Key fobs are handy little devices that do more than lock and unlock your car with a click — they’re your first line of defense against theft and a major convenience for busy Subaru drivers. Learning how to open your Subaru key fob can save you tons of hassle when the battery dies. It also helps you avoid those emergency trips to the dealership and keeps more cash in your wallet, something every driver in Plymouth Meeting can appreciate during Pennsylvania’s unpredictable weather seasons.
A Step-By-Step Guide to Opening a Subaru Key Fob
Opening your Subaru key fob is simple. First, figure out which fob you have. Subaru has three main types, each requiring a different battery. Newer rectangular models use 2032 batteries while older teardrop fobs need 2025 batteries. The oldest models with exposed metal keys use CR 1620 batteries. You don’t need expensive premium batteries. Standard name-brand options work perfectly at half the price.
After you’ve determined which fob type you have and have the correct Subaru key replacement battery, grab a small flathead screwdriver, the new battery, and rubber gloves. Don’t skip the gloves — the oils on your hands can damage electrical components and cause weird glitches later.
To open the newer rectangular models, press the silver button on the back, release the metal key, then slide your screwdriver into that gap and twist gently until it opens. For the older teardrop fobs and models with an exposed metal key, put your screwdriver into the visible seam and twist gently. Be patient and work around the edge gradually, as the plastic gets brittle in cold Pennsylvania winters. Rushing can break the fob case, leading to an expensive replacement.
Battery Replacement: Inside the Subaru Key Fob
With your fob open, you’ll spot the battery right away. Remove the old battery using your fingernail or a plastic tool, applying firm but gentle pressure — avoid metal implements that could damage the circuit board. Once it’s out, place the new battery in, ensuring it sits snugly without wobbling. When installing the new one, pay close attention to the plus and minus markings inside the fob and on the battery.
Reassembling and Testing Your Subaru Key Fob
To reassemble the key fob, line up both fob halves carefully — they usually fit only one way. Make sure all buttons sit properly before closing, then press evenly until you hear a click. Many fobs have plastic tabs that must slide into matching grooves, so don’t force anything if you feel resistance. Double-check alignment first.
After the fob is reassembled, you can test it by standing near your Subaru and pressing the lock/unlock functions. Then, back away to check the range. You can test the panic button, too, but be mindful of others nearby.
Newer Subarus with a push-button start might need a reset after battery changes. With the doors closed, press the brake while holding the fob against the start button for a few seconds. Doing this reconnects communication after a power loss. This quick step can save you an unnecessary service visit when the battery change confuses your car’s security system.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Still having problems after changing the battery? Check the battery orientation first — many people install it backward while swearing they did it correctly. Next, examine the contacts. Those small metal points must be clean for good current flow. If necessary, a pencil eraser can effectively remove oxidation. If your range is poor, watch for interference from electronic displays in stores.
Water or drop damage is trickier to fix. Water damage shows up as greenish-blue corrosion on metal parts. For slight moisture, the rice-bowl trick overnight sometimes works. Severe damage usually requires replacement. If your battery is completely dead, you can still start your car by placing the fob against the push-button start, as the emergency chip functions without power.
Programming issues happen frequently after battery changes, especially in newer models. If your Subaru doesn’t recognize your fob, try this reset: sit inside your Subaru with the doors closed and quickly press the brake pedal three times while pressing the unlock button. Always check your manual for model-specific steps. When DIY fixes fail, professional help might be your only option, as some problems need specialized diagnostic equipment.
If it’s been a while since you last changed your Subaru’s key fob battery, check for the telltale signs of a dying battery, including needing multiple button presses, reduced range, or erratic behavior from your fob.
Keeping Your Subaru Key Fob in Optimal Condition
An ounce of prevention beats a pound of cure with these finicky gadgets. Don’t leave your fob in direct Pennsylvania sun or freezing cold — temperature extremes kill batteries fast. Be aware of where you store your key fob. You might choose to keep it in a front pocket instead of on a bulky keychain that stresses internal connections. Avoid storing it with coins or keys that might scratch or press buttons by accident. Also, watch that your fob’s panic button isn’t getting pressed in a crowded pocket or purse, preventing your vehicle from starting.
Cleaning matters for these devices. Those little crevices collect lint and crumbs faster than you’d think. When the buttons feel harder to press, that’s your cleaning cue. Use a soft toothbrush for button edges and a slightly damp cloth for the exterior — never spray cleaners directly. You should also replace the battery in a Subaru key fob every three years, even if it works fine, to prevent your fob from dying at an inconvenient time. Like regular oil changes, basic key fob upkeep saves trouble down the road.
Consider a protective silicone sleeve if you’re rough on your stuff. They absorb impact, and some offer waterproofing. Just check that the case doesn’t block signals, as thick or metallic ones can reduce range. If your range decreases despite a new battery, try this odd trick: hold the fob under your chin when pressing buttons, and your head will amplify the signal. You’ll look weird, but you’ll unlock your car from twice the distance.
Ensuring Your Subaru’s Security and Convenience
Mastering the ability to open your key fob puts you in control of your Subaru’s security features, and the tricks and techniques we’ve covered work for most Subaru models. Sometimes, though, you’ll hit a wall with more complex problems. If your fob needs reprogramming or has suffered major damage, contact our team at John Kennedy Subaru or schedule a service visit. We can also check for other required maintenance services or recalls while you’re here. Remember, a working key fob isn’t just a convenience; it’s part of your Subaru’s security system and worth keeping in tip-top shape.
Connect with us
