Is your Subaru key fob failing to unlock your doors or start your engine reliably? A dead battery is often the culprit. Replacing your Subaru key fob battery is a straightforward task you can easily handle yourself, saving time and money. Knowing the correct Subaru Key Fob Battery Size is the first step to getting your key fob back in top shape. This guide will walk you through identifying your key fob type, determining the correct battery size, and replacing it, ensuring you’re never locked out of your Subaru.
Subaru has utilized a few different key fob designs over the years, each requiring a specific battery. Identifying your key fob style is essential before you purchase a replacement battery. Consulting your Subaru owner’s manual is the most reliable method to confirm your key fob type and the corresponding Subaru key fob battery size. However, we’ve also outlined the most common Subaru key fob types and their battery sizes below to help you quickly identify yours.
Identifying Your Subaru Key Fob and Battery Size
Subaru key fobs generally fall into three main categories based on their shape and design. Let’s explore each type to help you pinpoint yours and determine the correct subaru key fob battery size:
1. Bulging Rectangle Shape Key Fob
This modern Subaru key fob is characterized by its bulging rectangular shape and a hidden metal emergency key. If your key fob looks like this, you’ll need a common and readily available battery size.
Subaru Key Fob Battery Size: CR2032
Steps to Replace the Battery (CR2032):
- Remove the Emergency Key: Locate the small silver tab on the back of the fob. Press and hold it to release and remove the metal emergency key.
- Open the Fob Casing: Carefully pry open the fob casing. A flathead screwdriver inserted into the seam can be helpful. Gently twist to separate the two halves.
- Locate the 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 opens.
- Replace the Battery: Gently release the old battery and insert the new CR2032 battery. Ensure the positive (+) side of the battery is facing upwards. Minimize touching the new battery with your fingers; handle it by the edges if possible.
- Reassemble the Fob: Snap the two halves of the fob casing back together until they are securely closed. Re-insert the metal emergency key.
2. Teardrop Shape Key Fob
The teardrop-shaped Subaru key fob is an older design, easily recognized by its rounded, teardrop form. This fob does not have a removable emergency key like the rectangular version.
Subaru Key Fob Battery Size: CR2025
Steps to Replace the Battery (CR2025):
The battery replacement process for the teardrop Subaru key fob is very similar to the rectangular fob, with the main difference being the battery size and the absence of the emergency key removal step.
- Open the Fob Casing: Carefully pry open the teardrop fob casing using a flathead screwdriver or similar tool along the seam.
- Locate the Battery: Identify the CR2025 battery inside the fob.
- Replace the Battery: Remove the old CR2025 battery and replace it with a new one, ensuring correct polarity (+ side up).
- Reassemble the Fob: Press the two halves of the fob firmly back together until they click and are securely closed.
3. Exposed Metal Key with Buttons Key Fob
This is the oldest style of electronic Subaru key fob discussed here. It’s distinguished by the permanently exposed metal key alongside the buttons. This fob features a double casing system.
Subaru Key Fob Battery Size: CR1620
Steps to Replace the Battery (CR1620):
Replacing the battery in this older Subaru key fob requires opening two casings.
- Open the Outer Casing: Pry open the main, exterior casing of the fob, similar to the rectangular and teardrop fobs.
- Open the Inner Casing: Inside the outer casing, you’ll find a smaller, secondary casing. This inner casing usually has small tabs. Press these tabs to release and open the inner casing.
- Locate the Battery: The CR1620 battery will be inside the inner casing.
- Replace the Battery: Remove the old CR1620 battery and insert a new one, ensuring the correct orientation.
- Reassemble Both Casings: Close the inner casing first, then place it back inside the outer casing and snap everything securely back together.
What If Replacing the Battery Doesn’t Solve the Problem?
If you’ve replaced your Subaru key fob battery size correctly and your key fob still isn’t functioning, there might be a different issue. In some cases, the key fob itself might be faulty or require reprogramming.
For newer Subaru models, key fob programming often needs to be done at a dealership for security reasons. If you suspect your key fob needs replacing or reprogramming, it’s best to contact a certified Subaru service center.
For older Subaru models, there is a possibility of programming the key fob yourself. The original article provides steps for self-programming older fobs, which involves a sequence of actions inside your vehicle. However, the success of this method can vary, and dealership programming is generally more reliable, especially for newer vehicles.
Conclusion
Replacing your Subaru key fob battery is usually a simple fix to restore your key fob’s functionality. By identifying your key fob type and using the correct Subaru key fob battery size – CR2032, CR2025, or CR1620 – you can quickly resolve common key fob issues. If you encounter difficulties or battery replacement doesn’t solve the problem, consulting with a Subaru dealership ensures proper diagnosis and resolution, including key fob programming or replacement if necessary. Keep your Subaru key fob working smoothly and avoid vehicle access frustrations by staying informed about your Subaru key fob battery size and replacement procedures.
