Is your Subaru Forester 2021 key fob not working? Don’t worry, you’re likely just dealing with a dead battery. It can be frustrating when you can’t easily access your vehicle, but replacing the Subaru Forester 2021 Key Fob Battery is a straightforward process you can handle yourself. This guide will walk you through each step to get your key fob back in working order quickly.
Just like any electronic device, your Subaru Forester 2021 key fob relies on a battery to function. Over time, this battery will naturally lose its charge and need replacing. Before you rush to schedule an expensive service appointment, consider that a simple battery replacement might be all you need.
Subaru uses a few different key fob designs, and while the steps to replace the battery are similar for each, the battery type can vary. For most newer Subaru vehicles, including likely the 2021 Forester depending on the exact model and trim, you’ll encounter one of the key fob styles detailed below. If you’re unsure which type you have, your Subaru Forester 2021 owner’s manual is the best resource. Once you identify your key fob and the correct battery, follow the appropriate steps below for a successful Subaru Forester 2021 key fob battery replacement.
Replacing the Battery in a Bulging Rectangle Subaru Key Fob
Battery Type Required: CR2032
This is a common key fob style for newer Subaru models, and might be what your Subaru Forester 2021 uses. Here’s how to replace the battery:
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First, locate the small silver tab on the rear of your key fob. Press and hold this tab to release and remove the mechanical emergency key.
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Carefully open the key fob casing. A flathead screwdriver inserted into the seam between the two halves can be helpful to gently pry it apart.
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After opening the fob, you’ll see the flat, circular key fob battery. It might be positioned above or below the transmitter circuit board depending on how the fob opens.
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Gently release the old battery and insert the new CR2032 battery. Ensure the positive side (+) of the battery is facing upwards. Try to minimize touching the new battery with your fingers.
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Snap the two halves of the key fob casing back together until they are securely closed. Re-insert the metal emergency key back into its place. You should hear a click as everything snaps back into place.
Replacing the Battery in a Teardrop Shape Subaru Key Fob
Battery Type Required: CR2025
This teardrop-shaped key fob is an older style, but some Subaru Forester 2021 models might still utilize it depending on the trim and features. The battery replacement process is very similar to the rectangular fob:
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For this teardrop fob, you’ll skip the first step of removing an emergency key as it doesn’t have one.
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Proceed to carefully pry open the fob casing using a flathead screwdriver or similar tool, inserting it into the seam.
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Locate the circular key fob battery inside.
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Remove the old battery and replace it with a new CR2025 battery, ensuring correct polarity (positive side + facing up).
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Close the fob by snapping the two halves back together firmly.
Replacing the Battery in an Exposed Metal Key Subaru Key Fob
Battery Type Required: CR1620
This is the oldest style of electronic Subaru key fob, recognizable by its permanently exposed metal key. The key difference here is an additional inner casing that needs to be opened to access the battery. This style is less likely to be used for a Subaru Forester 2021, but it’s good to be aware of.
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Open the outer casing of this key fob, similar to the bulging rectangle fob, by prying it apart at the seam.
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Inside, you’ll find a second, smaller casing. This inner casing has small tabs that you need to press to open it.
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Once the inner casing is open, you can access and remove the old CR1620 battery.
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Install a new CR1620 battery, again making sure the positive side (+) is facing upwards.
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Close the inner casing, then place it back inside the outer casing and snap everything securely back together.
With a fresh battery, your Subaru Forester 2021 key fob should be working perfectly again. Replacing your Subaru Forester 2021 key fob battery is a simple task that can save you time and money. By following these steps, you can quickly regain full functionality of your key fob and get back on the road with confidence.
