It’s a common moment of frustration for Subaru owners: you reach for your key fob, press a button, and nothing happens. Often, the culprit is a dead battery. While unexpected key fob issues can be unsettling, especially if you’re unfamiliar with how to handle them, replacing the battery in your Subaru key fob is a straightforward process you can easily do yourself. This guide will walk you through understanding your Subaru key fob battery, why they might drain quickly, and, most importantly, how to replace it effectively, saving you time and potential dealership costs.
Understanding Subaru Key Fob Batteries and Their Lifespan
Subaru key fobs typically use a CR2032 coin cell battery. These batteries are known for their long life, but several factors can influence how long your key fob battery lasts. Battery quality is a significant factor; not all CR2032 batteries are created equal. Sometimes, even batteries from reputable brands can be faulty. If you have a battery tester, it’s wise to check a new battery before installing it in your fob to ensure it’s properly charged. For reliable replacements, consider reputable brands like Energizer or Duracell. While Panasonic batteries are also a good option, ensure you are purchasing genuine ones, especially when ordering online.
Another factor impacting battery life is usage habits. Do you frequently press the lock/unlock buttons multiple times when approaching or leaving your Subaru? This habit can significantly drain your key fob battery faster than normal. Modern Subaru vehicles come equipped with touch-sensitive locking and proximity unlocking features. Utilizing these features can help conserve battery life by reducing unnecessary button presses. For those moments when you might instinctively reach for the fob after stepping away, consider using the MySubaru or Starlink app to lock your vehicle instead.
Lastly, the proximity of your key fob to your Subaru can also affect battery drain. Anecdotal evidence suggests that keeping your key fob too close to your vehicle might cause both the car’s battery and the key fob battery to drain more quickly. To prevent this, store your key fob away from your vehicle when at home. Alternatively, using a Faraday cage or valet box can effectively block signals and prevent unnecessary battery drain when the fob is not in use.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your Subaru Key Fob Battery
Replacing the battery in your Subaru key fob is a simple task that requires minimal tools. Here’s a general guide; however, always refer to your Subaru owner’s manual for the most accurate instructions specific to your model, as slight variations may exist.
Tools You’ll Need:
- A new CR2032 battery
- A small flathead screwdriver or a similar tool to pry open the fob
Steps to Replace the Battery:
- Locate the notch to open the Fob: Examine your Subaru key fob for a small notch or seam. This is typically located on the side or bottom of the fob.
- Carefully Pry Open the Fob: Insert the tip of your flathead screwdriver into the notch. Gently twist or pry to separate the two halves of the key fob casing. Be careful not to use excessive force, which could damage the plastic casing.
- Identify the Battery Location: Once open, you’ll see the circuit board and the CR2032 battery. Note the orientation of the battery (+ side up or down) before removal.
- Remove the Old Battery: You may be able to gently pry the old battery out with your fingertip. If it’s snug, use the flathead screwdriver to carefully lever it out.
- Insert the New Battery: Place the new CR2032 battery into the battery compartment, ensuring it’s in the correct orientation (matching the polarity of the old battery). You should feel it snap into place.
- Reassemble the Key Fob: Align the two halves of the key fob casing and press them firmly together until they snap back into place. Ensure the fob is securely closed.
- Test the Key Fob: Test the buttons on your key fob to ensure it’s working correctly. Lock and unlock your Subaru to confirm the new battery is functioning as expected.
By following these steps, you can easily replace your Subaru key fob battery and regain full functionality of your remote. Keeping spare CR2032 batteries on hand can also be a proactive measure to avoid unexpected key fob battery failures.
