Open and Start a Subaru with a Dead Key Fob

How to Open and Start a Subaru with a Dead Key Fob

This page holds all of the emergency open and start or back-up open and start procedures needed for Subaru vehicles if the battery in the key fob dies or if there are electrical signals interfering with the fob.

Getting into Your Subaru

• First, for video help, click here!
• Finally, if you need or want another manufacturer, click here.

Retrieving the Mechanical Key

Subaru uses three different styles of Access Key fobs (remote controls or ‘clickers), each of which holds a mechanical key. The rectangular shape Style 1 has a release catch (1) on the mechanical key (2) itself, very near the key ring hole, as shown. Slide the catch towards the hole while pulling on the key to remove it from the Access Key.

There’s plenty more below and video help here…

The Style 2 Access Key has an oval shape. The release for the mechanical key (2) is a simple push-button (1) on the back of the Access Key, as shown (for the record, it looks like it will slide — it won’t). Pull out the mechanical key while pressing the release button at the same time.

Finally, a limited number of Subaru models feature a Style 3 Access Key, which is also a more rectangular shape. Here, the mechanical key release (1) is on the side of the Access Key, as shown.  Pull out the mechanical key (2) while pressing the release button at the same time.

Starting Your Subaru

Regardless of which Access Key or key fob in hand, the starting process for Subaru vehicles is the same. Hold the Access Key or key fob against the Start / Stop ignition switch with buttons facing out towards you, as shown. The vehicle and the Access Key will talk to each other for a few moments, after which a chime or ‘ding’ will be heard.

The Start / Stop ignition has now been switched to the “ACC” or “ON” position. With the brake pedal still depressed, push the Start / Stop button to start the engine. Like similar systems from Toyota and Hyundai, etc., you might opt to simply push the button with the key fob to start it.

Note: If you have made an attempt to start the vehicle without success, there may be residual pressure in the brake system and a new warning light may appear (left) or text message to Step on the Brake. Press the brake pedal very, very hard when trying to start the vehicle again to be sure that the release switch behind the pedal is engaged. Or wait a few minutes and try again.

Finally, check our Videos for additional help.

Models examined include Ascent, BRZ, Crosstrek, Forester, Impreza, Legacy, Outback, Solterra, Tribeca, and WRZ. Model years 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025.

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The information on this website is provided for information sharing purposes only, and should not be used in lieu of an OEM service manual or factory authorized service procedure. We are not in the auto repair business nor do we publish automotive service manuals. Nothing we include on these pages and posts has been reviewed, approved or authorized by any vehicle manufacturer.

Remember that only proper service and repair procedures will ensure the safe and reliable operation of your car. In addition, proper safety procedures and precautions, such as the use of safety goggles, the right tools and the equipment should be followed at all times to eliminate the possibility of personal injury or improper service which could damage the vehicle or compromise its safety.

Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow. And when it comes to the current state of flux in the auto industry, nothing is more true.

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