A dead key fob battery can be more than just an inconvenience—it can halt your day completely. If you’re a Subaru Forester owner facing this issue, you might be wondering about the Subaru Forester Key Fob Battery Type and how to replace it yourself. The good news is, changing your Subaru Forester key fob battery is a straightforward process you can easily handle at home. This guide will walk you through identifying your key fob type, the correct battery you’ll need, and the simple steps to get your key fob working again.
Knowing the specific type of key fob your Subaru Forester uses is the first step to a successful battery replacement. Subaru utilizes a few different key fob designs, and while they all serve the same purpose, they require different batteries. Let’s identify the style that matches yours to determine the correct subaru forester key fob battery type.
Identifying Your Subaru Forester Key Fob and Battery Type
Subaru key fobs generally come in three main designs. Identifying yours will immediately tell you the subaru forester key fob battery type required.
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Bulging Rectangle Shape: This is common in newer Subaru Forester models. This fob is characterized by its rectangular shape with a noticeable bulge and uses a CR2032 battery.
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Teardrop Shape: An older design, the teardrop fob is easily recognized by its rounded, teardrop-like shape. This type requires a CR2025 battery and differs slightly in construction from the rectangular fob.
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Exposed Metal Key with Buttons: This is the oldest style among electronic Subaru key fobs. It constantly displays the metal key and uses a smaller CR1620 battery. This fob also has a unique double-casing design.
If you’re still unsure, your Subaru Forester owner’s manual is the definitive guide to confirm your specific key fob and the recommended subaru forester key fob battery type. Once you’ve identified your fob, you’re ready to proceed with the battery replacement.
Step-by-Step Guide to Subaru Forester Key Fob Battery Replacement
Replacing the battery in your Subaru Forester key fob is a simple process that requires minimal tools. Follow the steps below based on your key fob type.
Replacing the Battery in a Bulging Rectangle Subaru Forester Key Fob (CR2032 Battery)
This fob uses a CR2032 battery, a common type readily available at most drugstores, supermarkets, and online retailers.
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Remove the Emergency Key: Locate the small silver tab on the back of your key fob. Press and hold this tab to release and remove the metal emergency key.
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Pry Open the Fob: Carefully separate the two halves of the fob casing. Insert a flathead screwdriver or a similar thin tool into the seam and gently pry it open. Be patient and avoid applying excessive force to prevent damage.
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Locate and Remove the Old Battery: Once opened, you’ll see the round, flat CR2032 battery. It might be positioned above or below the transmitter circuit board depending on how the fob opened. Gently release the battery from its housing. You may need to use the tip of a small screwdriver to help nudge it out.
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Insert the New CR2032 Battery: Take your new CR2032 battery and place it into the battery compartment. Ensure the correct side is facing upwards – typically the side with the “+” symbol. Minimize touching the flat surfaces of the battery to avoid transferring oils from your fingers, which can reduce battery life.
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Reassemble the Fob: Snap the two halves of the key fob casing back together until they are securely closed. Re-insert the metal emergency key until it clicks into place.
Replacing the Battery in a Teardrop Shape Subaru Forester Key Fob (CR2025 Battery)
For the teardrop fob, the process is very similar, but remember it uses a CR2025 battery.
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Pry Open the Fob: Since this fob doesn’t have an emergency key release, you’ll start directly by carefully prying open the fob casing as described in step 2 for the rectangular fob.
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Remove and Replace the Battery: Locate the CR2025 battery, remove the old one, and insert the new CR2025 battery, ensuring correct polarity, just like in steps 3 and 4 for the rectangular fob.
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Reassemble: Snap the fob casing back together securely.
Replacing the Battery in an Exposed Metal Key Subaru Forester Key Fob (CR1620 Battery)
This older fob requires a CR1620 battery and has an additional internal casing.
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Open the Exterior Casing: Open the primary casing of this fob just as you would the bulging rectangle or teardrop fobs, by carefully prying it apart.
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Open the Interior Casing: Inside the exterior casing, you’ll find a second, smaller casing. This interior casing usually has small tabs. Press these tabs to release and open the interior casing.
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Replace the CR1620 Battery: Remove the old CR1620 battery and replace it with a new one, again ensuring the correct side is up.
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Reassemble Both Casings: Close the interior casing first, ensuring it snaps shut. Then, place it back inside the exterior casing and snap the exterior casing closed.
What If Replacing the Battery Doesn’t Solve the Problem?
In most cases, replacing the battery will revive your Subaru Forester key fob. However, if you’re still experiencing issues after a battery replacement, it might indicate a more complex problem. It’s possible that your key fob itself is faulty or needs reprogramming, especially if it’s been some time since you replaced the fob itself.
For newer Subaru Forester models, key fob programming often requires professional tools and expertise. While older models sometimes allow for DIY programming, it can be intricate and isn’t always successful. If you suspect your key fob needs reprogramming or replacement, it’s best to consult with a Subaru dealership or a certified automotive locksmith. They have the right equipment to diagnose and fix more complex key fob issues.
Replacing your subaru forester key fob battery type is usually all it takes to regain access and control of your vehicle. By following this guide, you can confidently perform this simple maintenance task yourself, saving time and money. However, don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you encounter further difficulties – ensuring your key fob functions correctly is crucial for vehicle security and convenience.
