Subaru Key Fob Programming
None of the 33 Subaru model years we cover can be programmed at home. That includes the Forester, Impreza, Legacy, Outback and Tribeca, 2005 through 2014, so a new key or remote means a locksmith or dealer. The battery you can do yourself. Most Subaru fobs take a CR2025, and the rest take a CR1620, which is harder to find in stores, so check yours before you order.
Choose your Subaru model for programming steps, the battery it uses, and the correct replacement fob with FCC ID and part number — 33 model years across 6 models.
- Forester 2005–2010
- Impreza 2005–2010
- Impreza WRX STI 2008–2010
- Legacy 2005–2010
- Outback 2005–2009
- Tribeca 2008–2014
A brass dot marks models with verified replacement-fob data (FCC ID + part number).
Can you program a Subaru key fob yourself?
Not at home. None of the 33 model years we cover has an owner programming procedure, so every Subaru fob and key has to be programmed by a locksmith or dealer with a diagnostic tool. The model pages still list the exact replacement fob and battery for each year.
What battery does a Subaru key fob take?
Mostly the CR2025, which covers 22 of 33 model years. Subaru also uses the CR1620, so check your model and year before you buy.
| Battery | Model years | Models |
|---|---|---|
| CR2025 battery on Amazon | 22 | Forester (2005–2010); Impreza (2005–2010); Impreza WRX STI (2008–2010); Legacy (2005–2007, 2010); Outback (2005–2007) |
| CR1620 battery on Amazon | 11 | Legacy (2008–2009); Outback (2008–2009); Tribeca (2008–2014) |
Subaru key types
The replacement keys we've matched to Subaru models fall into 3 types. A model year can take more than one, which is why the model pages list each option with its FCC ID.
- Remote 2005–2010
- A separate key fob that only handles locking and unlocking.
- Transponder Key 2005–2014
- A cut metal key with a chip in the head. No buttons.
- Remote Head Key 2006–2014
- One piece: a cut metal blade with the lock/unlock buttons built into the head.
What Subaru key programming costs
US price ranges for the key types above, with a working key on hand. Losing every key costs more, $200–$500 at a locksmith for a basic fob or transponder key.
| Key | Locksmith | Dealer |
|---|---|---|
| Basic remote, working key on hand | $50–$150 | $100–$250 |
| Transponder or remote-head key | $75–$200 | $150–$350 |
Full breakdown and sources: key fob programming cost .
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