool into the slot and gently twist or pry to separate the two halves of the key fob casing. Take your time and avoid using excessive force to prevent damage to the plastic.
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Identify the Battery: Once the key fob is open, you’ll see the circuit board and the battery. The battery is usually a round, silver coin-shaped battery held in place by small clips or a retaining bracket.
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Remove the Old Battery: Note the orientation of the old battery (usually the positive (+) side facing up). Use your fingertip or the small flathead screwdriver to gently pry the old battery out from under the retaining clips or bracket.
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Install the New Battery: Take your new CR2032 battery and install it in the same orientation as the old one. Ensure the positive (+) side is facing upwards. Press the battery firmly into place until it’s securely held by the clips or bracket.
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Reassemble the Key Fob: Carefully align the two halves of the key fob casing and press them firmly together until they snap back into place. Ensure the casing is completely closed and there are no gaps.
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Test Your Key Fob: Once reassembled, test your key fob by pressing the lock and unlock buttons to ensure it’s working correctly. You should notice an immediate improvement in range and responsiveness. If your Subaru has push-button start, also test starting the vehicle with the fob.
This image would ideally show a Subaru key fob opened, with the CR2032 battery visible.
Alt text: Opened Subaru key fob showing the internal components and the location of the CR2032 battery.
This image would ideally show a close-up of someone replacing the CR2032 battery in a key fob.
Alt text: Close-up of replacing a CR2032 battery in a Subaru key fob, ensuring correct polarity.
Tips to Extend Your Subaru Key Fob Battery Life
While changing your Subaru key fob battery is easy, you can also take steps to prolong its life. Here are a few tips based on common factors that can drain key fob batteries:
- Battery Quality: As mentioned in forums, not all CR2032 batteries are created equal. Opting for reputable brands like Energizer or Duracell can ensure better quality control and potentially longer battery life compared to generic brands. Consider checking the battery’s voltage with a battery tester before installation, although this is optional.
- Avoid Excessive Button Pressing: Habitually pressing the lock/unlock buttons repeatedly, especially from a distance, can unnecessarily drain the battery. If your Subaru has touch-sensitive locking or proximity unlocking features, consider using them to minimize button presses. For example, using the touch sensor on the door handle to lock the car instead of the key fob button when you are near the vehicle.
- Key Fob Proximity to Vehicle: Anecdotal evidence suggests that keeping your key fob too close to your Subaru when parked at home might contribute to battery drain in both the fob and the car. Try storing your key fob further away from your vehicle when you’re at home. Alternatively, consider using a Faraday bag or box to store your key fob, which blocks signals and prevents communication between the fob and the vehicle when not in use. This is especially relevant for keyless entry systems that are constantly communicating with the fob.
Conclusion
Changing your Subaru key fob battery is a simple and cost-effective maintenance task you can easily handle yourself. By following these steps and tips, you can ensure your key fob remains reliable and responsive, avoiding the frustration of a dead battery at an inconvenient time. Remember to always consult your Subaru owner’s manual for specific instructions and battery type recommendations for your vehicle.
