Subaru Forester Key Replacement

Subaru has several different models of vehicles including the Impreza sedan, Legacy midsize sedan, Outback three-row SUV, and BRZ sports coupe. The latter comes with a variety of features, including STARLINK concierge, curfew and boundaries alerts.

Before calling a locksmith or dealer, make sure to write down the year, make and model of your Subaru forester. This will allow the locksmith or technician to find your vehicle quickly.

Keys lost or stolen

If you lost your keys or key fob, a locksmith can quickly provide you with an alternative. The cost will be based on your car's model and year. If you own transponder chip keys or smart key fob the new key will need to be programmed, which requires the assistance of a professional automotive locksmith or dealer. Metal keys that aren't transponder-chipped are not required to be programmed.

You can also get a spare key fob from the dealer, but this is more expensive than hiring a locksmith to create one for you. The dealer must pay a fee in order to get the code needed to unlock the motor of your car from the subaru key fobs database. It could take anywhere from 10 minutes to a half hour, so it's a good idea how much to replace a subaru key fob keep a spare key fob in a secure location.

Even the best efforts you make to hold on to your key fob, the battery will eventually fail. It's a good idea to have a spare subaru key battery in your glovebox, so that you can replace the original one in case of need. You won't need to call a dealer or locksmith in an emergency. A locksmith who is familiar with Subarus might have the batteries available for this model, which makes the process quicker than other locksmiths.

Lost or Stolen Key Fob

If you lose your key fob, or it is stolen, it could be expensive to replace it. According to your car insurance policy, it may or might not be covered. It will be considered deductible. This is why it's a good idea to buy a spare key fob while you have one. Our State College Subaru dealer makes it easy.

Key fobs have a unique code that can help locksmiths and dealers cut a new key that is compatible with your ignition trunk and door cylinders. The old key fob's ID code stays in the system, even after it is removed from your vehicle, and that's why it is essential to ensure that your keys are safe.

The latest models of Subaru cars are equipped with a keyless entry system. If you're the first time owner of a Subaru Forester or another car with this feature, you'll require an expert to program your key fob and lock cylinders.

If you're an experienced Subaru owner, you can do it yourself and save some money. You'll require a small flathead screwdriver and a plastic pry bar tool. Place the screwdriver in an oblique notch near the "Panic" and "Trunk Release" buttons. This will separate the two parts of the key fob, allowing you access the battery compartment. Remove the battery that was in use, replace it with a brand new 2025 battery, and then put the key fob back together.

Locked Ignition cylinder

If your key won't move in the ignition, it could indicate that the cylinder for ignition is beginning to fail. Repeated insertions, and removals of the ignition cylinder could wear it out over time. The key will no longer fit and will not be able to move.

Luckily, the cylinder hasn't fully locked, and there are a few things you can attempt to get it back to normal. Try wiggling the key into and out of the ignition many times to clear any debris that might be stuck. If this doesn't help you, replace the key as soon as you can.

You'll need to use a screwdriver or similar device to take off the trim panel on your steering wheel, as well as the bolts that hold the housing of the lock cylinder. Then you can use a pick, awl or small screwdriver to press the anti-rotation tab under the cylinder's surface. After that then you can turn the cylinder until the slot and tab that holds it are aligned, then remove it from the casing.

When you've received the new cylinder, you'll need code it to your key fob. Most SUBARU dealerships have CKE technicians who can complete this service at your place of work or home for a reasonable fee.

Keyless Entry System

With a keyless entry system, you can open your car without the traditional key. Instead, a key fob or keychain sends an audio signal that is recognized by the car's sensors. This will unlock doors automatically or trigger features like turning on the lights as you approach the vehicle opening the trunk or activating 10 electronic devices based on your distance.

You can install an aftermarket keyless entry system or in newer vehicles that come with one. There are a variety of options, ranging from simple kits that open just the door for the driver, to more advanced systems that allow remote engine start, smartphone connectivity and an alarm. Selecting the best system for your Subaru Forester requires research and planning and it's recommended to talk to a professional before installing one.

Some key fobs require programming, which is only able to be completed by a professional locksmith or the dealer. Some key fobs do not require programming, such as ones that have metal keys that do not have transponders. If your key fob has a transponder chip, or smart key, it's likely to be programmed. Otherwise it's just a matter of replacing the battery. You can purchase a replacement 2032 key fob battery online or from any auto parts store. Make sure you have the correct type of key fob battery for your car prior to purchasing one.