Mastering the Art: How to Replace Subaru Legacy Key Fob Battery

Are you facing the frustrating situation of your Subaru Legacy key fob refusing to unlock your car? The most likely culprit is a dead battery. This guide will walk you through the process of how to replace Subaru Legacy key fob battery in a clear and concise manner, ensuring you can get back on the road in no time.

Why Your Subaru Legacy Key Fob Battery Might Die

Before we dive into the replacement process, let’s understand why your key fob battery might have given up the ghost.

• Age: Like all batteries, key fob batteries have a finite lifespan. Typically, they last around 1-3 years, depending on usage.
• Frequent Use: If you frequently use your key fob, especially for locking and unlocking your car, the battery will drain faster.
• Extreme Temperatures: Hot or cold environments can significantly impact battery life, causing them to drain quicker.
• Leaving the Key Fob On: If you accidentally leave the key fob button pressed, it can drain the battery quickly.

Identifying the Right Battery for Your Subaru Legacy Key Fob

Before you embark on the replacement process, it’s crucial to know the correct battery type for your Subaru Legacy key fob. The most common battery type for Subaru key fobs is a CR2032, a small, round lithium-ion battery.

• Check Your Key Fob: Look for a small label or sticker on the back of your key fob. It often indicates the battery type.
• Consult Your Owner’s Manual: If you’re unsure, your Subaru Legacy owner’s manual will provide the specific battery type for your key fob.
• Visit a Local Auto Parts Store: You can also visit a local auto parts store and ask for the correct battery for your Subaru Legacy key fob model.

Gathering the Necessary Tools

You won’t need a lot of tools for this task. Here’s what you’ll need:

• New CR2032 Battery: Ensure you have the correct type of battery.
• Small Screwdriver: A small flathead screwdriver is typically required to open the key fob.

Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your Subaru Legacy Key Fob Battery

Now, let’s get into the actual replacement process:

1. Locate the Key Fob Battery Compartment: On most Subaru Legacy key fobs, the battery compartment is located on the back of the key fob. Look for a small seam or a small button that you can press.

2. Open the Key Fob: Use a small flathead screwdriver to gently pry open the key fob along the seam. Be careful not to apply excessive force, as you could damage the key fob.

3. Remove the Old Battery: Once the key fob is open, you’ll see the old battery. Carefully remove the old battery by gently pulling it out.

4. Insert the New Battery: Take your new CR2032 battery and insert it into the battery compartment, ensuring the positive (+) side of the battery faces up.

5. Close the Key Fob: Carefully snap the key fob back together, ensuring that it closes securely.

6. Test the Key Fob: After replacing the battery, test the key fob‘s functionality by pressing the buttons. If the key fob works, you’ve successfully replaced the battery.

Important Tips for Replacing Your Subaru Legacy Key Fob Battery

• Be Gentle: When opening the key fob, use a small flathead screwdriver and apply gentle pressure to avoid damaging the key fob.
• Dispose of Old Battery Properly: Old batteries should be disposed of properly to avoid environmental harm. Check with your local recycling center for disposal options.
• Keep Spare Battery: It’s a good idea to keep a spare CR2032 battery on hand in case your key fob battery dies unexpectedly.

Troubleshooting Common Key Fob Issues

Even after replacing the battery, you may encounter some issues with your Subaru Legacy key fob. Here are some troubleshooting steps:

• Check the Battery Connection: Make sure the new battery is properly inserted and making good contact with the battery terminals.
• Clean the Battery Contacts: If there’s any dirt or corrosion on the battery contacts, clean them with a soft cloth or a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
• Reprogram the Key Fob: In some cases, you may need to reprogram the key fob after replacing the battery. Consult your Subaru Legacy owner’s manual for instructions on how to reprogram your key fob.

Time to Hit the Road!

With a new battery in your Subaru Legacy key fob, you’re ready to hit the road with confidence. Remember to dispose of the old battery properly and keep a spare on hand for future emergencies.

What People Want to Know

Q: How long does a Subaru Legacy key fob battery last?

A: The lifespan of a Subaru Legacy key fob battery varies, but typically lasts between 1-3 years, depending on usage and environmental factors.

Q: Can I use any CR2032 battery for my Subaru Legacy key fob?

A: While most Subaru Legacy key fobs use CR2032 batteries, it’s crucial to use a high-quality battery from a reputable brand. Using a cheap battery can lead to premature failure and potential damage to your key fob.

Q: What should I do if my Subaru Legacy key fob still doesn’t work after replacing the battery?

A: If your key fob still doesn’t work after replacing the battery, there could be a more serious issue. Contact your local Subaru dealership or a qualified mechanic for assistance.

Q: Can I replace the battery myself, or should I take it to a mechanic?

A: Replacing the battery in a Subaru Legacy key fob is a relatively simple task that most people can do themselves. However, if you’re uncomfortable with the process, you can always take it to a mechanic.

Q: How often should I check my Subaru Legacy key fob battery?

A: It’s a good idea to check your key fob battery every few months to ensure it’s still working properly. If you notice the signal range decreasing or the buttons becoming unresponsive, it’s a sign that the battery might be nearing the end of its life.