If your vehicle is a Subaru and the display starts radiating a warning to say “Access Key Battery Low Subaru,” that means that the battery inside your key fob is hung on by electronic threadbare.
The access key has many responsibilities in your paradise on wheels. You can’t lock or unlock the doors without the key. That isn’t the worst, for you still can drive the vehicle without it.
But the access key starts your vehicle. So it’s time to act. Here are some short instructions for you to get through this process.
Topic Summary
Signs of a Access Key Battery Low Subaru
Before the battery completely dies, you’ll likely notice:
- A decrease in the range of the key fob.
- Difficulty in locking or unlocking the doors.
- The engine may take longer to start or may require a few attempts.
How To Replace Access Key Battery
Note the Battery Type. Subaru key fobs (both keyless and not) usually require a CR2032 battery.
However, it is always best to check your vehicle’s manual or read off the current battery type before purchasing one.
Open the Key Fob
- Locate the small slot on the side of the key fob.
- Begun with a flathead screwdriver or a coin to pry the fob open. Don’t snap the fob in half. Tug a bit, and the inner workings should part gently.
The whole operation is delicate enough to damage the plastic when you insert your prying device, much less remove the battery cover.
Remove the Old Battery
- Carefully lift the old battery out using your fingers or a small tool.
- Take note of the battery’s orientation (positive side up or down).
Insert the New Battery
- Now affix the new battery, making sure it’s in the same orientation as the old one, into the slot.
- Press it down until it sits snugly in place.
Reassemble the Key Fob
- Snap the two halves of the key fob back together.
- Ensure all edges are aligned, and the fob is securely closed.
Test the Key Fob
- And park beside your Subaru, and make sure the key fob works correctly by locking and unlocking the doors.
- Start the engine to confirm that the new battery is functioning correctly.
Tips for Maintaining Your Key Fob Battery
Avoid Prolonged Button Presses: Don’t hold down the button for too long that rapidly depletes battery power.
Keep Spare Batteries: Always keep a spare battery handy. This will save time when the battery runs low. Again.
Protect from Extreme Temperatures: Extreme heat or cold will diminish battery life, so keep your key fob somewhere reasonably temperate.
What If the Battery Dies Completely?
Should the battery die on you before you locate a replacement, which happened to me, you can still open the driver’s door and start the Subaru. Open the fob as you normally would, with the mechanical key hidden inside. To start the car, push the start button with the fob in your hand. The system should detect the fob if the battery is dead.
Can I Drive with a Low Key Battery?
Sure, you could drive around indefinitely with your Subaru and a useless key fob battery. But you don’t want to.
If your dashboard has a ‘Key Battery Low’ display, you have a depleting key fob battery. You can still use the fob to start and drive your vehicle, but the battery may soon die.
Also if the battery drains completely, you might no longer be able to use your remote fob to unlock the doors or to start the vehicle.
Should the battery appear low or begin blinking, we’d recommend replacing it as soon as possible with a CR2025 battery for the sake of convenience. No one wants to be stranded with an inoperative key fob!
Fortunately, you can replace the battery by yourself at home, or you can take your key fob to the Subaru dealership for a free battery replacement.
FAQs on Access Key Battery Low Subaru
How Do I Know When the Battery in My Subaru Key Fob is Low?
What you’ll most likely see is that established cars (such as yours) will typically show a dashboard warning saying ‘Key Battery Low.’ In addition, you might experience diminished range, trouble locking or unlocking the car, or a longer wait for the engine to start.
What Type of Battery Does My Subaru Key Fob Use?
Subaru key fobs use a CR2032 li-ion coin battery, but those appear to be common. The best way to confirm is to check the vehicle manual (or the actual battery if already installed) to see what is used in your vehicle.
Can I Still Start My Subaru If the Key Fob Battery is Dead?
Yes, it’s possible to start your Subaru even if the key fob battery fails. The two way communication in the fob might be dead, but the mechanical key that is hidden inside the fob still holds a secret. Lock and unlock the driver’s door using the mechanical key to intentionally confuse the engine electronics enough to open the system. Now press the start button on the dashboard with the physical fob itself present, and the engine should recognize the fob when you press the start button.
How Often Should I Replace the Battery in My Subaru Key Fob?
The battery should last 2 to 3 years (depending on usage), and I will personally replace it as soon as you receive the “Key Battery Low” warning to avoid any unpleasant scenario.
Can I Replace the Subaru Key Fob Battery Myself?
You can do it yourself quite easily. See your vehicle’s manual or ask at the parts counter of your local Subaru dealer. Otherwise, have it done professionally at your dealer or by an independent? You’ll have the privilege of paying for an arm and a leg.
Conclusion
Suppose you have a Subaru key fob with a rechargeable battery. In that case, you can easily swap out the battery yourself, saving you some hassle and time if you were going to call a locksmith or dealership to get it unlocked or not be stranded.
By following these steps, you will be able to make sure your access key remains fully functional when you need to use it.
If you don’t feel up to trying this or can’t manage on your own, your friendly neighborhood Subaru dealer will do it for you.