To replace the battery in a 2014 Subaru Forester remote key fob, follow these steps: 1. Press the silver tab on the back to release the emergency key. 2. Pry open the key fob casing carefully. 3. Find the flat round battery near the transmitter circuit board. Remove it and insert a new battery. Close the fob securely.
First, locate the seam around the key fob. Insert the flathead screwdriver gently into the seam and twist it to pop the fob open. Take care not to damage the plastic casing. Once open, note the orientation of the existing battery. Remove the old battery carefully, using the screwdriver if necessary.
Next, insert the new CR2032 battery in the same position as the old one. Ensure the positive (+) side faces up, as this is crucial for proper functionality. After placing the new battery, reassemble the key fob by snapping the two halves back together securely.
Test the remote key fob to ensure it works effectively. If the remote does not function, double-check the battery orientation and the fob’s integrity.
Understanding how to replace the battery is essential for maintaining your Subaru Forester’s key fob. With a functional key fob, you can easily access your vehicle. Next, let’s explore how to troubleshoot common issues that may arise with a key fob.
What Are the Steps to Replace the Battery in a 2014 Subaru Forester Remote Key Fob?
To replace the battery in a 2014 Subaru Forester remote key fob, follow the steps outlined below.
- Gather necessary tools (e.g., a small flathead screwdriver).
- Open the remote key fob.
- Remove the old battery.
- Insert the new battery.
- Reassemble the key fob.
- Test the remote functionality.
These steps ensure effective battery replacement and restore remote key fob functionality. Now, let’s explore each step in detail to provide a clearer understanding of the process.
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Gather Necessary Tools:
Gathering necessary tools means having the correct items ready before you start. For this procedure, you will need a small flathead screwdriver and a new CR1632 battery, which is the type required for many Subaru remote key fobs. It is efficient to prepare these tools to avoid interruptions during the battery replacement. -
Open the Remote Key Fob:
Opening the remote key fob involves finding the seam along the edge of the fob. Use the small flathead screwdriver to gently pry apart the two halves of the fob. Be careful not to damage the casing. This step is crucial because improper opening could lead to breakage or internal damage. -
Remove the Old Battery:
Removing the old battery requires you to locate the battery holder within the fob. Carefully take out the old CR1632 battery using your fingers or tweezers. Ensure you dispose of the old battery responsibly, as batteries can be hazardous to the environment if not disposed of properly. -
Insert the New Battery:
Inserting the new battery is straightforward. Position the new CR1632 battery in the holder, ensuring the positive (+) side faces up. Proper placement is vital for ensuring that the battery makes correct contact with the terminals inside the fob and functions properly. -
Reassemble the Key Fob:
Reassembling the key fob requires aligning the two halves of the fob and gently pressing them together until they click into place. Make sure all edges are sealed tightly, indicating a successful reassembly. A secure fit prevents dust and moisture from entering the fob. -
Test the Remote Functionality:
Testing the remote functionality is the final step. Press the buttons on the key fob to check if it locks and unlocks the doors as expected. If the remote does not work, you may need to ensure the battery is installed correctly or verify if the battery is functional.
By following these detailed steps, you can successfully replace the battery in a 2014 Subaru Forester remote key fob and restore its functionality.
What Tools Are Required to Replace the Battery in a 2014 Subaru Forester Remote Key Fob?
The tools required to replace the battery in a 2014 Subaru Forester remote key fob include a small flathead screwdriver, a new battery (CR2025), and optionally, a pair of tweezers.
- Tools Required:
– Small flathead screwdriver
– New battery (CR2025)
– Tweezers (optional)
A proper understanding of these tools can enhance the battery replacement process.
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Small Flathead Screwdriver: The small flathead screwdriver is essential for prying open the remote key fob. It helps in accessing the internal components without damaging the casing. Using an appropriate size minimizes the risk of breaking the fob.
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New Battery (CR2025): The CR2025 battery is the specific battery type required for the 2014 Subaru Forester key fob. This battery is widely available in stores and online, making it relatively easy to obtain.
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Tweezers (Optional): Tweezers can assist in handling small components, especially when removing or replacing the battery inside the key fob. They provide better grip and control.
Replacing the battery in a 2014 Subaru Forester remote key fob involves these simple yet specific tools. Each tool plays a significant role in ensuring an efficient and effective battery replacement, enhancing your ability to operate the remote key fob seamlessly.
How Can You Determine the Correct Battery Type for Your 2014 Subaru Forester Remote Key Fob?
To determine the correct battery type for your 2014 Subaru Forester remote key fob, consult the owner’s manual, check the fob itself, or search for the battery code online.
Consulting the owner’s manual: The owner’s manual typically contains specific information about your vehicle, including the exact battery type needed for the key fob. This information is often found in the section that discusses keyless entry systems or remote fobs.
Checking the fob: Look inside your key fob. Many remote key fobs have a small compartment that houses the battery. You can usually open this compartment by gently prying it open with a small tool. The battery will often have its type printed on it, like CR2032 or CR2025.
Searching online: If you cannot find your owner’s manual or access the fob easily, a quick internet search can help. Enter “2014 Subaru Forester remote key fob battery” into your search engine. You will likely find various forums, websites, or videos containing the information needed about the battery type.
Using these methods will help ensure that you correctly identify the battery required for your key fob, allowing for a successful replacement and ensuring your remote functions as intended.
What Should You Do If Your 2014 Subaru Forester Remote Key Fob Malfunction Persists After Battery Replacement?
If your 2014 Subaru Forester remote key fob malfunctions after battery replacement, consider troubleshooting various factors that might be causing the issue.
- Reprogram the Key Fob
- Check for Physical Damage
- Inspect the Key Fob Contacts
- Verify Vehicle’s Receiver Functionality
- Consult a Professional
Considering these options can help you identify the root cause and determine the best resolution for the malfunction.
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Reprogram the Key Fob:
Reprogramming the key fob is often necessary if it fails to communicate with your vehicle after a battery change. The Subaru Forester key fob requires a specific sequence to re-establish a connection. This process usually involves turning the ignition on and off, pressing the lock button, and then following specific steps outlined in the owner’s manual. A successful reprogramming allows the vehicle to recognize the fob anew. -
Check for Physical Damage:
Examining the key fob for physical damage is essential. Cracks, broken buttons, or corrosion can hinder functionality. Such damage may prevent the fob from signaling the vehicle properly. A visual check may reveal if the enclosure or internal components are compromised, which is common in older or frequently used fobs. -
Inspect the Key Fob Contacts:
Inspecting the key fob contacts is crucial as they can degrade over time. Contacts connect the battery to the circuit board and are integral for its operation. If these contacts are corroded or disturbed during the battery replacement, the fob may not function. Cleaning them with a small brush or replacing the fob may resolve the issue. -
Verify Vehicle’s Receiver Functionality:
Determining if the vehicle’s receiver is functioning correctly is important. If the receiver fails, it cannot receive signals from the key fob, regardless of its condition. Issues with wiring or electronic modules can cause such problems. A diagnostic tool can help identify if the vehicle’s receiver is the root cause of the malfunction. -
Consult a Professional:
Consulting a professional is advised if the key fob continues to malfunction despite troubleshooting. Automotive locksmiths or dealership technicians possess specialized tools and knowledge about Subaru key systems. They can provide insights and solutions you may not be aware of, such as programming a new key fob or repairing existing ones.
Adopting these measures can significantly enhance the likelihood of restoring your key fob’s functionality.
Why Is It Important to Maintain Your 2014 Subaru Forester Remote Key Fob Regularly?
Maintaining your 2014 Subaru Forester remote key fob is important to ensure its proper functioning and longevity. Regular maintenance helps prevent issues such as battery failure, loss of signal, and other operational problems.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), key fobs are essential components of modern vehicles. They provide convenience and security features, such as remote locking and unlocking, which enhance user experience and vehicle safety.
Key fobs can fail due to various reasons. The most common cause is a depleted battery. A key fob typically uses a small battery, often a lithium coin cell, which can lose power over time. This depletion can lead to the fob becoming unresponsive. Additionally, signal interference, dirt accumulation, and physical damage may also affect the performance of the fob.
The battery within the key fob provides the power needed to transmit signals. When you press a button, it sends a radio frequency signal to the car’s receiver. If the battery is weak or dead, this signal may become too weak to reach the car, causing the fob to fail. Regularly checking and replacing the battery ensures that the key fob can communicate effectively with your vehicle.
Several factors can contribute to battery depletion. Frequent use of the fob, environmental conditions, and the age of the battery play significant roles. For example, if a key fob is used multiple times a day, the battery will wear out faster. Additionally, exposure to extreme temperatures, either hot or cold, can negatively affect battery performance.
In summary, regular maintenance of your 2014 Subaru Forester’s remote key fob is crucial. It prevents battery failure, enhances signal strength, and ultimately ensures a reliable vehicle security and convenience feature. Regular checks can save you from unexpected lockouts and the inconvenience of replacing the fob altogether.
How Often Should You Replace the Battery in Your 2014 Subaru Forester Remote Key Fob?
You should replace the battery in your 2014 Subaru Forester remote key fob approximately every 3 to 4 years. The key fob contains a small battery that powers its functions. Over time, the battery loses its charge, which can lead to reduced performance or total failure. Regularly checking the battery’s condition can help you avoid unexpected lockouts. If you notice reduced range or intermittent responses, it is a good indication that the battery needs replacement. Following this guideline ensures your remote key fob remains functional and reliable.
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