Hey guys! Ever found yourself wrestling with a key fob that's just not cooperating? If you own a 2017 Subaru Impreza, chances are you might be facing a dead or dying key fob battery. No stress! Replacing it is super easy and can save you a trip to the dealership. Let's dive into everything you need to know about swapping out that battery and keeping your Impreza running smoothly. A failing key fob battery can be a real headache. Imagine heading out for work, only to find that your car won't unlock or start because the key fob is dead. This is a common issue for many 2017 Subaru Impreza owners, and the good news is that it's a simple fix. You don't need to be a car expert to handle this; with a few basic tools and a little patience, you can get your key fob back in action in no time. First off, let's talk about why key fob batteries die in the first place. Key fobs use small batteries, typically CR2032, which are known for their long life. However, constant use and environmental factors can drain the battery over time. Think about how often you press the buttons on your key fob – locking, unlocking, opening the trunk – all these actions consume battery power. Additionally, extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can affect battery performance. If you live in an area with harsh weather, your key fob battery might not last as long as it would in a more temperate climate. Another factor is the quality of the battery itself. Cheaper batteries might not have the same lifespan as higher-quality ones, so it's worth investing in a reputable brand when you replace your key fob battery. Brands like Panasonic, Energizer, and Sony are generally reliable and offer good performance. Keep an eye out for signs that your key fob battery is on its way out. These include a decreased range, meaning you have to be closer to your car for the key fob to work, and intermittent failures, where the key fob works sometimes but not others. Some cars will even display a warning message on the dashboard, indicating that the key fob battery is low. If you notice any of these symptoms, it's a good idea to replace the battery as soon as possible to avoid being stranded. Replacing your 2017 Subaru Impreza key fob battery is a straightforward process. With the right tools and a little guidance, you can easily do it yourself. This not only saves you money but also gives you the satisfaction of knowing you've handled a simple car maintenance task on your own. So, grab your screwdriver, a new CR2032 battery, and let's get started!

What You'll Need

Okay, so before we get our hands dirty, let's make sure we've got all the right tools and the correct battery. Trust me, being prepared makes the whole process way smoother. You'll need a small flathead screwdriver (or a similar tool), a new CR2032 battery, and a soft cloth to prevent scratches. Finding the right tools is the first step to a successful key fob battery replacement. A small flathead screwdriver is essential for gently prying open the key fob without damaging the plastic casing. Make sure the screwdriver is small enough to fit into the designated slots on the key fob. If you don't have a flathead screwdriver, you can also use a thin, sturdy plastic tool, like a guitar pick or a plastic opening tool designed for electronics. These tools are less likely to scratch the key fob casing. The most important item is the CR2032 battery. This is the standard battery size for most key fobs, including the one for your 2017 Subaru Impreza. You can find these batteries at most drugstores, supermarkets, and online retailers. When purchasing a new battery, make sure to check the expiration date to ensure it's fresh and will last a long time. It's also a good idea to buy a battery from a reputable brand to ensure quality and reliability. A soft cloth is another important tool to have on hand. Before you start working on your key fob, lay the cloth down on your work surface to protect the key fob from scratches. You can also use the cloth to gently wipe the key fob casing if it gets dirty during the battery replacement process. Having a clean workspace will make the job easier and help prevent any accidental damage to your key fob. Additionally, consider having a small container to hold the screws or any small parts that you remove from the key fob. This will prevent you from losing them and make it easier to reassemble the key fob later on. Organization is key when working on small electronic devices, so taking a few extra minutes to set up your workspace can save you time and frustration in the long run. With these tools in hand, you'll be well-prepared to tackle the key fob battery replacement and get your 2017 Subaru Impreza key fob working like new again.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let's get down to business! Follow these steps, and you'll have your new battery in place in no time. First, locate the small notch on the side of your key fob. Use your flathead screwdriver to gently pry the fob open. Be careful not to apply too much force, as you could damage the plastic. Once the fob is open, you'll see the battery. Take note of which way the battery is facing before removing it. Use your screwdriver to gently push the battery out of its housing. Now, grab your new CR2032 battery and insert it into the housing, making sure the positive (+) side is facing the correct way. Align the two halves of the key fob and press them together until they snap shut. That's it! You've successfully replaced your key fob battery. Let's break down each step in more detail to ensure you get it right. The first step is locating the small notch on the side of your key fob. This notch is usually located near the key ring attachment. Take a close look at your key fob, and you should be able to spot it easily. Once you've found the notch, insert the tip of your small flathead screwdriver into it. Apply gentle pressure to start prying the fob open. Be patient and work slowly, as the plastic can be brittle and may crack if you apply too much force. If you're having trouble opening the fob, try wiggling the screwdriver slightly to create a gap between the two halves. Once you've created a small opening, you can insert the screwdriver further and continue prying until the fob is completely open. With the key fob open, you'll see the battery and the internal components of the fob. Take a moment to examine the battery and note which way it is facing. Usually, the positive (+) side is facing up, but it's always a good idea to double-check before removing the old battery. This will ensure that you insert the new battery correctly. Next, use your screwdriver to gently push the battery out of its housing. Be careful not to damage the battery contacts or any other components inside the key fob. You can use the screwdriver to gently pry the battery from the side or bottom, depending on the design of the key fob. Once the battery is loose, you can remove it with your fingers. Now, take your new CR2032 battery and insert it into the housing, making sure the positive (+) side is facing the correct way. The battery should snap into place easily. If it doesn't, double-check that you have the correct orientation and that the battery is fully seated in the housing. Finally, align the two halves of the key fob and press them together until they snap shut. Make sure all the edges are aligned properly and that the fob is securely closed. If the fob doesn't snap shut easily, check for any obstructions or misaligned components. Once the fob is closed, test it to make sure it's working properly. Press the buttons to lock and unlock your car, and make sure the key fob is communicating with your vehicle. If everything is working as it should, congratulations! You've successfully replaced your key fob battery.

Troubleshooting

Okay, so what if things don't go exactly as planned? Don't sweat it! Here are a few common issues you might run into and how to solve them. If your key fob still isn't working after replacing the battery, double-check that the battery is installed correctly and that the positive (+) side is facing the right direction. Also, make sure the battery contacts are clean and making good contact with the battery. If your key fob casing is damaged or broken, you may need to purchase a replacement key fob. These can be found online or at your local Subaru dealership. If you're having trouble opening the key fob, try using a different tool or applying a bit more pressure. Just be careful not to damage the plastic casing. Sometimes, the key fob may need to be reprogrammed after replacing the battery. This is usually a simple process that can be done at the dealership or by a qualified locksmith. Let's dive deeper into each of these troubleshooting tips to help you resolve any issues you might encounter. First, if your key fob still isn't working after replacing the battery, the most common cause is an incorrectly installed battery. Double-check that the battery is installed correctly and that the positive (+) side is facing the right direction. The positive side is usually marked with a (+) symbol on the battery itself and on the inside of the key fob casing. Make sure the battery is fully seated in the housing and that it's making good contact with the battery contacts. If the battery contacts are dirty or corroded, they may not be making a good connection with the battery. Use a cotton swab and some rubbing alcohol to gently clean the battery contacts. This will remove any dirt or corrosion and ensure a better connection. If your key fob casing is damaged or broken, it may be preventing the key fob from working properly. Cracks or breaks in the casing can interfere with the internal components of the key fob and prevent it from communicating with your car. In this case, you may need to purchase a replacement key fob. You can find replacement key fobs online or at your local Subaru dealership. Make sure to purchase a key fob that is compatible with your 2017 Subaru Impreza. If you're having trouble opening the key fob, it may be because the plastic casing is stuck or the notch is difficult to access. Try using a different tool, such as a plastic opening tool or a guitar pick, to pry the fob open. These tools are less likely to damage the plastic casing. You can also try applying a bit more pressure, but be careful not to overdo it, as you could crack the casing. If the key fob still won't open, try warming it up with a hair dryer for a few minutes. The heat may help to soften the plastic and make it easier to open. In some cases, the key fob may need to be reprogrammed after replacing the battery. This is because the key fob's memory may be erased when the battery is removed. If your key fob isn't working after replacing the battery and you've tried all the other troubleshooting tips, it's likely that it needs to be reprogrammed. You can take your key fob to a Subaru dealership or a qualified locksmith to have it reprogrammed. They will use a special tool to reset the key fob's memory and pair it with your car. Reprogramming usually takes only a few minutes and is a relatively inexpensive process. By following these troubleshooting tips, you should be able to resolve most issues you encounter when replacing your 2017 Subaru Impreza key fob battery. If you're still having trouble, don't hesitate to seek professional help.

Extra Tips and Tricks

To keep your key fob in tip-top shape, avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or moisture. Also, consider buying a key fob protector to prevent damage from drops and scratches. Keep a spare battery on hand so you're never caught off guard. Here are some additional tips and tricks to help you maintain your key fob and ensure it lasts as long as possible. First, avoid exposing your key fob to extreme temperatures. Excessive heat or cold can damage the battery and the internal components of the key fob. Don't leave your key fob in direct sunlight or in a hot car for extended periods. Similarly, avoid exposing it to extreme cold, such as leaving it in a freezing car overnight. These conditions can shorten the lifespan of the battery and cause the key fob to malfunction. Moisture is another enemy of key fobs. Avoid getting your key fob wet, as water can damage the internal components and cause corrosion. If your key fob does get wet, dry it off immediately with a soft cloth and remove the battery to prevent further damage. You can also use a desiccant, such as silica gel packets, to absorb any remaining moisture. Consider buying a key fob protector to prevent damage from drops and scratches. A key fob protector is a small case that fits around your key fob and protects it from impacts and abrasions. These protectors are available in a variety of materials, such as silicone, plastic, and leather. They can help to extend the lifespan of your key fob and keep it looking new. Keep a spare battery on hand so you're never caught off guard. Key fob batteries can die unexpectedly, leaving you stranded without a way to unlock or start your car. To avoid this situation, keep a spare CR2032 battery in your glove compartment or your purse. That way, you'll always be prepared in case your key fob battery dies. Another tip is to clean your key fob regularly. Over time, dirt, dust, and grime can accumulate on the key fob and interfere with its functionality. Use a soft cloth and some mild soap and water to clean the key fob. Be careful not to get any liquid inside the key fob, as this could damage the internal components. You can also use a cotton swab to clean the buttons and crevices on the key fob. Finally, consider having your key fob professionally serviced every few years. A qualified technician can inspect the key fob for any signs of wear and tear and replace any worn or damaged components. This can help to prevent problems down the road and ensure that your key fob continues to function properly. By following these extra tips and tricks, you can keep your key fob in tip-top shape and ensure it lasts for many years to come.

Conclusion

So, there you have it! Replacing your 2017 Subaru Impreza key fob battery is a breeze. With the right tools and a little know-how, you can save yourself time and money. Keep these tips in mind, and you'll never be caught off guard by a dead key fob again! Remember, a little maintenance goes a long way in keeping your Subaru Impreza running smoothly. By taking the time to replace your key fob battery and care for your key fob, you can avoid potential headaches and ensure that your car is always ready to go when you are. So, grab your screwdriver, a new CR2032 battery, and get to work! You'll be amazed at how easy it is to keep your key fob in top condition. And don't forget, if you ever run into any problems, there are plenty of resources available to help you out. Whether it's online tutorials, your local Subaru dealership, or a qualified locksmith, there's always someone who can lend a hand. So, go ahead and tackle that key fob battery replacement with confidence, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing you've taken care of a simple but important maintenance task. After all, a well-maintained key fob is a happy key fob, and a happy key fob means a happy driver! Keep these tips in mind, and you'll be well on your way to enjoying years of trouble-free operation from your 2017 Subaru Impreza key fob. Happy driving!