Open the key fob by prying the two halves apart

The Subaru Outback key fob splits into two plastic halves held together by a small slot. Locate the seam running around the edge of the fob — it is usually on the side opposite the buttons. Insert a flat tool (a coin, flathead screwdriver, or plastic pry tool) into the slot and twist gently to separate the halves. Do not force it; the fob will pop apart with light pressure.

Once open, you will see the battery sitting in a metal holder on one half. The battery is round and silver, typically a CR2032 or CR2025 depending on your model year. Note which side faces up before you remove it — the positive side (marked with a + symbol) should face toward you when you look at the open fob.

Remove the old battery and install the new one

Lift the battery out of its metal holder. If it is stuck, use your fingernail or a plastic tool to gently pry one edge up. Do not use a metal tool that could scratch the circuit board underneath.

Insert the new CR2032 or CR2025 battery with the positive side facing up, matching the orientation of the old battery. Press it down until it sits flat in the metal holder. The battery should fit snugly without wobbling.

Reassemble the key fob halves

Align the two plastic halves so the seam matches up evenly. Press them together firmly until you hear or feel a click. The fob should be solid with no gaps between the halves.

Test the buttons when ready — press the lock and unlock buttons to confirm the fob works. If nothing happens, open the fob again and check that the battery is seated properly with the positive side facing up. A battery installed backwards will not power the fob.

Key Takeaways

  • Subaru Outback key fobs open by inserting a flat tool into the seam and twisting gently to separate the two plastic halves.
  • The battery is usually a CR2032 or CR2025, and the positive side must face up when you install it.
  • If the fob does not work after replacement, open it again and confirm the battery is seated properly in its metal holder.
  • New CR2032 and CR2025 batteries cost between two and five dollars and are sold at pharmacies, grocery stores, and hardware retailers.

Where to buy replacement batteries

CR2032 and CR2025 batteries are standard coin-cell batteries sold almost everywhere. You can find them at CVS, Walgreens, Target, Walmart, Home Depot, and most grocery stores in the pharmacy or electronics section. They are also available online through Amazon and other retailers. A single battery usually costs two to five dollars; buying a pack of two or four is often cheaper per battery.

If you are unsure which size your Outback uses, check the old battery before you remove it — the size is printed on the surface. You can also look up your model year on the Subaru website or call a Subaru dealer to confirm, though this is rarely necessary since most Outbacks use the CR2032.

What to do if the fob still does not work after battery replacement

If the buttons do nothing after you install a new battery, the problem is usually a battery installed backwards or not seated properly. Open the fob again and check that the positive side (marked +) faces toward you. Press the battery down firmly to may support it makes contact with the metal holder.

If the battery is installed correctly and the fob still does not respond, the circuit board or buttons may be damaged. Water damage is a common cause — if the fob has been dropped in water or exposed to moisture, the internal components may be corroded. In this case, you will need a replacement fob from a Subaru dealer or a third-party supplier. Dealers typically charge between 150 and 300 dollars for a new fob, while aftermarket fobs run 30 to 80 dollars.

How often to replace the battery

A CR2032 battery in a Subaru Outback key fob typically lasts two to four years, depending on how often you use the fob. If you use the fob multiple times daily, the battery may drain faster. If you use it only occasionally, it may last longer.

You will notice the fob is dying when the buttons require harder presses to work, or when you have to be closer to the car for the fob to respond. At that point, replace the battery rather than waiting for it to fail completely. Keeping a spare battery in your car or at home means you can swap it out when ready if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different battery size if I cannot find a CR2032?

No. CR2032 and CR2025 are different sizes and voltages, and using the wrong one may damage the fob or cause it to malfunction. If your Outback uses a CR2032, use only a CR2032. Check the old battery or call a Subaru dealer if you are unsure which size you need.

Is it safe to replace the battery myself, or should I go to a dealer?

Replacing the battery yourself is safe and takes less than five minutes. You need only a flat tool and a new battery. A Subaru dealer will do it for you, but they typically charge 25 to 50 dollars for the service, making it much more expensive than buying a battery and doing it at home.

What if I lose one of the plastic halves when I open the fob?

If you crack or lose a half, you will need a replacement fob housing. Subaru dealers sell replacement shells for 20 to 40 dollars, and you can transfer your circuit board and buttons to the new housing. Aftermarket housings are also available online for 10 to 25 dollars.

Does the fob need to be reprogrammed after I change the battery?

No. Changing the battery does not erase the fob's programming. Once you install the new battery and close the fob, it should work when ready without any additional steps.