How to Program Your Subaru Key Fob: A Step-by-Step Guide

Losing or needing to replace your Subaru key fob can be a hassle, but programming a new one doesn’t have to be. If you’re wondering How To Program A Car Remote Control Subaru, you might be pleased to know that for many older models, it’s a task you can accomplish right in your driveway. While newer Subaru vehicles typically require a visit to an authorized dealership for key fob programming due to security complexities, owners of certain older models can often program their key fobs at home.

This comprehensive guide from Subaru experts will walk you through the process of programming your Subaru key fob. We’ll cover identifying if your key fob is DIY-programmable, finding your unique programming code, and the step-by-step instructions to get your new or replacement key fob working seamlessly with your Subaru. We’ll also provide information on battery replacement for both older and newer style Subaru key fobs.

Determining if You Can Program Your Subaru Key Fob at Home

Before diving into the programming steps, it’s crucial to determine if your Subaru model and key fob type are compatible with at-home programming. Generally, Subaru vehicles with the older “teardrop” shaped key fobs are often programmable by the owner.

Identifying the teardrop shape Subaru key fob.

Newer Subaru models and those with rectangular key fobs usually require professional programming at a Subaru dealership due to advanced security systems. If you are unsure about your vehicle’s compatibility, it’s always best to consult your owner’s manual or contact your local Subaru service center.

Locating Your 8-Digit Subaru Key Fob Programming Code

For compatible teardrop key fobs, the first step in the programming process is to locate your 8-digit programming code. This code is typically found inside the key fob itself. Here’s how to find it:

1. Open the Key Fob Case: Carefully open the case of your Subaru key fob to access the internal transmitter circuit board. You may need a small flathead screwdriver or a coin to gently pry it open.

2. Identify the 8-Digit Code: Once open, examine the transmitter circuit board. You should see one or two series of numbers, each containing 8 digits.

3. Record the First 8-Digit Series: Write down the first 8-digit number series you find on a piece of paper or your phone. This is your programming code.

4. Reassemble the Key Fob: Carefully put the key fob case back together, ensuring it’s securely closed.

5. Prepare to Program: Sit in the driver’s seat of your Subaru. Ensure all doors are fully closed and the vehicle ignition is completely turned off.

Accessing the transmitter circuit board inside the Subaru key fob to locate the 8-digit programming code.

Step-by-Step Guide to Program Your Subaru Teardrop Key Fob

With your 8-digit code in hand, you are now ready to program your Subaru key fob. Follow these instructions precisely and act promptly when indicated:

1. Driver’s Side Door and Door Locks: Open the driver’s side door, and use the door button control to unlock all doors. Then, close the driver’s side door.

2. Ignition Key Cycling: Insert your key into the ignition. Quickly turn the ignition key to the “ON” position (just before starting the engine, activating the electrical systems) and then immediately back to the “OFF” position. Repeat this “ON-OFF” cycle rapidly ten times in a row.

3. Chime and Door Cycle: After the tenth key cycle, the instrument panel should emit a chime sound. Immediately open and then close the driver’s side door again. A second chime should sound, and the vehicle’s dome lights will typically flash to indicate programming mode is active.

4. Enter Programming Mode: Once you hear the second chime and see the dome lights flash, you have approximately 45 seconds to enter your 8-digit transmitter number into the vehicle’s computer. Use the lock/unlock button located on the driver’s side door for this step.

5. Entering the 8-Digit Code:

   • Digit by Digit Entry: For each digit in your 8-digit code, perform the following: Press the “lock” button the number of times corresponding to the digit you are entering. Immediately after pressing the lock button(s), press the “unlock” button once.
   • Example: If the first digit is ‘3’, press the “lock” button three times, then press the “unlock” button once. Repeat this for all eight digits of your code.

6. Confirmation Chime and Lock Engagement: After entering all eight digits, you should hear a chime from outside the vehicle. This confirms that the code sequence has been received.

7. Code Verification: Repeat steps 5 to enter the 8-digit code sequence a second time to verify the entry. If the code is entered correctly the second time, you will hear the vehicle’s locking system click, indicating engagement.

8. Final Steps and Testing: Open and close the driver’s door. Press either the “lock” or “unlock” button on your newly programmed key fob. Remove the key from the ignition; a chime should sound again. Open and close the driver’s door one last time. Wait approximately five seconds. Your key fob should now be programmed and functioning. Test all buttons on the key fob to ensure they are working correctly.

Using the door lock and unlock buttons to input the programming code into the Subaru system.

Subaru Key Fob Battery Replacement

Whether you drive an older Subaru or a newer model, replacing the key fob battery is a straightforward maintenance task. Here’s how to replace the battery in both newer (rectangular) and older (teardrop) style Subaru key fobs.

Battery Replacement for Newer Subaru Key Fob (Rectangular Shape)

Newer Subaru key fobs, often rectangular in shape, typically use a CR2032 battery.

1. Remove the Mechanical Key: On the back of the key fob, locate and push the small silver tab or button. While pressing the tab, you should be able to pop out the mechanical key from the fob.

2. Open the Key Fob Casing: In the slot where the mechanical key was removed, insert the tip of the key itself or a small flathead screwdriver into the gap between the front and back halves of the key fob casing.

3. Gently Twist to Separate: Carefully twist the key or screwdriver to gently pry open the key fob cover. The two halves of the casing should separate.

4. Locate and Remove the Old Battery: Identify the battery inside the key fob. It might be located on either side of the transmitter circuit board. Carefully remove the old battery.

5. Install New Battery: Place the new CR2032 battery into the battery compartment. Ensure the correct side of the battery is facing upwards (usually the positive side, marked with a “+”).

6. Reassemble the Key Fob: Carefully snap the two halves of the key fob casing back together until they are securely closed. Re-insert the mechanical key until it clicks into place.

Steps to replace the battery in a newer, rectangular Subaru key fob.

Battery Replacement for Older Subaru Key Fob (Teardrop Shape)

While specific steps may slightly vary, battery replacement for teardrop key fobs is also usually simple. Often, opening the teardrop fob reveals the battery compartment directly, or it may involve similar prying steps as the rectangular fob. Refer to your owner’s manual for the exact battery type and opening procedure for your teardrop key fob model if needed.

Need Further Assistance? Contact Our Subaru Parts Department

If you encounter any difficulties programming your Subaru key fob, or if you drive a newer Subaru model that requires dealership programming, our expert Subaru parts department is here to assist. Contact us today for answers to your questions or to schedule a service appointment. We also carry a wide range of genuine OEM Subaru parts and accessories. You can conveniently order parts online or reach out to our team for personalized assistance and to inquire about our current parts specials.