Picture this: You’re running late, ready to leave, and your Subaru key fob suddenly stops working. Panic sets in, right? You fumble with the key, realizing the battery has likely died. This common frustration is easily resolved! This guide provides a straightforward process on how to change Subaru key battery, so you can quickly get back on the road. By following these steps, you’ll gain the ability to fix this yourself. This approach will save you time and potentially money at the dealership. Let’s explore how easy this fix can be and what you need to do to change a Subaru key battery.

What You Need Before Starting

Before you start, gather your supplies. This preparation makes the process smooth and efficient. You’ll need a few essential items to successfully change your Subaru key fob battery. The right tools and the correct replacement battery are key to a quick fix. Having everything ready eliminates unnecessary trips and delays, so you can get back to what matters most.

Necessary Tools and Materials

The tools and materials required are usually easy to find. Often, you may have them around your house. Being prepared is the first step toward successfully replacing your key fob battery. Make sure you have the following: a new battery, a small flathead screwdriver, and a clean workspace.

• A New Battery: The specific battery type varies depending on your Subaru model. It’s typically a CR2032 battery, but checking your owner’s manual or the old battery itself will provide certainty. The battery’s model number is usually printed on it. Getting the right battery is crucial; using the wrong size won’t work, and you might damage the key fob.

Always verify the battery type before you purchase a replacement.

• Small Flathead Screwdriver: You’ll need this to pry open the key fob casing. Choose a small screwdriver to fit into the seam of the key fob and avoid damaging the plastic.

A plastic pry tool, if available, can prevent scratching your key fob.

• Clean Workspace: Work on a clean, flat surface. This helps keep all the components together. Also, it prevents accidentally losing small parts.

A well-lit area makes the process easier and allows you to see small details.

Identifying the Correct Battery for Your Key Fob

Choosing the correct battery is crucial for your key fob’s functionality. The battery type varies depending on the specific model and year of your Subaru. Therefore, always verify the battery type before you buy a replacement. Mistakes here cause frustration. Getting the right battery ensures your key fob continues to function correctly.

• Check Your Owner’s Manual: The owner’s manual is your best resource for this information. It contains specific details about the battery type required for your key fob.

Consulting your manual guarantees you get the exact battery your key fob needs. This step helps prevent damage to your device.

• Inspect the Old Battery: Once you open the key fob, look at the old battery. The battery’s model number, such as CR2032, is printed on the battery itself.

The old battery offers a straightforward confirmation of the required type.

• Use an Online Battery Finder: Many websites offer battery finders. You can input your Subaru’s make, model, and year to find the right battery.

Online tools make finding the correct battery easy and convenient.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Change Subaru Key Battery

Now that you have your tools and the right battery, follow these steps to change your Subaru key battery. This process is straightforward, and the instructions have been simplified to make the process easy. Carefully follow each step, and you’ll have your key fob working again in no time. This detailed guide ensures a smooth and effective battery replacement.

Opening the Key Fob

The first step is opening the key fob. This process requires care to avoid damaging the casing. The process is not complicated, but following these steps precisely is important. Take your time, and be careful not to force anything.

• Locate the Seam: Find the seam where the two halves of the key fob casing meet. This is where you will insert your screwdriver.

The seam is usually visible along the edge of the key fob.

• Insert the Screwdriver: Gently insert the tip of your flathead screwdriver into the seam. Be careful not to force it in too far, which could damage the internal components.

Insert the screwdriver carefully to avoid any damage.

• Pry Open the Casing: Twist the screwdriver gently to pry open the casing. You might need to do this at multiple points along the seam.

Apply gentle pressure to separate the halves of the key fob casing.

• Separate the Casing: Once you have pried the casing open enough, carefully separate the two halves.

Be gentle when pulling the halves apart to avoid breaking the plastic.

Removing and Replacing the Old Battery

Once the key fob is open, the next step is to remove the old battery and install the new one. This process requires care to avoid damaging the key fob’s internal components. Taking it slow and keeping track of the battery’s orientation are important. A mistake here could render your key fob useless.

• Locate the Battery: Identify the battery in the key fob. It is usually held in place by a small clip or holder.

The battery is often in a specific compartment within the key fob.

• Remove the Old Battery: Carefully remove the old battery. Use the screwdriver or a plastic tool to gently pry it out. Avoid using too much force.

Be gentle when removing the old battery to avoid damaging the components.

• Note the Battery Orientation: Pay close attention to how the old battery is positioned. Note which side is positive (+) and which side is negative (-).

This is important to install the new battery correctly.

• Insert the New Battery: Insert the new battery into the key fob, making sure it is in the correct orientation. Ensure the positive (+) and negative (-) sides align with the markings in the key fob.

Proper orientation is essential for the key fob to function.

Reassembling the Key Fob

After replacing the battery, reassembling the key fob is the final step. This process requires you to put the casing back together carefully. Make sure all the components fit correctly, and the casing is sealed properly. This step ensures that your key fob is protected from damage.

• Align the Casing: Carefully align the two halves of the key fob casing. Make sure all the internal components are correctly positioned.

Ensure that all buttons and parts are in their correct places.

• Snap the Casing Back Together: Press the two halves of the casing back together. You should hear a snap as the key fob reassembles.

Press firmly around the edges to make sure it is completely sealed.

• Test the Key Fob: After reassembling the key fob, test it to ensure it functions. Press the lock, unlock, and panic buttons to make sure they work.

Testing your key fob confirms that everything functions properly.

Common Problems and Solutions

Even though replacing your Subaru key battery is a simple process, a few issues can come up. Knowing these common problems and their solutions can save you time. Troubleshooting these issues ensures that your key fob works as intended. Anticipating potential issues will help you resolve them quickly.

Key Fob Still Doesn’t Work After Battery Replacement

Sometimes, the key fob might not work even after changing the battery. This can be due to a few reasons. Thoroughly review the steps you have taken. Careful examination often reveals the cause and the solution.

• Incorrect Battery Installation: Make sure the battery is installed correctly. Double-check the positive (+) and negative (-) orientation.

Reversing the battery can prevent the key fob from functioning.

• Faulty New Battery: The new battery could be defective. Try using another new battery to rule this out.

Defective batteries can sometimes slip through quality control.

• Key Fob Needs to Be Resynchronized: After battery

  Resynchronization can resolve communication issues between the key fob and your car.

Damaging the Key Fob Casing

It’s easy to accidentally damage the key fob casing during the opening process. It is important to work slowly. Using the right tools and approach can prevent any damage. Taking care at each stage helps avoid any accidental issues. Here are some of the ways you can prevent damaging the key fob.

• Using the Wrong Tools: Using a screwdriver that is too large can damage the casing. Always use a small flathead screwdriver or a plastic pry tool.

The right tool helps prevent any scratches or breaks.

• Applying Too Much Force: Forcing the casing open can break the plastic. Apply gentle pressure and work your way around the edges.

Be gentle, and do not force anything.

• Dropping the Key Fob: Dropping the key fob during the process can cause damage. Work in a stable area where the key fob is less likely to fall.

A stable workspace prevents any drops.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: How often should I change my Subaru key battery?

Answer: It’s generally a good idea to change the battery every one to two years, but this can vary. The lifespan depends on your use and the battery type. If your key fob starts to show signs of weakness (slower response, decreased range), it’s time to replace the battery.

Question: Can I use any type of CR2032 battery for my Subaru key fob?

Answer: Always check the battery type recommended in your owner’s manual or on your old battery. While CR2032 is common, it is crucial to ensure you have the correct voltage and specifications. Using the wrong battery could damage your key fob.

Question: What happens if I lose the small screws from my key fob?

Answer: Most modern key fobs don’t use small screws, relying on a snap-together design. However, if your key fob uses screws, try to find replacement screws at a local hardware store. Otherwise, the key fob may not be able to be reassembled.

Question: Will I need to reprogram my key fob after changing the battery?

Answer: In most cases, changing the battery won’t require reprogramming. However, after the battery is replaced, the key fob may require resynchronization. Follow the instructions in your owner’s manual if the key fob does not function right away. Resynchronization is simple and usually involves pressing buttons on the fob while in or near the vehicle.

Question: What is the estimated cost of changing the battery at a dealership?

Answer: The cost of changing the battery at a dealership can vary. The charges usually are for the labor and the battery itself. Doing it yourself can save you the cost of the labor, and you can buy the battery at a much lower cost.

Final Thoughts

Now, you have a solid grasp of how to change a Subaru key battery. You have the knowledge and confidence to fix this issue quickly, saving you time and possible repair costs. Remember, preparation is key; always have the correct tools and the right battery. When opening the key fob, take your time and be careful. After replacing the battery, reassemble it properly, and test to confirm it’s working. If you encounter issues, don’t worry; troubleshooting tips are included to help you. With the information in this guide, you can handle a dead key fob battery with ease. The next time your Subaru key fob stops working, you’ll know exactly what to do.