It’s a familiar scenario for many Subaru owners: you reach for your key fob to unlock your car, and nothing happens. Before you panic, thinking about expensive dealership visits or complicated repairs, consider the simplest solution – the battery might just be dead. Replacing the battery in your Subaru key fob is a straightforward task you can easily handle yourself, saving you time and money. Understanding what batteries Subaru key fobs use is the first step in getting back on the road quickly. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Subaru key fob batteries, from identifying the correct type to replacing them yourself.
Decoding Your Subaru Key Fob Battery Needs
Subaru has utilized a few different key fob designs over the years, and each design typically requires a specific type of battery. Knowing which fob you have will dictate what batteries your Subaru key fobs use. The most common types of Subaru key fobs and their corresponding batteries are:
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Bulging Rectangle Shape: This is often found in newer Subaru models. These fobs generally require a CR2032 battery.
Alt text: Bulging rectangular Subaru key fob, commonly using a CR2032 battery, displayed on a white surface.
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Teardrop Shape: This older, teardrop-shaped fob is another common Subaru key fob. These fobs typically use a CR2025 battery.
Alt text: Teardrop-shaped Subaru key fob, usually requiring a CR2025 battery, shown with a key ring attached.
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Exposed Metal Key with Buttons: This is the oldest style of electronic Subaru key fob, characterized by a permanently visible metal key. These fobs use a CR1620 battery.
Alt text: Older Subaru key fob with an exposed metal key and buttons, utilizing a CR1620 battery, pictured against a dark background.
Quick Battery Reference Table:
| Key Fob Shape | Battery Type | Common Subaru Models (General) |
|---|---|---|
| Bulging Rectangle | CR2032 | Newer Models |
| Teardrop | CR2025 | Older Models |
| Exposed Metal Key with Buttons | CR1620 | Oldest Models |
Note: While this table provides a general guideline, the most reliable way to determine what batteries your specific Subaru key fob uses is to consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual. The manual will contain precise information about your key fob and the correct replacement battery.
Step-by-Step Guide to Subaru Key Fob Battery Replacement
Once you’ve identified what batteries your Subaru key fobs use, you can proceed with the replacement. Here’s a detailed guide for each type of fob:
Replacing the Battery in a Bulging Rectangle Subaru Key Fob (CR2032 Battery)
This process is straightforward and requires minimal tools.
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Remove the Emergency Key: Locate the small silver tab on the back of the fob. Press and hold this tab to release and remove the metal emergency key. This key is a backup to manually unlock your car door.
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Pry Open the Fob: Carefully separate the two halves of the fob casing. You can use your fingernail or a flathead screwdriver inserted into the seam between the two halves to gently pry it open. Be careful not to apply excessive force to avoid damaging the plastic casing.
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Locate and Remove the Old Battery: Once open, you’ll see the flat, round 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 holder. You may need to use the tip of a screwdriver or your fingernail to 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 (usually marked with a “+” symbol) is facing upwards, matching the orientation of the old battery. Handle the new battery by its edges as much as possible to avoid transferring oils from your fingers, which can potentially reduce battery life.
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Reassemble the Fob: Carefully snap the two halves of the key fob casing back together. They should click securely into place. Re-insert the metal emergency key until it locks.
Replacing the Battery in a Teardrop Subaru Key Fob (CR2025 Battery)
The process for the teardrop fob is very similar to the bulging rectangle fob.
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Pry Open the Fob: Since this fob doesn’t have a separate emergency key, you’ll start directly by prying open the casing. Use your fingernail or a flathead screwdriver to carefully separate the two halves of the teardrop-shaped fob.
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Locate and Replace the CR2025 Battery: Inside, you’ll find the CR2025 battery. Remove the old battery and replace it with a new CR2025 battery, ensuring correct polarity (positive side up).
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Reassemble the Fob: Snap the two halves of the fob back together until they are firmly closed.
Replacing the Battery in an Exposed Metal Key Subaru Key Fob (CR1620 Battery)
This fob requires an extra step due to its dual-casing design.
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Open the Exterior Casing: Open the outer casing of this fob just as you would the bulging rectangle fob. You may find a small tab to press or simply pry it apart at the seam.
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Open the Interior Casing: Inside the exterior casing, you’ll discover a smaller, interior casing. This inner casing will have small tabs that you need to press to open it. Carefully examine the casing to locate these tabs and gently press them to release and open the interior compartment.
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Replace the CR1620 Battery: Once the interior casing is open, you can access the CR1620 battery. Remove the old battery and install a new CR1620 battery, again paying attention to the correct polarity.
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Reassemble Both Casings: Close the interior casing first, ensuring it snaps shut. Then, place the interior casing back into the exterior casing and close the exterior casing securely.
What If Battery Replacement Doesn’t Solve the Problem?
In most cases, replacing the battery will restore your key fob’s functionality. However, if you’ve replaced the battery and your Subaru key fob still isn’t working, there might be other issues:
- Key Fob Damage: The key fob itself could be damaged due to drops, water exposure, or general wear and tear.
- Programming Issues: In some instances, the key fob might need to be reprogrammed to your vehicle, especially after battery changes in certain models or if there were electrical glitches.
- Vehicle Receiver Problems: Although less common, there could be an issue with the receiver in your Subaru that communicates with the key fob.
If a new battery doesn’t fix the problem, it’s best to consult with a Subaru dealership or a qualified automotive locksmith. They can diagnose the issue, test your key fob, and determine if you need a new fob or reprogramming services. Dealerships like Subaru North Orlando are equipped to handle more complex key fob issues and can provide professional assistance.
While some older Subaru models allow for DIY key fob programming, newer models often require dealership programming for security reasons. If you suspect a programming issue, contacting a professional is recommended.
Maintaining Your Subaru Key Fob Battery
To maximize the lifespan of your Subaru key fob battery and avoid unexpected failures:
- Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Don’t leave your key fob in direct sunlight or in very cold environments for extended periods, as extreme temperatures can affect battery performance.
- Keep it Dry: Moisture can damage the key fob circuitry and battery. Protect your fob from getting wet.
- Regular Battery Checks (Optional): While not strictly necessary, you can periodically check your key fob’s range. If you notice the range decreasing, it might be an early indicator that the battery is starting to weaken.
Knowing What Batteries Do Subaru Key Fobs Use and how to replace them is a valuable piece of car ownership knowledge. By following these steps, you can confidently handle a dead key fob battery and keep your Subaru ownership experience convenient and hassle-free. If you encounter any difficulties or suspect a more complex issue, don’t hesitate to seek professional help from your local Subaru service center.
