How to Change Subaru Keys Battery (Quick and Easy Steps)

Changing your Subaru key’s battery can feel tricky, but it is actually simple. You just need a small coin or screwdriver and a new battery. Open the key carefully, remove the old battery, put the new one in, and close it back. Your key should work immediately after this. This article will help you do it step by step, without stress. Even if you never tried this before, you will feel confident and get it done in minutes.

Identifying Your Subaru Key Type

First, you need to know what type of Subaru key you have. There are mainly two types: the traditional flip key and the smart key fob. Flip keys look like regular keys that fold into a small metal holder.

Smart key fobs are larger, with buttons for locking, unlocking, and remote start. Checking your key type is important because it affects how you open it to reach the battery. Some keys have screws, while others just snap open.

Once you know your key type, you can find the correct battery size. Most Subaru keys use a CR2032 battery, but always double-check. You can see the number printed on the old battery. If you replace it with the wrong type, the key won’t work properly. Having the right battery first makes the process smooth and saves time.

Opening a key for the first time might feel a little scary, but it is safe. Make sure your hands are dry and clean. Work on a soft surface like a table or cloth to avoid dropping small pieces. Taking your time and staying careful will prevent damage. After this, you will be ready to handle the battery replacement easily.

After identifying the key type and battery, you will feel more confident. This small preparation step helps you avoid mistakes. It also saves trips to a store or calling a dealer. Being organized from the start makes the whole process faster and more relaxed.

• Check key type: flip key or smart key fob
• Look for screws or snap-open design
• Identify battery type (usually CR2032)
• Prepare a clean workspace

Gathering Tools and Materials

Before you start, gather everything you need. You will need a small flathead screwdriver or coin, the correct replacement battery, and a clean cloth. Having these ready will save frustration. You don’t want to open your key and then realize you don’t have a battery.

Keep the key away from water or dirt while working. Even a tiny drop can affect the electronics inside. You might also want tweezers to handle the battery carefully. They can help you lift the old battery out without touching it too much. This protects the key’s contacts from oils or dirt on your fingers.

Working in a well-lit area is very helpful. Bright light lets you see tiny grooves or screws on the key. Sometimes, the key has small tabs that snap open, and you need to see them clearly. Good lighting also prevents mistakes that could bend or break the plastic housing.

Gathering tools and preparing your space first makes the process easier. It keeps you calm and focused. You won’t rush, and the key will stay safe. This small step really helps even if you are new to changing key batteries.

• Small flathead screwdriver or coin
• Correct battery type (check number)
• Clean cloth or soft surface
• Tweezers for handling battery
• Good lighting

Opening Your Subaru Key

Now it’s time to open your key. For flip keys, find the seam where the metal part folds. Use a small coin or flathead screwdriver and gently twist to open the cover. Do not force it; the plastic can break if too much pressure is applied. Work slowly and feel how it snaps apart.

For smart key fobs, look for a small notch or slot along the side. Insert your tool carefully and twist to pop the cover. You may hear a tiny click, which is normal. Some fobs have screws, so check and remove them first. Keeping track of tiny screws is important; put them on the cloth so they don’t get lost.

Once opened, notice how the battery sits. It usually rests flat in a small compartment. Look at the orientation: which side faces up. Remember this because you must insert the new battery the same way. It’s very common to insert the battery backwards by mistake, so take a moment to observe.

Opening your Subaru key carefully is key to success. Rushing can damage the housing or internal parts. Once you are confident, you can move smoothly to removing the battery and replacing it. You’ll see that the process is not complicated at all.

• Locate seam or notch
• Use coin or screwdriver carefully
• Remove screws if present
• Observe battery orientation
• Open slowly to avoid damage

Removing the Old Battery

With the key open, you can now remove the old battery. Use your fingers or tweezers to lift it out gently. Avoid bending or touching other internal parts. Sometimes the battery sits tightly, so a slight wiggle is enough. Be patient and calm; forcing it can damage the key.

Look at the battery to make sure it matches the number you noted earlier. If it looks corroded or dirty, clean the compartment lightly with a dry cloth. Dirt or corrosion can stop the new battery from working. Be gentle; do not use liquids.

Check the contacts inside the battery slot. They should be clean and flat. If they are bent, carefully adjust them back. Good contact ensures the key works properly after replacement. This step is important for the long life of your new battery.

Removing the old battery carefully makes replacement easy. You avoid scratches, broken clips, and lost parts. Once it is out, you are ready for the next part: putting the new battery in. It is a simple, satisfying step that gives you confidence.

• Lift battery gently with fingers or tweezers
• Verify battery number
• Clean compartment lightly if needed
• Check contacts and adjust if necessary
• Take time and be gentle

Inserting the New Battery

Now, take the new battery and insert it carefully. Match the orientation exactly like the old one. Usually, the positive side faces up. Place it flat in the slot without bending it. Make sure it fits snugly and touches the contacts properly.

Press the battery lightly to ensure it sits in place. Do not force it; if it does not fit, check orientation again. Sometimes flipping the battery solves the problem. Test by pressing a button on the key while the cover is still open. If it works, you are ready to close it.

For smart fobs, be careful not to touch the circuit board unnecessarily. Oils from your fingers can cause poor contact. Tweezers can help you place the battery safely. This makes sure the key works perfectly after reassembly.

Inserting the new battery correctly is the most satisfying step. It feels good to see your key work immediately. This small action restores your key without a trip to the dealer. After this, you are nearly done.

• Match orientation exactly
• Place flat in slot
• Press lightly to secure
• Test buttons before closing
• Use tweezers for safety if needed

Closing the Key and Testing

After the new battery is in, it is time to close your key. Align the two halves carefully. Press them together until you hear a click or see the seam snap shut. For keys with screws, put them back in and tighten lightly. Avoid overtightening; it can crack the plastic.

Once closed, test every button. Lock, unlock, and remote start if available. Make sure the key works at normal distances. If something doesn’t work, open it again and check the battery orientation. Usually, any issue comes from misalignment or battery placement.

Keep your key clean after replacement. Avoid dropping it or getting moisture inside. This helps the new battery last longer. Regular care and proper handling extend the life of your key and prevent future battery issues.

Closing and testing your key is the final step. When it works perfectly, you feel accomplished. This process is easy, safe, and saves money. Replacing your Subaru key battery becomes quick and stress-free.

• Align halves carefully
• Snap or screw cover back
• Test all buttons
• Check if key works at normal range
• Keep key clean and dry

Final Thoughts

Changing a Subaru key battery is simple, safe, and quick. By identifying your key type, gathering tools, and working carefully, you can do it yourself. Take your time and follow the steps. Once finished, your key works perfectly again. It feels good to solve this problem without paying for service. Even beginners can do it easily with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it hard to open a Subaru key?

No, it is not hard. Most keys are designed to be user-friendly. With a small coin or screwdriver, you can pop the cover open. Some keys have screws, so you need to remove them first. Always work slowly and on a flat surface. Observing the battery and tabs carefully avoids mistakes and keeps the key safe.

Can I use any CR2032 battery?

You should use a quality CR2032 battery. Cheap batteries may die quickly or leak. Always check the number on the old battery before buying a new one. Using the correct type ensures the key works properly. Good batteries last longer and prevent future issues. It is a small investment for reliability.

Do I need special tools to change it?

Not really. Most keys only need a small coin or flathead screwdriver. Tweezers help but are optional. A soft cloth or clean surface is recommended to avoid scratches. You don’t need anything fancy. Simple household tools are enough to complete the task safely.

Is it safe to touch the battery contacts?

It is generally safe, but oils from your fingers can reduce contact quality. Tweezers or a clean cloth are better. Be gentle when handling the contacts. Avoid bending or damaging them. Proper handling ensures your key works well after battery replacement.

Can a key stop working if battery is inserted wrong?

Yes, it can. If the battery is reversed, the key will not function. Check the positive and negative sides before inserting. Testing buttons before closing helps catch mistakes. Correct orientation is essential for proper operation. Always double-check the battery position.

Do I need to go to a dealer for this?

No, you don’t need a dealer. Changing the battery yourself is easy and cost-effective. Dealers may charge extra for such a simple task. Following this guide lets you do it safely at home. It saves money and time, and you gain confidence in handling your key.

Is it okay to clean the battery compartment?

Yes, cleaning lightly is okay. Use a dry cloth or soft brush. Avoid liquids or harsh chemicals. Dirt or corrosion can stop the battery from working properly. Gentle cleaning ensures good contact and longer battery life. Take care to avoid damaging the key’s internal parts.

Can the key work immediately after replacement?

Yes, it usually works immediately. Once the new battery is in and the key is closed, test all functions. Lock, unlock, and remote start should respond quickly. If not, check battery orientation and contacts. Most replacements are instant and satisfying to see working right away.