It’s a familiar scenario for many Subaru owners: you reach for your key fob to unlock your car, and nothing happens. A dead key fob battery can be an unexpected inconvenience, but thankfully, replacing it is a straightforward process you can easily handle yourself. This guide will walk you through how to replace the battery in your Subaru key fob, ensuring you’re back on the road quickly and without needing a trip to the dealership for this minor issue.
Before you start, it’s helpful to understand why key fob batteries die and how to potentially prolong their life. Factors such as the quality of the CR2032 coin battery used in most fobs play a significant role. Not all batteries are created equal, and even reputable brands can occasionally have a dud. If you have a battery tester, it’s a good idea to check the new battery before installing it in your fob.
Another common factor affecting battery life is usage habits. If you frequently press the lock/unlock buttons repeatedly or from a distance, you’re likely draining the battery faster. Subaru vehicles often come equipped with touch-sensitive locking and proximity unlocking features. Utilizing these can help extend your key fob battery life. For those moments when you’re unsure if you locked your car, instead of repeatedly pressing the fob buttons, consider using the MySubaru/Starlink app to check and control your vehicle remotely.
Furthermore, keeping your key fob too close to your Subaru when at home can also contribute to faster battery drain for both the fob and the car itself. It’s recommended to store your fob further away from your vehicle or use a Faraday box to block signals when you’re at home, allowing both your car and key fob to fully “sleep” and conserve battery power.
Now, let’s get to the replacement process. While specific steps can vary slightly depending on your Subaru model and key fob style, the general method remains consistent. You’ll typically need a small flathead screwdriver and a new CR2032 battery.
To begin, locate the small notch or seam on your key fob. Using the flathead screwdriver, gently pry open the fob casing. Avoid using excessive force to prevent damage to the plastic. Once open, you’ll see the battery compartment. Take note of the battery’s orientation before removing the old battery. Carefully remove the old battery and replace it with the new CR2032 battery, ensuring the positive (+) side is facing the correct direction, usually upwards.
Subaru key fob with battery compartment open
After inserting the new battery, carefully snap the key fob casing back together until it’s securely closed. Test the fob to ensure it’s working correctly by locking and unlocking your Subaru. If you’re still experiencing issues, double-check the battery orientation and ensure the battery is new and has sufficient charge.
Replacing your Subaru key fob battery is a simple maintenance task that can save you time and money. By understanding the factors that affect battery life and following these steps, you can keep your key fob functioning reliably and avoid being caught off guard by a dead battery. Remember to check your emergency key as well to ensure it mechanically unlocks your door as a backup.
