Having trouble starting your Subaru remotely with your key fob? It can be frustrating when your remote start system isn’t working as expected, especially on a cold morning or hot afternoon. Before you assume the worst or rush to the dealership, let’s walk through some simple troubleshooting steps to get your Subaru key fob remote start functioning again.
First, ensure that all the basic conditions for remote start are met. For your Subaru’s remote start to engage, several safety checks must be satisfied. This includes making sure that all doors, the hood, and the rear hatch are completely closed and securely locked. A slightly ajar door or hood can prevent the system from activating. Similarly, confirm that your vehicle is in “Park (P)”. Remote start systems are designed to only work when the car is safely parked to prevent accidental movement.
If you’ve confirmed these basic conditions are met, but your Subaru still won’t start with the key fob, pay attention to the feedback signals your car is giving you. When you attempt a remote start, observe the lights. How many times do they flash? Also, listen for the horn. How many times does it sound, if at all? These signals can provide valuable clues about why the remote start is failing. For example, a specific number of flashes or horn honks might indicate a particular issue, as detailed in your Subaru owner’s manual.
Are you using the correct key fob sequence? Most Subaru models require a specific sequence of button presses to initiate remote start. Typically, this involves pressing the “lock” button once, followed immediately by pressing and holding the remote start button (often a circular arrow) twice. Ensure you are following this sequence precisely and that you are holding the remote start button long enough for the signal to transmit.
If you are confident in your sequence, but still no luck, a simple system reset might be helpful. A surprisingly effective, albeit sometimes temporary, fix is to disconnect your Subaru’s battery. To do this safely, first ensure your car is turned off. Then, locate the negative battery terminal (usually marked with a black cap and a ‘-‘ sign) under the hood. Use a wrench to loosen and disconnect the negative cable. Wait for a few minutes to allow any residual charge to dissipate from the system. After waiting, reconnect the negative battery cable securely. Following this, manually start your Subaru once with the key in the ignition. After it’s running, turn it off and try the remote start sequence again with your key fob.
While disconnecting the battery might seem like a drastic step, it can sometimes resolve minor electronic glitches that might be preventing your remote start from working. It’s worth trying before considering more complex solutions or assuming a fault with the key fob itself.
If none of these troubleshooting steps work, it’s possible there might be a more technical issue, such as a faulty sensor related to the door, hood, or hatch closures, or a problem within the remote start system itself. In such cases, consulting your Subaru owner’s manual for more specific troubleshooting codes related to the light flashes or horn signals is advisable. Alternatively, scheduling a service appointment with a certified Subaru technician would be the next best step to diagnose and resolve the problem accurately.
Finally, keep in mind that if you suspect the issue might be with the key fob transmitter itself, Subaru owner’s manuals often describe procedures for registering new or replacement transmitters. This process typically involves a specific sequence of actions performed inside the vehicle. Consult your manual to see if transmitter registration is a step you can take, or if it requires professional assistance.
By systematically checking these potential issues, you can often pinpoint why your Subaru key fob remote start is not functioning and potentially resolve the problem yourself. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult your owner’s manual for detailed instructions specific to your Subaru model.
