How Do You Replace a Subaru Key Fob Battery?

To replace a Subaru key fob battery, open the fob using a small screwdriver, remove the old CR1620 or CR1632 battery, insert the new one with the positive side facing up, and snap the casing back together. Test the fob immediately. The process takes 2-3 minutes and requires no specialized tools.

LiFePO4 Batteries

What Are the Signs Your Subaru Key Fob Battery Is Dying?

Signs include reduced remote range, unresponsive buttons, intermittent functionality, or a “key not detected” dashboard warning. For example, if your Subaru’s trunk release button works only within 3 feet instead of 30 feet, the battery likely needs replacement. Most Subaru fob batteries last 2-4 years.

Which Battery Types Do Subaru Key Fobs Use?

Subaru key fobs typically use CR1620 or CR1632 3V lithium coin batteries. The 2023 Outback uses CR1632, while older Impreza models may require CR1620. Confirm your model’s requirement via the owner’s manual or the existing battery’s engraving. Using incorrect types can damage circuitry or reduce functionality.

How Do You Troubleshoot a Subaru Key Fob After Battery Replacement?

If the fob fails post-replacement, check battery orientation, clean contact points with isopropyl alcohol, and reprogram the fob by pressing any button 6 times within 10 seconds. For push-to-start models, hold the fob against the ignition button while pressing the brake pedal to re-sync.

What Are the Costs of Subaru Key Fob Battery Replacement?

DIY replacement costs $2-$5 for batteries. Dealerships charge $15-$40, including labor and diagnostics. Third-party auto shops average $10-$25. For example, a 2022 Forester owner paid $32 at a dealership, while a Walmart battery purchase cost $3.79 for a CR1632.

Costs vary based on location and model complexity. Urban dealerships often charge 15-20% more than rural counterparts. Some luxury Subaru trims like the Touring Edition require dealership-specific battery calibrations, adding $10-$15 to labor fees. Always request itemized quotes to avoid unnecessary charges for diagnostic scans when only battery replacement is needed.

How Does Subaru Key Fob Design Vary Across Models?

Legacy and Outback fobs (2015+) have sliding physical keys and require CR2032 batteries, while Crosstrek models (2017-2022) use CR1620. The 2023 Ascent’s waterproof fob uses a specialized CR2450. Always verify model-specific requirements—using incorrect batteries in WRX STI fobs can disable performance mode activation.

What Are the Environmental Impacts of Key Fob Batteries?

A single CR1632 battery contains 3.2mg of lithium. Improper disposal of 1 million fob batteries releases 7,000 gallons of toxic landfill leachate. Best practices include recycling through Home Depot’s battery programs or Call2Recycle drop-offs. Subaru’s zero-landfill factories offer battery recycling but don’t publicize fob-specific programs.

Subaru’s environmental initiatives include battery recycling bins at 60% of U.S. dealerships, though participation rates hover around 34%. The automaker’s 2030 EcoVision aims to increase fob battery recycling by 150% through consumer education programs. Consider rechargeable battery conversion kits for frequently used fobs, which reduce lithium waste by 80% over 5 years.

How Do You Reprogram a Subaru Key Fob After Battery Replacement?

For push-start models:
1. Sit in driver’s seat with doors closed
2. Press lock/unlock buttons simultaneously for 1 second
3. Within 5 seconds, press any button 3 times
4. Wait for door locks to cycle, confirming success
Keyed ignition models require inserting/removing the key 6 times within 10 seconds, ending with key in “On” position.

“Subaru’s key fob power management is intentionally inefficient to prevent accidental activation,” says automotive locksmith Jason Rhee. “Owners should replace batteries proactively at 3-year intervals—waiting for failure risks immobilizer system errors. Always use Panasonic or Energizer batteries; generic brands often have 30% less lifespan.”

FAQs

Can a dead key fob battery drain my car battery?

No—Subaru fobs enter sleep mode when inactive. However, a malfunctioning fob left in the vehicle may intermittently “wake up,” causing parasitic drain.

Do all Subaru fobs use the same battery?

No—CR1620, CR1632, and CR2032 are common. Check your owner’s manual or existing battery engraving.

Will programming reset after battery replacement?

Typically no, but 2019+ models with push-start may require re-syncing via the brake pedal method.