Have you ever tried to press the buttons on your Subaru key fob and nothing happens? It can be frustrating and inconvenient, especially if you are in a rush or far away from your car.
There can be several reasons why your Subaru key fob is not working, but don’t worry, in this guide we will explore some common issues and possible solutions.
Common Issues with Subaru Key Fobs
There are a few common problems that may cause your Subaru key fob to stop working:
Dead battery in the key fob
One of the most common causes of a Subaru key fob not working is a dead battery.
Symptoms/Signs: This can be easily identified by checking for any signs or symptoms, such as the key fob not unlocking or locking the car remotely, or the buttons on the key fob not functioning at all.
In some cases, there may also be a low battery warning symbol on your car’s dashboard when you try to use the key fob.
Reasons: The key fob battery can die due to various reasons, such as age, wear and tear, or leaving the key fob in extreme temperatures. The constant use of the key fob can also drain its battery over time.
Troubleshooting Steps: If you suspect that a dead battery is causing your Subaru key fob to not work, the first step is to replace the battery.
Most key fobs use a standard lithium 3-volt battery that can be easily found at any hardware store or auto parts store.
Damaged key fob
Another possible cause for a non-functioning Subaru key fob is physical damage to the device. This can happen if the key fob accidentally gets dropped, stepped on, or exposed to water.
Symptoms/Signs: Signs of a damaged key fob may include visible cracks or dents on the device, or parts of the key fob not responding when pressed.
Reasons: The key fob can get damaged due to accidental drops or impacts, exposure to extreme temperatures, or water damage.
Troubleshooting Steps: If you suspect that your Subaru key fob has been physically damaged and this is causing it to not work, the best solution is to replace the key fob entirely.
You can purchase a new key fob from your Subaru dealership or online, and have it programmed to match your car’s security system. Alternatively, if you have a spare key fob, you can try using that one instead to see if it works.
Interference from other electronic devices
In some cases, the key fob may not work due to interference from other electronic devices nearby. This is particularly common in parking garages or areas with a high concentration of electronic signals.
Symptoms/Signs: Signs of interference may include the key fob not working at all, or only working sporadically.
Reasons: The key fob operates on radio frequency signals and can be affected by strong electronic signals from other devices.
Troubleshooting Steps: If you suspect that interference from other electronic devices is causing your Subaru key fob to not work, try moving away from the area and see if it starts functioning properly.
You can also try shielding the key fob with your body or a piece of paper to block out any interference.
Key fob needs to be reprogrammed
If your key fob is not working, it may simply need to be reprogrammed.
Symptoms/Signs: Signs that your key fob needs to be reprogrammed include the car not responding to the key fob’s commands, or the lock and unlock buttons not working.
Reasons: A dead battery or interference from other devices can disrupt the programming of the key fob.
Troubleshooting Steps: If you suspect that your Subaru key fob needs to be reprogrammed, try replacing the battery first.
If this does not work, refer to your owner’s manual for instructions on how to reprogram the key fob. If you are unable to do so, contact your dealership for assistance.
Another common issue with Subaru key fobs is that the buttons can become stuck or break over time. This can make it difficult or impossible to use the key fob for remote functions.
Symptoms/Signs: Signs of a stuck or broken key fob button include difficulty pressing down on the buttons, buttons not responding when pressed, or buttons that are visibly damaged.
Reasons: Over time, the buttons on the key fob can wear out or get damaged from frequent use.
Troubleshooting Steps: If your key fob buttons are stuck or broken, you may need to replace the entire key fob. However, before doing so, try using a small amount of rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab to clean around the buttons.
Faulty keyless entry system in the car
In some cases, the issue may not be with the key fob itself, but rather with the keyless entry system in the car. This can cause problems with using the key fob to lock or unlock the car.
Symptoms/Signs: Signs of a faulty keyless entry system include the doors not responding to commands from the key fob, or difficulty starting the car with push button start.
Reasons: There may be an issue with the receiver in the car that communicates with the key fob.
Troubleshooting Steps: If you suspect a problem with your keyless entry system, try replacing the battery in your key fob first. If this does not work, consult with your dealership for further assistance.
They may need to reprogram the key fob or check for any issues with the receiver in the car.
In some cases, there may be a recall on certain models that can cause issues with the keyless entry system, so it is always best to stay informed about any recalls from Subaru.
Water damage to the key fob
Another common issue that can occur with key fobs is water damage. This can happen if the key fob gets wet or is submerged in water.
Symptoms/Signs: Signs of water damage include buttons not working, corrosion on the battery contacts, and a malfunctioning signal from the key fob.
Reasons: Water can cause damage to the electronic components inside the key fob, causing it to malfunction.
Troubleshooting Steps: If your key fob has been exposed to water, immediately remove the battery and dry both the battery and key fob thoroughly.
You can use a hairdryer on low heat or place it in a bowl of uncooked rice to absorb the moisture. If the key fob still does not work, it may need to be replaced.
It is also important to make sure your car’s receiver has not been damaged by water as well.
Dead starter battery in the car
If your car is not starting at all, it may be due to a dead starter battery.
Symptoms/Signs: Signs of a dead starter battery include the engine not turning over, clicking noises when trying to start the car, and dim lights on the dashboard.
Reasons: The starter battery provides the initial power needed to start the car’s engine. Over time, it can lose its charge or become damaged.
Troubleshooting Steps: If you suspect a dead starter battery, try jump-starting your car with jumper cables and another vehicle. If this does not work, it may be time to replace the battery.
Loose or corroded connections within the key fob
Another common issue that can cause key fob malfunctions is loose or corroded connections within the key fob itself or in the car’s electrical system.
Symptoms/Signs: Signs of loose or corroded connections include intermittent issues with the key fob, such as it only working sometimes or certain buttons not responding.
Reasons: Over time, connections within electronic devices can become loose or corroded due to wear and tear. This can also happen if moisture gets into the device.
Troubleshooting Steps: If you suspect this may be the issue, carefully check all connections within the key fob and clean off any corrosion. You may need to replace damaged wires or components.
Malfunctioning central locking system
The central locking system allows for all doors and the trunk to be locked or unlocked simultaneously with the press of a button on the key fob. If this system is malfunctioning, the key fob may not work properly.
Symptoms/Signs: Signs of a malfunctioning central locking system include the key fob not being able to lock or unlock all doors and/or trunk at once, or only certain doors responding to the key fob.
Reasons: The central locking system can malfunction due to issues with wiring, sensors, or mechanical components within the system.
Troubleshooting Steps: First, check that there are no obstructions preventing proper function of the central locking system.
If there are no physical obstructions, the issue may lie within the wiring or mechanical components.
Quick Troubleshooting Solutions
If you are experiencing issues with your Subaru key fob not working, here are some quick troubleshooting solutions to try:
- Replace the battery: If your key fob has a dead battery, replacing it should solve the problem. Most Subaru key fobs use a standard coin cell battery that is easy to replace.
- Check for damage: Inspect your key fob for any visible signs of damage, such as cracks or water damage. If you notice any damage, it may need to be repaired or replaced.
- Try using the spare key fob: If you have a spare key fob, try using it to see if the issue is with the actual key fob or the car’s receiver.
- Reprogram the key fob: Sometimes, reprogramming the key fob can help resolve connectivity issues. You can find instructions on how to reprogram your specific Subaru model’s key fob in your owner’s manual.
- Move closer to the car: If signal interference is causing your key fob to not work, try standing closer to the car or moving it away from other electronic devices.
- Check for a faulty receiver: If none of the above solutions work, there may be an issue with your car’s keyless entry system receiver. It is recommended to take your car to a Subaru dealership or certified mechanic for further diagnosis and repairs.
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