Are you looking to program a Subaru key fob? Whether you need a replacement or want to program a new one, you might be wondering if it’s a task you can tackle yourself. For owners of newer Subaru vehicles, it’s typically required to visit an authorized Subaru dealership service center for the key fob programming process. However, if you drive an older Subaru model, you might be able to program your key fob at home. This guide from our experts at Keyfobx.com will walk you through the steps on how to program a Subaru key fob, making it easier for you in Lakeland Highlands or Winter Haven.
Identifying Your Subaru Key Fob Type for Programming
Before diving into the Subaru key fob programming process, it’s crucial to determine if your key fob is the type that allows for DIY programming. Generally, Subaru key fobs that can be programmed by the owner have a distinctive teardrop shape. If your key fob matches this description, you can proceed with the following instructions to program your Subaru key fob at home.
Locating Your 8-Digit Subaru Key Fob Programming Code
To initiate the programming, you’ll first need to find your Subaru key fob’s 8-digit programming code. Here’s how to locate it:
- Access the Transmitter Circuit Board: Carefully open the key fob casing to reveal the transmitter circuit board inside.
- Identify the 8-Digit Number: Look for one or two series of 8-digit numbers printed on the transmitter.
- Record the First 8-Digit Code: Write down the first 8-digit number series on a piece of paper for easy access during the programming steps.
- Reassemble the Key Fob: Put the key fob case back together securely.
- Prepare Your Subaru: Sit in the driver’s seat of your Subaru. Ensure all doors are completely closed and the vehicle is turned off.
Alt text: Opening a teardrop-shaped Subaru key fob to access the circuit board and locate the 8-digit programming code for DIY programming.
Step-by-Step Guide to Program Your Subaru Key Fob
Once you have your 8-digit code, follow these steps to program your Subaru key fob. It’s important to perform these actions relatively quickly for successful programming:
- Prepare the Driver’s Side Door: Open the driver’s side door and use the door button control to unlock all doors. Then, close the driver’s side door.
- Insert Key into Ignition: Place your Subaru key into the ignition switch.
- Cycle Ignition (10 Times): Turn the key to the “ON” position (where the electrical systems activate, but the engine does not start), then immediately turn it back to the “OFF” position. Repeat this cycle rapidly ten times in a row.
- Listen for the Chime (First Chime): After the tenth cycle, the instrument panel should emit an audible chime.
- Open and Close Driver’s Door: Open and then close the driver’s side door again. You should hear a second chime, and the vehicle’s dome lights will flash as confirmation.
- Enter Programming Mode: Upon completion of step 5, you will have approximately 45 seconds to input the 8-digit transmitter number into the car’s computer using the lock/unlock button on the driver’s side door. The chime will continue during this time.
Now, to program the 8-digit number sequence:
- Locate Lock/Unlock Buttons: Find the lock and unlock buttons on the driver’s side door panel, typically located next to the power window controls.
- Enter Each Digit: For each digit in your 8-digit code: press the “lock” button the number of times corresponding to the digit, and then press the “unlock” button once to proceed to the next digit. For example, if the first digit is ‘3’, press the lock button three times, then the unlock button once.
- Repeat for All Digits: Repeat step 2 for each of the eight digits in your programming code sequence.
- Confirmation Chime (External): After entering all eight digits, you should hear a chime sound from outside the vehicle. This confirms the code entry.
- Verify Code Entry: Repeat steps 2 and 3 to enter the number sequence a second time for verification. If successful, you will hear the vehicle’s locking system engage with a clicking sound.
- Test Key Fob: Open and close the driver’s door, then press the lock or unlock button on your newly programmed key fob.
- Remove Key from Ignition: Take the key out of the ignition. You will hear another chime.
- Final Door Cycle & Test: Open and close the driver’s door one more time. Wait for about five seconds, and then test the key fob buttons to ensure they are working correctly.
Alt text: Programming a Subaru key fob by pressing the lock button on the car door panel as part of the digit entry sequence.
Subaru Key Fob Battery Replacement for Newer Models
If you own a newer Subaru model, while programming might require a dealership visit, you can still handle the Subaru key fob battery replacement yourself. Newer Subaru key fobs, often rectangular in shape, typically use a 2032 battery. Here’s how to replace it:
Steps to Replace Battery in Newer Subaru Key Fob (Rectangle Shape)
- Remove Mechanical Key: On the back of the key fob, locate and push the small silver tab. This will release and allow you to pop out the metal mechanical key.
- Pry Open Key Fob: Insert the tip of the removed mechanical key or a small flathead screwdriver into the slot where the key was housed. Gently twist to pry open the key fob cover.
- Open Key Fob Cover: Carefully separate the front and back covers of the key fob to expose the internal components.
- Locate the Battery: Find the battery, which might be on either side of the transmitter circuit board.
- Replace Battery: Remove the old battery and insert a new 2032 battery. Ensure the positive (+) side of the battery is facing upwards.
- Reassemble Key Fob: Carefully snap the key fob covers back together until they are securely closed. Re-insert the mechanical key back into its slot.
Alt text: Replacing the 2032 coin cell battery in a newer, rectangular Subaru key fob during a DIY battery replacement.
Need Further Assistance?
If you have additional questions about how to program a Subaru key fob, or if you have a newer model and encounter difficulties, don’t hesitate to contact our parts department at keyfobx.com. We are here to help with any inquiries regarding Subaru key fob programming or replacement.
Our parts store also stocks a wide range of genuine OEM Subaru parts and accessories. You can conveniently order everything you need from home. Feel free to reach out to us online for assistance or to explore our current parts specials.
