Is your Subaru key fob acting up, or did you get a replacement that needs programming? For owners of newer Subaru models, programming must be handled by an authorized Subaru dealership service center. However, if you drive an older Subaru, you might be able to program a new key fob right in your own garage. This guide from our experts at Keyfobx.com will walk you through the process of how to program a Subaru key fob for older models.
Before we begin, it’s crucial to identify the type of key fob your Subaru uses. The key fobs that can be programmed at home are typically teardrop-shaped. If your key fob matches this description, you’re in luck! Follow the instructions below to learn how to program your Subaru key fob and get back on the road with a working remote.
Finding Your 8-Digit Subaru Key Fob Programming Code
The first step in programming your Subaru key fob is to locate the 8-digit code inside the fob. Here’s how to find it:
- Open the Key Fob Case: Carefully open the case of your Subaru key fob. This will give you access to the transmitter circuit board inside.
- Locate the 8-Digit Number: On the transmitter, you’ll see one or two sets of numbers, each containing 8 digits.
- Record the First 8-Digit Number: Write down the first 8-digit number series on a piece of paper or your phone. You’ll need this code later in the programming steps.
- Reassemble the Key Fob: Put the key fob case back together securely.
- Get into Your Subaru: Sit in the driver’s seat of your Subaru. Ensure all doors are completely closed, and the vehicle is turned off.
Alt text: Opening a teardrop Subaru key fob to access the circuit board and locate the 8-digit programming code needed for DIY programming.
Programming Your Subaru Key Fob: Entering the Code
Now that you have your 8-digit code, you’re ready to program your Subaru key fob. Follow these steps carefully and relatively quickly for successful programming:
- Open and Close Driver’s Door: Open the driver’s side door and use the door button control to unlock all doors. Then, close the driver’s side door.
- Insert Key into Ignition: Put your Subaru key into the ignition.
- Turn Key to ‘On’ and ‘Off’ Repeatedly: Turn the key to the ‘on’ position (where the electrical systems are activated, but the engine is not started). Then, quickly turn the key back to the ‘off’ position. Repeat this ‘on’ to ‘off’ sequence ten times in a row. Speed is important here, but focus on distinct turns.
- Listen for the Chime: After the tenth key turn, the instrument panel should emit an audible chime sound. This indicates the system is entering programming mode.
- Open and Close Driver’s Door Again: Open and then close the driver’s side door once more. You should hear a second chime, and the vehicle’s dome lights will likely flash.
- Programming Window: Once these steps are complete, you’ll have approximately 45 seconds to enter the 8-digit transmitter number into your Subaru’s computer. The chime will continue during this programming window.
Now, to input the 8-digit code using the door lock/unlock buttons:
- Locate Lock/Unlock Buttons: Find the lock and unlock buttons on the driver’s side door panel, usually situated next to the power window controls.
- Enter Each Digit: For each digit in your 8-digit code, press the ‘lock’ button the number of times corresponding to that digit. Immediately after pressing the ‘lock’ button(s), press the ‘unlock’ button once.
- Repeat for All Digits: Repeat step 2 for each of the eight digits in your code sequence.
- Confirmation Chime: After entering all eight digits, you should hear a chime from outside the vehicle. This confirms that the code sequence was received.
- Verify Code Entry: Repeat steps 2 and 3 again to confirm the number sequence was entered correctly. If successful, you will hear the vehicle’s locking system engage with a click.
- Test the Key Fob: Open and close the driver’s door. Press the ‘lock’ or ‘unlock’ button on your newly programmed key fob.
- Remove Key from Ignition: Take the key out of the ignition. You should hear another chime sound.
- Final Door Cycle and Test: Open and close the door one last time. Wait approximately five seconds, and then test your key fob by pressing the lock and unlock buttons. Your Subaru key fob should now be successfully programmed and working.
Alt text: Demonstration of using the door lock and unlock buttons on a Subaru to input the 8-digit programming code for the key fob.
How to Open a Subaru Key Fob & Replace a Dead Battery (Newer Models)
While the above programming steps apply to older, teardrop-shaped key fobs, newer Subaru models often use a rectangular key fob. These fobs typically cannot be programmed at home but you can replace the battery yourself when it runs out. Here’s how to perform a Subaru key fob battery replacement for newer, rectangular fobs:
Battery Replacement for Newer Subaru Key Fob (Rectangle Shape) – Requires a CR2032 Battery
- Remove the Metal Key: On the back of the rectangular key fob, locate a small silver tab or button. Push this tab to release and pop out the physical metal key.
- Insert Key/Screwdriver into Gap: Where you removed the metal key, you’ll see a small gap between the front and back halves of the key fob. Insert the tip of the metal key or a small flathead screwdriver into this gap.
- Open the Fob Cover: Gently twist the key or screwdriver to pry open the key fob cover. It should separate into two pieces.
- Locate the Battery: Inside the opened key fob, find the battery. It might be on the reverse side of the transmitter circuit board.
- Replace the Battery: Carefully remove the old battery. Take note of which side is facing up (+ side usually faces up). Place the new CR2032 battery in the same orientation.
- Reassemble the Key Fob: Carefully snap the two halves of the key fob case back together until they are securely closed. Re-insert the metal key back into its slot.
Alt text: Illustrated steps showing how to open a modern rectangular Subaru key fob and replace the CR2032 battery.
Need Further Assistance? Contact Our Parts Department
If you have any questions about how to program a Subaru key fob, or if you have a newer Subaru model and are unsure about key fob issues, don’t hesitate to contact our expert parts department at keyfobx.com. We are here to help with all your Subaru key fob replacement and programming inquiries.
We also stock a wide range of genuine OEM Subaru parts and accessories. You can easily order the parts you need online from the comfort of your home. Reach out to us today for assistance or to inquire about our current parts specials and ensure your Subaru is always running smoothly.
