It’s a common scenario for 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 classic signs that your Subaru key fob battery is likely nearing the end of its life and needs replacing. Don’t worry, 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.
Understanding why your Subaru key fob battery dies and how to replace it can save you from unexpected lockouts and ensure your key fob works reliably. Let’s dive into the details of maintaining your Subaru key fob battery.
Understanding Your Subaru Key Fob Battery
Most Subaru key fobs are powered by a small, circular CR2032 coin battery. These batteries are widely available at drugstores, supermarkets, and online retailers. The lifespan of your key fob battery can vary depending on a few factors.
Factors Affecting Battery Life
Several elements can influence how long your Subaru key fob battery lasts:
- Battery Quality: The quality control of CR2032 batteries can vary. Occasionally, a battery might be faulty right out of the package. Opting for reputable brands like Energizer or Duracell can increase the likelihood of a longer-lasting battery. If you have a battery tester, it’s a good idea to check the new battery’s voltage before installing it in your fob to ensure it’s in good condition.
- Usage Habits: Do you frequently press the lock/unlock buttons on your key fob multiple times? Habits like repeatedly pressing buttons, even when approaching or leaving your vehicle, can drain the battery faster. Utilizing features like touch-enabled locking and proximity unlocking, if your Subaru model is equipped with them, can help conserve battery life.
- Proximity to Vehicle: Keeping your key fob too close to your Subaru when you’re at home may also contribute to faster battery drain. There’s evidence suggesting that continuous communication between the fob and the vehicle when in close proximity can deplete both the car’s battery and the key fob battery more quickly. Storing your key fob further away from your vehicle or using a Faraday cage-type box can mitigate this issue.
Step-by-Step Guide: Changing Your Subaru Key Fob Battery
Changing your Subaru key fob battery is a simple task that requires minimal tools. Here’s a step-by-step guide to walk you through the process:
Tools You’ll Need
- A new CR2032 battery
- A small flathead screwdriver or a similar thin tool (like a key or plastic pry tool)
Opening the Key Fob
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Locate the notch: Examine your Subaru key fob for a small notch or seam. This is usually located on the side or bottom of the fob.
Alt Text: Close-up of a Subaru key fob showing the location of the notch used to open the casing.
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Insert the tool: Gently insert the flathead screwdriver or your chosen tool into the notch.
Alt Text: Image depicting a small screwdriver being inserted into the notch of a Subaru key fob to pry it open.
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Pry it open: Carefully twist or pry the tool to separate the two halves of the key fob casing. Take your time and avoid applying excessive force to prevent damage to the fob. The casing should snap open relatively easily.
Removing and Replacing the Battery
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Access the battery: Once the key fob is open, you’ll see the CR2032 battery. It’s usually held in place by small clips.
Alt Text: Interior view of an opened Subaru key fob, highlighting the location of the CR2032 battery inside.
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Remove the old battery: Gently pry the old battery out of its housing. You can use your fingertip or the small screwdriver to carefully lift it out. Take note of the battery’s orientation (+ side up or down) before removing it.
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Insert the new battery: Place the new CR2032 battery into the battery compartment, ensuring the correct orientation (usually the positive (+) side facing upwards). Press down gently until it clicks into place.
Closing the Key Fob
- Align the halves: Carefully align the two halves of the key fob casing.
- Snap it shut: Press the two halves firmly together until they snap back into place, ensuring the fob is securely closed.
Testing the Key Fob
- Test the buttons: Press the lock and unlock buttons on your key fob to ensure they are working correctly. The car should respond as expected.
- Check the range: Walk a reasonable distance from your Subaru and test the key fob’s range to ensure it has returned to its normal operating distance.
Conclusion
Changing your Subaru key fob battery is a simple maintenance task that any owner can perform. By understanding the factors that affect battery life and following these easy steps, you can keep your key fob working reliably and avoid the frustration of a dead battery. Regularly checking your key fob’s performance and replacing the battery when needed will ensure you always have easy access to your Subaru. If you encounter any difficulties or are unsure about any step, consult your Subaru owner’s manual or contact your local Subaru dealer for assistance.
