How to Program a Subaru Car Remote: A Comprehensive Guide

If you’re looking to replace or program a new key fob for your Subaru, you might be wondering if it’s a task you can tackle yourself. For owners of newer Subaru models, programming typically requires a visit to an authorized Subaru dealership service center. However, for older Subaru vehicles, programming the key fob at home could be an option. This guide from carcodereader.store will walk you through the steps on how to program a Subaru car remote, allowing you to potentially save time and money.

Understanding Your Subaru Key Fob

Before diving into the programming process, it’s essential to determine if your Subaru key fob is the type that can be programmed at home. Generally, Subaru key fobs that can be programmed by the owner have a distinctive teardrop shape. If your key fob matches this description, you can proceed with the following instructions.

Identifying Programmable Key Fobs

Look for a teardrop-shaped remote. This design often indicates that the key fob can be programmed without specialized tools or a dealership visit, provided your Subaru model is compatible with DIY programming.

Finding Your 8-Digit Subaru Key Fob Programming Code

To begin programming your Subaru remote, you’ll first need to locate an 8-digit code within the key fob itself. Here’s how to find it:

1. Carefully open the key fob casing to access the internal transmitter circuit board.
2. On the transmitter, identify one or two series of numbers, each containing 8 digits.
3. Write down the first 8-digit number sequence. This code will be crucial for the programming process.
4. Reassemble the key fob case securely.
5. Position yourself in the driver’s seat of your Subaru. Ensure all doors are closed and the ignition is off.

Programming Your Subaru Key Fob: Step-by-Step Instructions

Once you have your 8-digit code, follow these steps to program your Subaru key fob. It’s important to perform these steps relatively quickly for successful programming.

Preparing to Program

1. Open the driver’s side door and use the door button control to unlock all doors. Then, close the driver’s side door.
2. Insert the key into the ignition.

Entering the Programming Sequence

1. Turn the ignition key to the “ON” position, activating the electrical systems but without starting the engine. Then, quickly turn the key back to the “OFF” position. Repeat this sequence ten times in rapid succession.
2. Upon the tenth repetition, the instrument panel should emit a chime.
3. Open and then close the driver’s side door again. A second chime should sound, and the vehicle’s dome lights will flash, indicating programming mode is active.
4. You now have approximately 45 seconds to input the 8-digit transmitter number into the car’s computer using the door lock/unlock buttons.

Confirming and Testing

Follow these steps to enter your 8-digit code and finalize the programming:

1. Locate the lock and unlock buttons on the driver’s side door panel, typically positioned near the window controls.
2. Referencing the first digit of your 8-digit code, press the “lock” button the corresponding number of times. Immediately after, press the “unlock” button once.
3. Repeat step 2 for each digit in your 8-digit sequence.
4. After entering all digits, you should hear a chime from outside the vehicle, confirming successful code entry.
5. To verify, repeat steps 2 and 3 to re-enter the same 8-digit sequence. If successful, you’ll hear the vehicle’s locking system engage with a click.
6. Open and close the driver’s door, then press either the lock or unlock button on your newly programmed key fob.
7. Remove the key from the ignition; a chime should sound once more.
8. Open and close the driver’s door again. Within about five seconds, your Subaru key fob should be functional. Test all buttons to ensure proper programming.

Subaru Key Fob Battery Replacement

For newer Subaru models or if you simply need to replace a dead battery, you can also perform a Subaru key fob battery replacement. Here’s how to change the battery in a rectangular-shaped newer Subaru key fob, which typically requires a 2032 battery.

Battery Replacement for Newer Subaru Key Fobs (Rectangle Shape) – Requires a 2032 Battery

1. On the back of the key fob, find and push the small silver tab. This will release the mechanical key; pop it out.
2. In the slot where the key was removed, insert the tip of the mechanical key or a small flathead screwdriver into the seam between the fob’s front and back covers.
3. Gently twist the key or screwdriver to pry open the key fob cover.
4. Locate the battery inside, which may be on the reverse side of the transmitter circuit board.
5. Remove the old battery and insert a new 2032 battery, ensuring the correct polarity (positive side up).
6. Carefully reassemble the key fob components and slide the mechanical key back into place.

Need Further Assistance?

If you encounter any difficulties programming your Subaru key fob, or if you drive a newer Subaru model and require key fob services, don’t hesitate to contact our parts department for expert assistance. Our knowledgeable team can address any questions you may have regarding Subaru key fob programming or replacement.

Additionally, our parts store offers a wide range of genuine OEM Subaru parts and accessories. Feel free to order what you need online from the convenience of your home, or reach out to us for support or to explore our current parts specials.