Subaru Key Fob Replacement: A Driver’s Essential Guide

Published Date: Sep 24, 2025

Whether you drive an Outback, Crosstrek, or Forester, the Subaru key fob is your lifeline to convenience and security. But when that small fob stops working, goes missing, or simply wears out, a quick and reliable solution is key.

In this guide, we’ll explain the most common reasons for Subaru key fob replacement, the different fob types Subaru uses, and why many drivers turn to a mobile locksmith like Sure Lock & Key instead of heading back to the dealership.

Common Reasons Subaru Owners Need a New Key Fob

There’s no single reason why a Subaru key fob might need replacing — but a few common scenarios come up time and time again. Some issues creep up gradually, while others hit you out of nowhere:

Buttons stop responding or only work intermittently
The fob must be held close to the car to work
The battery drains unusually fast
The case is cracked or damaged
You’re dealing with a lost Subaru key fob

In any of these cases, a quick call to a mobile auto locksmith can save time and eliminate the stress of being stuck without access to your vehicle.

Try This Before Replacing Your Subaru Key Fob

Not every fob issue means you need a new one. Often, the battery is the problem. Here’s how to check:

Remove the physical key using the release button
Use a flat tool to open the fob casing
Take out the old battery (usually CR2025 or CR2032)
Insert a fresh one with the correct side up
Snap it shut and test the fob

If the issue continues, then a full Subaru key fob replacement is likely needed.

Types of Subaru Fobs and What Makes Each Unique

Subaru uses several key styles across its models — and knowing which one you have can help you better understand what kind of Subaru key fob replacement you need.

Standard remote fob: Found in older models; provides lock/unlock and panic buttons.
Subaru keyless entry fob: Allows you to unlock doors without pressing buttons — just approach the car with the fob in your pocket.
Subaru remote start key fob: Adds remote ignition to your existing keyless entry, making it a favorite in colder climates.

Each type requires specific programming and cutting, depending on your Subaru’s year and model — and when it’s time for Subaru car key replacement, Sure Lock & Key handles it all, from fobs to transponders and remote start systems.

How Subaru Key Fob Replacement Works from Start to Finish

Replacing your fob isn’t just about getting a new remote — it needs to be paired with your vehicle’s onboard system. Here’s what the process typically includes:

Confirming vehicle ownership with ID and registration
Identifying the correct fob using your VIN
Cutting any emergency key stored inside the fob
Programming the fob so it communicates with your car

This last step — key fob programming — is essential for features like push-start, keyless entry, and remote start to work properly. A professional locksmith will handle this on-site using specialized tools.

Why Choose a Mobile Auto Locksmith Over the Dealership

Going to the dealership might seem like the obvious solution — but it often involves higher costs, longer wait times, and the hassle of towing your vehicle if the key is completely dead.

That’s why more drivers now prefer calling a mobile automotive locksmith. A certified technician comes to your location, programs your Subaru key fob on the spot, and ensures all systems work. From a basic remote to a Subaru remote start key fob, the process is seamless — no extra appointments or delays.

Trusted Subaru Key Replacement with Sure Lock & Key

From quick duplicates to full-on emergency jobs, Sure Lock & Key is trusted by Subaru drivers across the U.S. We handle everything from Subaru fob replacement to reprogramming a Subaru keyless entry fob — all with fast, professional mobile service.

Whether you’re locked out, stranded late at night, or just being proactive with a spare, we’ve got you covered. Need a Subaru Outback key replacement? No problem. With decades of experience and a reputation for fast, friendly help, Sure Lock & Key makes the process easy from start to finish.

Imagine the situation. It's Friday, the last day of your work week, which has been challenging and busy. Two weeks ago, you agreed with your friends to meet after work to spend time together and relax. You walk to your car, put your hand in your pocket, and realize it's empty. You continue looking for your key fob everywhere but realize you probably lost it. How do you feel? You're probably in fear and panic? It is a typical reaction of a person who has lost something important. What should you do in this situation? First, you need to get a grip on yourself, seriously. Everyone panics to some degree if this, unfortunately, happens to them. So, try to make a strong effort to calm down, and prioritize going forward in taking the right steps in order to rectify the situation as best as possible. We have prepared step-by-step instructions, so you know what to do during a key fob loss or theft. We invite you to familiarize yourself with it below.

How to deactivate a stolen key fob

A key fob is an innovative and handy alternative to a classic car key. It allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle, control the alarm, activate the ignition remotely, open the trunk, etc. The key fob is very compact, so you can easily keep it in a handy and secure place. However, you need to remember that this device could be damaged by water and electrical impulses or it could get stolen. It is most important to pay attention to the last point, because a stolen key fob could allow a car thief to steal your vehicle. Losing a key fob isn't so critical if you deactivate your old key fob and do a key fob reprogramming for a new one. It could be complicated for those who don't have the required information about this procedure, especially if they use unreliable resources. The good news is, you don’t have to worry about that, because Sure Lock & Key is here to help. We assist clients not only with services but also by providing verified information.

Car Key Vs Key Fob

Today, cars aren’t only a means of transportation, to go from one place to another. In a way you can say it’s a lot about independence, comfort, and freedom. In fact, each new invention enhancement seems to accentuate those feelings. Over the years, with vehicles becoming an essential part of our lives, car theft has also become a huge problem in the United States. Thieves have become high tech in their self-education and have turned themselves into masters of their field. They have improved their knowledge to a level of cutting edge in using the newest techniques to enter your car. So we have to be wiser by always being one step ahead. Statistics show that making our cars as safe as possible is a priority and a necessity today. In this blog, we will learn the difference between a car key and a car key fob. We will help guide you in understanding the necessary from the unnecessary. So stay with us as we concisely take you through it.