Subaru Key Fob Battery Dead, Spare Key or Keys Locked in the Car?

Subaru cars in Singapore

Subaru has a loyal following in Singapore, especially the Forester, XV and WRX. We work on Subaru models including the Forester, XV, Crosstrek, Impreza, Outback and WRX.

A typical Subaru call

This is the kind of Subaru call we often get: A Forester owner's key was soaked in a heavy downpour and now works only some of the time. While it still works, they ask for a cloned spare as a backup.

What's different about Subaru keys

Many Subarus use Keyless Access with push-button start, and the fob contains an emergency key. A key that works only some of the time is often a weak battery or water damage. Subarus use remote keys with a blade on some models and a keyless access smart key on others, usually with an emergency key inside.

Subaru key fob battery dead? How to get in and start

1. Get in: Subaru's access key carries an emergency key; unclip it and it opens the driver's door.
2. Start the car: Turn the access key over and press its back against the push-button ignition. Once the car recognises it, start as usual.

Details vary by year, so check your manual. Still stuck? Call us. Key locked inside instead? See keys locked in the car.

Subaru key fob battery replacement

Most Subaru fobs take a 3V coin cell (often CR2032 or CR2025): copy the type printed on the old one and fit the new cell the same way up. Not working after the swap? See key fob not working after a battery change; if the backup start above works, the Subaru fob itself is fine.

Subaru spare key

Down to one Subaru key? We clone Subaru remote key fobs from a working key, after checking your NRIC against the log card. We don't clone smart (keyless) keys. Cloning costs S$100–S$1,000 depending on the car, so WhatsApp 9224 9224 the model, year and a key photo to confirm first.

Subaru key battery

Forester keys of the 2014 to 2018 generation take a CR2032, but other Subaru keys use a CR2025 or CR1620, so read the old cell first. On most recent Subaru keys, hold the release on the back and pull out the emergency key; that opens a gap where the case splits. Subaru dealers suggest wrapping the screwdriver tip in tape so you don't crack the plastic.

New cell and it still won't work? After a Singapore downpour, water damage is the usual suspect, and a soaked key can fail for good. That's when a cloned spare earns its keep.

A Subaru habit worth building

Many Forester, XV and WRX owners have Keyless Access with push-button start, so the key rarely leaves a pocket or bag. Keep it in the same pocket every time, and never put it down in the boot or on a seat while loading: that's how most Subaru lockouts start.

Tips for Subaru owners

• Find the emergency key in your smart key before you need it.
• Replace the fob battery when the car warns you.
• Keep the spare key at home.

Independent locksmith, not affiliated with Subaru. All prices.

Sources: Subaru dealer guide: changing the key battery. Checked November 2026. Keys vary by model and year: always check your own handbook.

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