Experiencing issues with your Subaru Forester key fob can be frustrating, especially when you’re locked out or unable to start your vehicle remotely. If your Subaru Forester key fob has suddenly stopped working, you’re not alone, and there are a few things you can check before assuming the worst. Let’s explore some potential causes and troubleshooting steps to get your key fob functioning again.
Testing Your Key Fob Signal
A simple first step is to determine if your key fob is actually transmitting a signal. Many auto parts stores offer a free key fob testing service. They use a small device that can detect the signal emitted by your fob. Simply hold your key fob near the tester and press a button. If the tester lights up, your key fob is transmitting a signal. If it doesn’t light up, the problem might be with the key fob itself, possibly a dead battery or internal malfunction. Replacing the battery is a straightforward fix to try initially.
Potential Issues with the Vehicle’s Receiver Module
If your key fob is transmitting a signal but your Subaru Forester isn’t responding, the issue might lie with the vehicle’s receiver module. Interestingly, in some Subaru Forester models, the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) module and the key fob antenna module are integrated into one unit. If you’re also noticing a TPMS warning light on your dashboard along with non-functional key fobs, this could indicate a problem with this combined module.
One potential culprit for module failure, especially in Foresters, is water ingress. Reports suggest that this module might be located in a rear quarter panel area, potentially vulnerable to water damage, particularly after heavy rain. If you’ve recently experienced significant rainfall and then encountered key fob problems, water damage to this module could be a possible cause.
Temporary Solutions: Valet Mode and Battery Disconnect
While diagnosing the root cause, there are a couple of temporary measures you can consider. If your car alarm is activating when you manually open the door due to the key fob malfunction, you can try engaging valet mode. This mode should prevent the alarm from triggering when using the physical key. Consult your owner’s manual for instructions on how to activate valet mode on your Subaru Forester.
As a last-ditch effort, you could also try disconnecting your car battery for a few minutes and then reconnecting it. This is essentially a system reset and might, in some cases, temporarily resolve electronic glitches. However, it’s not a guaranteed fix and should be approached with caution.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is based on general knowledge and online research and should be taken as guidance, not definitive professional advice. If you are unable to resolve the issue yourself, it’s always recommended to consult a qualified automotive technician or your Subaru dealer for a proper diagnosis and repair. They can accurately pinpoint the problem and ensure the correct solution for your Subaru Forester key fob issue.
