As your trusted automotive repair experts at keyfobx.com, we understand the frustration of a dead key fob battery. It’s a common issue for Subaru owners, and knowing how to address it can save you time and inconvenience. While seemingly simple, several factors can influence your Subaru key fob battery life. Let’s dive into understanding these factors and what you should know about maintaining your key fob.
Several elements can impact how long your Subaru key fob battery lasts. Firstly, the quality control of the CR2032 coin battery itself plays a significant role. Not all batteries are created equal, and occasionally, a faulty battery might slip through quality checks. It’s always a good idea, if you have a battery tester, to quickly check a new battery before installing it in your fob. This can save you potential headaches down the road. We also recommend familiarizing yourself with your emergency key and ensuring it works correctly, as it can be a lifesaver when your fob battery dies unexpectedly. Knowing how to manually unlock your Subaru and start it with a dead fob is crucial for any owner.
Secondly, your usage habits significantly affect battery longevity. If you’re someone who frequently and repeatedly presses the lock/unlock buttons as you approach or leave your vehicle, you’re likely draining the battery faster. Consider utilizing your Subaru’s touch-enabled locking and proximity unlocking features to minimize battery drain. For those moments when you might impulsively check if your car is locked after walking away, the MySubaru/Starlink app offers a convenient alternative to physically pressing the fob buttons, further conserving battery life.
Lastly, anecdotal evidence across various car brands suggests that keeping your smart fob too close to your vehicle can lead to battery drain in both the vehicle and the fob. To prevent this, store your fob further away from your Subaru when you’re at home, allowing your car to fully “sleep.” Alternatively, consider using a Faraday cage or valet box to store your key fob at home, which blocks signals and prevents unnecessary battery drain. By understanding these factors, you can proactively manage your Subaru key fob battery life and avoid unexpected surprises.
