It’s a familiar frustration for many Subaru owners: you approach your vehicle, reach for the door handle, and… nothing. Your key fob isn’t working. While a dead key fob battery is a common culprit, understanding why it happens and how to address it is key to avoiding future headaches. Let’s dive into the factors affecting your Subaru key fob battery life and what you can do about it.
Battery Quality and Consistency
Not all 2032 coin batteries, the standard for most Subaru key fobs, are created equal. Quality control can vary, and even within reputable brands, a faulty battery can occasionally slip through. If you’re experiencing rapid battery drain, the battery itself might be the issue. Consider using a battery tester to check a new battery’s voltage before installation. For reliable performance, established brands like Energizer or Duracell are generally recommended. While Panasonic batteries are also a good option, ensure you are purchasing genuine ones, especially when ordering online.
Usage Habits and Battery Drain
Do you find yourself repeatedly pressing the lock and unlock buttons on your key fob as you approach or leave your Subaru? This habit, common among many drivers, actually contributes to faster battery depletion. Each button press sends a signal, consuming battery power. Subaru vehicles offer convenient alternatives like touch-sensitive locking and proximity unlocking features. Utilizing these can significantly reduce unnecessary battery usage. For those moments when you might instinctively reach for the fob again after walking away, the MySubaru/Starlink app provides remote locking and unlocking capabilities, further minimizing fob battery drain.
Proximity and Signal Drain
There’s growing evidence suggesting that keeping your key fob too close to your Subaru when parked can also lead to premature battery drain in both the fob and the vehicle itself. When the fob is in close proximity, constant communication attempts between the fob and the car can occur, even when the vehicle is off. To prevent this, store your key fob further away from your Subaru when at home, allowing both the car and fob to fully “sleep.” Alternatively, consider using a Faraday cage or valet tray to store your fob. These devices block electromagnetic fields, effectively preventing signal transmission and unnecessary battery drain.
Conclusion
Understanding these key factors can significantly extend the life of your Subaru key fob battery and prevent unexpected failures. By choosing quality batteries, being mindful of usage habits, and managing fob proximity to your vehicle, you can ensure your key fob remains reliable. It’s also a good practice to periodically check your emergency mechanical key to ensure it works correctly as a backup access method.
