Subaru Key Programming Explained In Fewer Than 140 Characters

Subaru Key Programming Explained In Fewer Than 140 Characters

Subaru Forester Key Replacement

Subaru offers several different vehicles, including the Impreza sedan and the Legacy mid-sized sedan. Outback is a three-row SUV. It also has a BRZ is a sports coupe. The latter comes with an impressive array of features that includes STARLINK concierge curfew and boundary alerts, and MySubaru app.

Before contacting a locksmith or dealer, make sure to write down the year, make and model of your Subaru forester. This will enable the locksmith or technician to locate your vehicle easily.

Keys that were stolen or lost are not found

If you have lost your keys or key fob, a locksmith can quickly offer you an alternative. The cost is based on the year and model of your car. If you already have a transponder or smart key, then the new key has to be programmed by an automotive locksmith or dealer. Non-transponder metal keys do not require programming.

The dealer may also create a spare key for you, but it will cost more than having a locksmith complete it. This is because the dealer will need to pay a fee in order to obtain the code that unlocks your car's engine from the Subaru database. This can take up to 30 minutes, which is why you should keep your spare key in a secure place.

Even even if you manage to hold on to your key fob, the battery will eventually fail. It's a good idea have an extra battery in your glove compartment, to ensure that you can replace the one you have in place if you need to. This way, you won't have to call a locksmith or visit the dealer in the event of an emergency. A locksmith who is familiar with Subarus may have batteries available for this model, which makes the service faster than other locksmiths.

Lost or Stolen key fob

If you lose your key fob, or it gets stolen, it can be costly to replace it. It could or might not be considered as deductible depending on your car insurance policy. It is recommended to purchase a spare keyfob when you have one. Our State College Subaru dealer makes it simple.

Key fobs come with a unique code that permits locksmiths and dealers to cut a replacement that matches your ignition, trunk and door cylinders. The ID code from the old key fob remains in the system after it has been removed from your vehicle.  subaru spare key cost G28CarKeys  is why it's vital to ensure your keys are safe.

Newer models of Subaru cars are equipped with a keyless entry system. If you are the first owner of a Subaru Forester, or another vehicle with this feature, then you will want to have a professional program your key fobs as well as lock cylinders.


If you're a seasoned Subaru owner you can do it yourself and save some money. You'll need a small flathead driver and a pry tool. The screwdriver should be inserted into an opening in the middle of the "Panic" and "Trunk Release" buttons. This will separate the key fob into two halves, allowing access to the battery compartment. Remove the battery that was in use, replace it with a brand new 2025 battery, then put the key fob back together.

Locked Ignition Cylinder

If your key doesn't turn in the ignition, this could indicate that the cylinder of ignition is starting to go bad. Repeated insertions and removals of the ignition cylinder can wear it out over time. The key will no longer fit and will not be able to turn.

Fortunately, the cylinder doesn't seem to be locked completely however there are some things you can attempt to get it back to working condition. Try wiggling the key into and out of the ignition many times to remove any debris that might be stuck. If this doesn't work, you should replace the key as fast as possible.

You'll need an instrument like a screwdriver to remove the trim panel on your steering wheel and also the fasteners that secure the housing for the lock cylinder. Then you can use a awl, pick or small screwdriver depress the anti-rotation tab beneath the face of the cylinder. After that, rotate the cylinder until the tab that holds it is aligned with the slot and then take it off.

Once you have the new cylinder, you'll need to encode it to your key fob. The majority of SUBARU dealers are trained CKE technicians who can meet you at your home or office and perform this service for an affordable fee.

Keyless Entry System

With a keyless entry system you can open your car without a traditional key. A key fob or keychain transmits a radio frequency which is detected by sensors within the vehicle. This can unlock the doors automatically or activate other features, such as turning on the lights when you drive towards the vehicle opening the trunk, or activating 10 electronic accessories based on the proximity of your car.

You can install an aftermarket keyless entry system or in newer vehicles that come with one. There are a myriad of choices, from simple kits that just open the door of the driver to more sophisticated systems that allow remote engine start, smartphone connectivity and an alarm. It's essential to do some research and make a plan prior to choosing the right system for your Subaru Forester. You may also want to speak with a professional.

Certain keys require programming, which should only be performed by a professional locksmith or the dealer. Certain key fobs do not require programming, such as those that use metal keys without transponders. If your key fob comes with transponder chips or a smart key, it will need to be programmed. Otherwise it's a simple replacement of the battery. You can purchase a replacement 2032 battery for your key fob online or in any auto parts store. Before you purchase the key fob, make sure you've got the correct model.