Dealing with a dead key fob is frustrating, especially when you’re not sure which battery to buy. The good news? Most Subaru key fobs use the same battery type, and you can swap it yourself in under two minutes. Let’s figure out exactly what you need.
The Subaru Key Fob Battery Type You Probably Need
Here’s the straight answer: most Subaru key fobs use a CR2032 battery. If you’ve got a 2015 or newer Subaru with that rectangular smart key, that’s what you need.
The CR2032 powers the majority of modern Subaru models, including the 2015-2025 Outback, Forester, Impreza, Legacy, and Crosstrek. It’s a lithium coin cell that measures 20mm across and 3.2mm thick.
But before you run to the store, there’s a catch. Depending on your model year and key fob design, you might need a different battery type. Let’s break it down.
Different Subaru Models Use Different Batteries
Not all Subaru key fobs are created equal. Here’s what battery you’ll need based on your key design.
CR2032: The Modern Standard (2015-Present)
This is your battery if you’ve got one of these vehicles:
- 2015-2025 Outback, Forester, Impreza, Legacy, Crosstrek/XV
- 2019-2025 WRX and Ascent
- 2021-2025 BRZ
These key fobs have that sleek rectangular shape with multiple buttons and support push-button start and proximity unlocking. They’re the smart keys that let you unlock your car just by walking up to it.
CR2025: The Slightly Thinner Option (Pre-2015)
Some older Subarus use the CR2025 instead. It’s the same diameter as the CR2032 but slightly thinner at 2.5mm. Don’t mix these up—while a CR2032 might physically fit where a CR2025 belongs, it’ll be too tight and could damage your key fob.
CR1620: For Basic Remote Keys
Got an older Subaru with an exposed metal key and just one or two buttons? You probably need a CR1620. These simpler key fobs don’t have smart features—they’re just basic lock and unlock remotes.
CR1632: The 2013-2015 Exception
Here’s where it gets specific. If you’re driving a 2013-2015 BRZ, WRX, or Forester, your key fob might use a CR1632 battery. It’s not common, but it’s worth knowing if you’ve got one of these model years.
How to Know Which Battery Type You Actually Need
Stop guessing. Here’s how to know for sure.
Just Open It and Look
The foolproof method? Pop open your key fob and check what’s already in there. The battery type is printed right on it. Takes 30 seconds and eliminates all doubt.
Check Your Key Fob Design
You can also identify the battery by looking at your key fob’s shape:
Rectangular smart key with multiple buttons? CR2032.
Older design with exposed metal key? Likely CR1620 or CR2025.
2013-2015 performance model? Could be CR1632.
Your owner’s manual will also tell you, but who actually knows where that is?
How to Replace Your Subaru Key Fob Battery
You don’t need to visit a dealer for this. Here’s how to do it yourself.
What You’ll Need
- Small flathead screwdriver (or even a butter knife works)
- New battery in the correct type
- That’s it
Some people wear rubber gloves to avoid getting oil on the battery contacts, but it’s not required.
The Replacement Process
Step 1: Find the silver button on the back of your key fob. Press it and pull out the emergency metal key.
Step 2: Look where the metal key was. See that little slot? Stick your screwdriver in there and gently twist. The fob will pop open into two halves.
Step 3: Remove the old battery. Note which side faces up (it’s usually the positive side with the + symbol).
Step 4: Pop in the new battery the same way. Make sure it clicks into place.
Step 5: Snap the two halves back together. You’ll hear a click when it’s sealed.
Step 6: Slide the emergency key back in.
Done. Test it by locking and unlocking your car. No reprogramming needed—your key fob will work immediately.
How Long Will Your New Battery Last?
You’re looking at about 2-3 years from a fresh battery. But that’s just average.
What Affects Battery Life
How often you use it: Obviously, the more you press those buttons, the faster it drains.
Temperature extremes: Leaving your key fob in a hot car or freezing garage will shorten battery life.
Proximity to your car: Here’s something most people don’t know. If you hang your keys near where you park, your fob is constantly communicating with your car. That drains the battery faster.
Battery quality: Cheap batteries from the dollar store won’t last as long as name brands.
Warning Signs Your Battery’s Dying
You’ll know it’s time for a replacement when:
- You have to stand right next to your car for the fob to work
- You’re pressing buttons multiple times before anything happens
- Your dashboard shows a key fob battery warning (newer models)
- The fob stops working completely
Don’t wait for total failure. If you’re noticing reduced range, grab a new battery.
Which Battery Brand Should You Buy?
Any CR2032 (or whichever type you need) will work, but quality matters.
Name Brands vs. Generic
Duracell and Energizer are solid choices. They last longer and provide more consistent power. Generic batteries work fine but might need replacing sooner.
One quirk: some Subaru owners report that Duracell CR2032s are slightly thicker than other brands. The fob still closes, but you might need to press a bit harder.
Where to Buy
You don’t need anything special. These batteries cost under $3 at:
- Any pharmacy
- Grocery stores
- Gas stations
- Online (buy a multi-pack for backups)
Skip the dealership. They’ll charge you $20 for the same battery.
Subaru Key Fob Battery Types by Model Year
Here’s a quick reference table to help you identify what you need:
| Model Years | Key Fob Style | Battery Type | Common Models |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2015-2025 | Rectangular smart key | CR2032 | Outback, Forester, Impreza, Legacy, Crosstrek |
| 2019-2025 | Rectangular smart key | CR2032 | WRX, Ascent |
| 2021-2025 | Rectangular smart key | CR2032 | BRZ |
| 2013-2015 | Smart key (specific models) | CR1632 | BRZ, WRX, Forester |
| Pre-2015 | Older smart key | CR2025 | Various models |
| Older models | Basic remote with exposed key | CR1620 | Various models |
When in doubt, check your actual battery. The model number is stamped right on it.
Pro Tips for Longer Battery Life
Want to squeeze more life out of each battery? Try these tricks.
Store Spare Keys Properly
Got a spare key fob you rarely use? Some owners keep them in Faraday pouches. These signal-blocking bags prevent the fob from constantly searching for your car, which preserves the battery.
Don’t Store Keys Near Your Car
If you hang your keys by the garage door where your Subaru’s parked, the fob is constantly communicating with the vehicle. Move them farther away.
Keep a Spare Battery
CR2032 batteries have a long shelf life. Buy a two-pack and toss the spare in your glove box. You’ll thank yourself when your fob dies in a parking lot.
Replace Both Fobs at Once
If you’ve had your Subaru for a couple years and one fob dies, the other isn’t far behind. Just replace both batteries at the same time.
Common Questions About Subaru Key Fob Batteries
Will Any CR2032 Work?
Yes, as long as it’s a CR2032, it’ll work. Don’t overthink it. The “CR” means lithium chemistry, “20” is the diameter in millimeters, and “32” is the thickness in tenths of millimeters.
Do I Need to Reprogram After Battery Replacement?
Nope. The key fob retains its programming even with a dead battery. Pop in a fresh one and you’re good to go.
What If My Fob Still Doesn’t Work After Replacing the Battery?
Make sure the battery’s oriented correctly (positive side up in most cases). If it still doesn’t work, the fob itself might be damaged or you might have the wrong battery type.
Can I Damage My Key Fob Opening It?
Not if you’re gentle. Use the designated slot where the emergency key slides out. Don’t try to pry it open from the seam or you might crack the plastic.
How Do I Dispose of Old Batteries?
Don’t just toss them in the trash. Many stores that sell batteries have recycling bins. Some local waste facilities accept them too. Lithium batteries shouldn’t go in regular garbage.
Why Your Subaru Key Fob Battery Type Matters
Using the wrong battery isn’t just about fit. Different battery types have different voltage outputs and capacities.
A CR2032 provides 3 volts and about 220mAh capacity. A CR2025 is also 3 volts but only has about 165mAh. That means less runtime.
Forcing a thicker battery into a fob designed for a thinner one can damage the contacts or prevent the case from closing properly. You might end up with moisture getting inside or buttons that don’t work right.
Just get the right battery. It’s worth the extra minute to check.
The Bottom Line on Subaru Key Fob Battery Types
Most Subaru owners need a CR2032. It’s that simple. If you’ve got a 2015 or newer model with a rectangular smart key, that’s your battery.
For older models or specific years, you might need a CR2025, CR1620, or CR1632 instead. When in doubt, open your key fob and look at what’s already in there.
The whole replacement process takes less time than waiting in line at the dealership. Save yourself the trip and the markup. Grab a battery for a few bucks, pop it in, and you’re back in business.
Keep a spare battery around. You’ll use it eventually, and it beats being stuck with a dead fob when you’re running late.
