How to Program a Subaru Forester Key Remote: A Step-by-Step Guide

Losing or needing a replacement key remote for your Subaru Forester can be a frustrating experience. Fortunately, programming a new key remote for your Subaru Forester can often be done yourself, saving you time and money compared to dealership programming. This guide provides a clear, step-by-step approach to programming your Subaru Forester key remote, ensuring you can get back on the road quickly.

Understanding Your Subaru Forester Key Remote System

Before you begin, it’s important to understand the type of key remote you have. Subaru Forester key remotes can vary, and the programming procedure is designed to accommodate these differences. You may encounter two main types, which we’ll refer to as Remote A and Remote B, as described in the original manufacturer instructions.

• Remote A: This type of remote can be programmed completely following the procedure outlined below. This means both the remote locking/unlocking functions and the immobilizer chip (if present for starting the car) can be programmed.
• Remote B: Programming this type of remote using the DIY method will only program the remote functions (locking/unlocking). You will need to have the key blade cut and the transponder chip programmed by a dealer or a qualified locksmith for the key to start your car. This is crucial if your new remote is also intended to start the vehicle.

Referencing your key remote’s internal components can help identify the type. After opening the remote case (usually by popping off the back cover with a small screwdriver or unscrewing it), locate the ID number inside. This is typically an 8-digit number. If you see two rows of numbers, use the row containing only numbers and no letters.

Identifying the ID number inside your Subaru Forester key fob is a crucial step for programming.

Preparing for Programming Your Subaru Forester Key Remote

To ensure a smooth programming process, take these preparatory steps:

1. Gather Necessary Tools: You might need a small bladed screwdriver or a Phillips head screwdriver to open your key remote to locate the ID number.
2. Locate the 8-Digit ID Number: Open your remote as described above and write down the 8-digit ID number. This number is essential for the programming sequence.
3. Ensure All Doors Are Shut: Before starting the programming sequence, make sure all doors, including the trunk or hatchback, are completely closed.
4. Position Yourself in the Driver’s Seat: Get into the driver’s seat and close the driver’s side door. All doors must remain shut throughout the initial steps of the programming process.

Step-by-Step Programming Guide for Subaru Forester Key Remote

Follow these steps precisely to program your Subaru Forester key remote:

Step 1: Enter Programming Mode

1. Turn Ignition ON and OFF Rapidly: Insert your key into the ignition. Turn the ignition from the “LOCK” position to the “ON” position and back to “LOCK” ten times in quick succession within 15 seconds. “ON” is the position just before you would crank the engine to start.
2. Observe Vehicle Response: If you have successfully entered programming mode, your Subaru Forester will respond by flashing its lights and emitting an audible tone. This confirms the vehicle is ready to learn the new remote’s signal. If you don’t see the lights flash or hear the tone, exit the vehicle, ensure all doors are properly closed, and repeat step 1.
3. Open and Close Driver’s Door: Open and then close the driver’s side door. This action keeps the vehicle in programming mode, and you should hear the audible tone continue, confirming the system is still active.

Step 2: Enter Your Remote’s ID Code

1. Enter the 8-Digit Code Using Door Lock Button: Refer to the 8-digit ID number you wrote down earlier. Using the DRIVER’S side door panel LOCK button, you will enter this code digit by digit.

   • For each digit of your code, press the LOCK button the number of times corresponding to that digit.
   • After pressing the LOCK button the correct number of times for a digit, immediately press the UNLOCK button ONCE to move to the next digit.
   • Repeat this process for all eight digits of your ID code.

   Example: If your ID code is 12345678, you would perform the following actions:

   • Press LOCK once, then press UNLOCK.
   • Press LOCK twice, then press UNLOCK.
   • Press LOCK three times, then press UNLOCK.
   • …and so on, up to pressing LOCK eight times, then press UNLOCK.

2. Re-enter the 8-Digit Code: You must repeat step 2.1 and enter the entire 8-digit ID code a second time, following the same procedure using the LOCK and UNLOCK buttons.

3. Listen for Confirmation Tone: After you finish entering the eighth digit for the second time, you should hear a tone that lasts for approximately 30 seconds. This tone indicates that the key remote programming has been successfully completed for the remote you are currently programming.

Step 3: Program Additional Remotes (If Applicable)

If you have additional key remotes to program, you must immediately repeat Steps 1 and 2 for each additional remote. The system typically allows for programming multiple remotes in a single programming session. If you do not have any additional remotes to program, proceed to the final step.

Step 4: Exit Programming Mode

1. Remove Key from Ignition: Simply remove the key from the ignition. This action will exit the programming mode.
2. Test Your Remotes: Test all programmed remotes to ensure they are working correctly by locking and unlocking the doors and, if applicable, starting the vehicle.

Troubleshooting and Tips

• Timing is Important: The timing of turning the ignition ON and OFF in Step 1 is crucial. Ensure you are performing these actions quickly and within the 15-second window.
• Double Check ID Number: Verify you have correctly transcribed the 8-digit ID number from inside your remote. An incorrect number will prevent successful programming.
• Remote Type Compatibility: Be aware of the Remote A and Remote B distinction. If you have a Remote B type and need to start the car, remember dealer programming for the transponder is necessary.
• Start Over if Unsuccessful: If you don’t hear the confirmation tones or if the remote is not working after programming, don’t hesitate to start the entire process over from Step 1. You can repeat the programming procedure as many times as needed.

Programming your Subaru Forester key remote yourself is a straightforward process when you follow these instructions carefully. By understanding your key remote type and meticulously executing each step, you can regain full functionality of your key remote and save on dealership service costs. For more car key programming guides and solutions, visit carcodereader.store.