Navigating the features of your Subaru Outback key fob can sometimes feel like unlocking a secret code. Many owners wonder about the intricacies of Subaru’s keyless entry system, particularly what happens when the key fob is inside the vehicle. Let’s dive into the specifics of your Subaru Outback key fob, addressing common questions and providing helpful tips to enhance your user experience and security.
Key Fob Location Sensitivity: How It Works
Subaru key fobs are designed with a notable emphasis on location. This isn’t a glitch; it’s a security feature. To unlock your Subaru Outback using the proximity system, the key fob needs to be very close to the specific door or tailgate you intend to open. Simply having the fob inside the car won’t allow you to unlock the doors by touching the door handle. The lines on the door handle are exclusively for locking the car, and they only function when a key fob is detected outside the vehicle and near these lines. Attempting to lock the car by touching these lines with an active fob inside will only result in a warning tone, alerting you to the fob’s presence inside.
Can You Lock Your Subaru Outback with the Key Fob Inside?
The short answer is yes, but not in every situation. You cannot simply lock your Subaru by touching the door handle lines or using the interior door lock switches if an active key fob is inside the car. However, there are methods to securely lock your vehicle with a fob inside:
- Putting the Fob to Sleep: Subaru fobs can be put into a “sleep” or deactivated mode. Once deactivated, you can lock the car using the door handle lines or interior lock switches, even with the sleeping fob inside.
- Using a Second Key Fob: If you have a second key fob, you can use it to lock the car from the outside, even with the first fob inside. Pressing the lock button on the second fob will secure your Outback.
It’s crucial to understand that leaving an active key fob inside your Subaru Outback is similar to leaving your keys in the ignition in older vehicles. While convenient for quick stops, it can pose a security risk if the vehicle is left unlocked.
Starting Your Subaru Outback with the Key Fob Inside
Similar to unlocking and locking, starting your Subaru Outback is also dependent on the key fob’s location. Leaving the fob just anywhere inside the car isn’t enough to start the engine. The key fob needs to be in the front part of the vehicle, close to the ignition button.
- Front vs. Back: If the key fob is in the front seat area, including your pocket or a bag on the front seat, you will likely be able to start the car. However, if the fob is in the back seat or cargo area, starting the vehicle may not be possible.
- Obstruction Matters: The thickness of any bag or material surrounding the fob can also affect signal strength. A bare fob is more likely to be detected than one buried deep within a thick backpack or purse. Experiment to understand your vehicle’s sensitivity.
Essential Tips for Subaru Outback Key Fob Users
To maximize security and convenience with your Subaru Outback key fob, consider these practical tips:
- Program the Tailgate Pin Code: This feature is invaluable when you need to access the rear cargo area without your key fob. It’s also a useful backup if you’ve intentionally locked a fob inside the car.
- Strategic Fob Placement: If you must lock a key fob inside your vehicle, avoid leaving it in the front seat or center console. Placing it in the back seat or cargo area adds an extra layer of security, making it less accessible to potential thieves should they gain entry.
- Practice with the Metal Key: Familiarize yourself with the mechanical metal key housed within your key fob. Practice unlocking the driver’s door with it. Be aware that using the metal key to unlock the door will trigger the alarm. Practice locking and unlocking with the metal key while the car is unlocked initially to avoid accidental alarms during your learning process.
Experiment with your Subaru Outback key fob to fully grasp its nuances. Understanding these features and limitations will not only enhance your convenience but also contribute to the security of your vehicle. Subaru’s system, while location-sensitive, is designed to offer a balance of user-friendliness and theft prevention.
