Subaru Access Key Battery Low! How To Replace Now?
Got a Subaru access key battery low warning? It’s key to replace the battery in your Subaru key fob fast. This keeps your car accessible.
Subaru remote key fobs run on CR2025 or CR2032 lithium coin cell batteries. If you ignore the warning, your Subaru key fob might not work when you need it.
This can be a big problem. This guide will show you how to replace your Subaru key fob battery quickly. You’ll need just a few simple steps.
This way, your vehicle’s access key will keep working right. Early signs of a battery running low include a shorter range and slower responses.
Cold weather can make things worse, causing even more delays. Many Subaru models show a dashboard warning for a low battery. This gives you plenty of time to replace it.
Whether you drive a Subaru Forester, Outback, Impreza, or Legacy, knowing when to replace the battery is important.
With the right tools and a bit of effort, you can get your key fob working again. It will keep all its programming too.
What’s The Subaru Access Key Fob?
The Subaru access key fob is key to modern Subaru cars. It locks and unlocks doors and starts the engine.
Knowing this helps us see why keeping the battery in top shape is so important. Subaru key batteries usually last two to three years, depending on how much you use it and the environment.
Most Subaru key fobs need CR2025 or CR2032 lithium coin cell batteries. The exact size needed can change based on your car’s model and year.
For example, the Subaru Forester from 2009 to 2021 might use either CR2025 or CR2032. On the other hand, Outback models from 2010 to 2021 mostly need CR2032.
Having a good battery in your key fob keeps you from getting stuck and makes your car safer.
Signs of a Subaru Access Key Battery Low
Knowing when your Subaru fob battery is low is key to keeping your car running right.
There are clear signs that tell you it’s time for a new battery. Spotting these signs early can help avoid bigger problems later.
Common Symptoms to Watch For
- Diminished range when locking or unlocking the vehicle from a distance
- Delays in engine starts, making it difficult to ignite the vehicle
- Dashboard warnings such as “Key Battery Low” that alert you to the battery issue
- Intermittent malfunction of remote features, affecting ease of access
How It Affects Your Vehicle?
Not paying attention to a Subaru key battery low warning can mess up your drive. A weak battery might make starting the engine hard or mess with remote functions.
Some cars, because of design flaws, might drain the battery faster. Replacing the battery on time can fix these issues and make your car more reliable.
How To Change Your Subaru Access Key Battery?
Changing the battery in your Subaru access key fob is easy to do at home. Knowing how to replace the battery saves time and keeps your key fob working right.
Here’s a simple guide to help you replace the Subaru key battery with ease.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Gather the necessary tools.
- Carefully open the key fob casing.
- Remove the old battery.
- Insert the new battery.
- Reassemble the key fob carefully.
Tools You Might Need
Before you start, make sure you have these tools ready:
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Flathead screwdriver | Helps pry open the key fob casing. |
| Coin | Can be used as an alternative to a screwdriver. |
| New battery | The replacement for your old battery. |
With these tools ready, you’re all set to replace the Subaru key battery. By following these steps, you’ll ensure your key fob works smoothly.
Step 1: Open The Key Fob
To start replacing your Subaru key fob battery, first open it carefully. Look for a small slot on the side. This slot helps you get inside without damaging the fob.
Use a flathead screwdriver or a coin to open the fob. Be gentle to avoid breaking it. This careful step lets you reach the battery for replacement. It makes the whole process easier.
Step 2: Remove The Old Battery
Removing the old battery from your Subaru key fob is the next step. Carefully lift the battery out of its spot. This helps avoid damaging the inside parts.
Make sure you know the right way to put the battery back in later. Most Subaru fobs use a CR2032 battery, a common subaru key battery type.
Check that this is the battery you’re about to use. The positive and negative sides must match the key fob’s markings.
Getting this right is key to avoiding problems when you put the new battery in.
Step 3: Insert The New Battery
Putting a new battery in your Subaru key fob is easy but important. Make sure it’s in the same way as the old one.
You’ll likely use a CR2032 battery, which is common for Subaru key fobs. Look at the “+” and “-” signs on the battery and the fob to get it right.
Here’s how to do it:
- Line up the new battery with the contacts inside the key fob.
- Press the battery down gently but firmly until it fits well.
- Make sure the battery is in right; if not, it might not work right.
It’s smart to have extra batteries because key fob batteries last 2 to 3 years. If you see a “Key Battery Low” warning, replace the battery fast.
Also, don’t press the key fob buttons for too long, as it uses up the battery quickly.
| Battery Type | Compatibility | Average Life | Replacement Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| CR2032 | Most Subaru models (Outback, Legacy, Crosstrek) | 2 to 3 years | Keep a few spare batteries accessible |
| CR2025 | Some models (Impreza) | 2 to 3 years | Check battery orientation before insertion |
After putting in the battery right, you’re ready for the next steps. This method keeps your key fob working well and lasts longer.
Regular battery care means you can always get into your car and stay safe.
Step 4: Reassemble The Key Fob
After putting in the new battery, it’s key to put the key fob back together right. Start by lining up the two parts of the fob.
Look at the edges and any grooves to help them fit together. Make sure the battery is in its spot without any blockages.
When you’ve got them lined up, press them together gently. You should hear a click when they snap into place. If they don’t click, or if they don’t fit right, it could cause problems later.
Here’s a simple guide to help you put it back together:
- Make sure the battery is in the right spot.
- Line up the two halves of the fob carefully.
- Press down firmly until they snap together.
- Check for any gaps between the halves; gaps may indicate improper sealing.
By following these steps, you make your key fob last longer and avoid problems. After you’ve put it back together, test it to make sure it’s working right.
Step 5: Test The Key Fob
After replacing the battery in your Subaru key fob, make sure it works right. First, test the key fob’s features. Try locking and unlocking your car from a distance.
If it’s slow or doesn’t work well, the battery might not be in right or there’s another problem. Then, try to start your engine with the key fob.
A good battery should let you start the car easily. But, if the engine won’t start, there might be a problem with the battery or other parts.
If the battery warning comes back, you’ll need to test it again. Also, watch for dashboard warnings about the Subaru key fob battery.
If the dashboard shows a low battery signal, it might mean the key wasn’t programmed right. Follow the steps to reprogram it. Make sure you can handle any issues, like getting locked out of your car.
FAQs
What does the “Access Key Battery Low” warning mean?
It means your Subaru access key fob’s battery is low. You need to replace it to keep it working right.
What type of battery does my Subaru key fob use?
Most Subaru key fobs use a CR2032 battery. Make sure to check your model for the exact type.
How often should I replace my Subaru key fob battery?
Subaru key fob batteries usually last 2-3 years. Replace it when you see signs of a low battery.
What are the signs that my Subaru key fob battery is low?
Look for signs like a shorter range when locking or unlocking. Also, delays in starting the engine and “Key Battery Low” on the dashboard.
How can I change the battery in my Subaru key fob?
To change the battery, open the fob, take out the old battery, and put in a new one. Then, put it back together and test it.
What tools do I need to replace my Subaru key fob battery?
You’ll need a flathead screwdriver or a coin to open the key fob for battery replacement.
What should I do if my Subaru key fob is not working after I’ve replaced the battery?
Make sure the new battery is in the right way. If it doesn’t work, the fob might need to be reprogrammed or checked further.
Can I use a different type of battery in my Subaru key fob?
It’s best to use a CR2032 battery for the best performance. Other types might not work as well.
