Where to get a Subaru replacement key fob
You have three main places to get a replacement key fob for your Subaru: a Subaru dealership, a locksmith who works with car keys, or an online retailer that sells aftermarket fobs. Each route differs in cost, how long it takes, and whether the fob will work with your specific model year.
A Subaru dealership will program the fob to your car on the spot, which means you leave with a working key the same day in most cases. Locksmiths typically cost less than dealerships and can often program fobs while you wait, though not all locksmiths stock Subaru fobs in inventory. Online retailers sell fobs at the lowest price but require you to either program the fob yourself or pay a locksmith or dealership to do it after it arrives.
The dealership is the most straightforward route if you want certainty that the fob will work, but it is also the most expensive. If cost matters more than speed, a locksmith is usually the middle ground. Online buying makes sense only if you are comfortable with an extra step or two.
Key Takeaways
- Subaru dealerships program fobs while you wait but charge the most; locksmiths are cheaper and faster than dealerships for many people.
- You will need your vehicle identification number (VIN) and proof of ownership to get a fob from a dealership.
- Aftermarket fobs from online retailers cost less upfront but require programming, which adds time and may cost extra.
- Programming a fob yourself is possible on some Subaru models using a sequence of key turns and button presses, though results vary by year.
What information you need before you start
Before you contact a dealership or locksmith, gather your vehicle identification number (VIN), which appears on your registration, insurance card, or the dashboard near the windshield. You will also need proof that you own the vehicle, such as your registration or title. A dealership will ask for both; a locksmith may ask for just the VIN and a photo of your registration.
Know your Subaru model year, because the fob design and programming method differ between years. If you are not sure of your year, the VIN will tell the dealership or locksmith what you have. Having this information ready before you call or visit saves time and lets you get an accurate price quote.
Dealership pricing and what it includes
Subaru dealership prices for a replacement key fob vary by location and model year. A new fob typically costs between $200 and $400 when you include programming. Some dealerships charge the fob cost and programming as separate line items; others bundle them. Call your local Subaru dealership and give them your model year to get an exact quote for your car.
The dealership will cut and program the fob to match your vehicle's security system. If you have lost both fobs, the dealership may charge you more or require additional verification of ownership. The fob is usually ready the same day, though some dealerships may need to order it if they do not have your model in stock.
Dealership fobs come with a warranty, typically covering defects for one year. If the fob stops working within that period, the dealership will replace it at no charge.
Using a locksmith for faster and cheaper service
A locksmith who specializes in automotive keys can often provide a replacement fob for $100 to $250, depending on your model year and whether they have the fob in stock. Many locksmiths can program the fob while you wait, meaning you drive away with a working key in under an hour. Call ahead to confirm they stock fobs for your Subaru model year before you visit.
Not all locksmiths carry every Subaru fob model, so you may need to call several to find one who has yours. Some locksmiths will order a fob and call you when it arrives, then program it when you come in. Ask whether they charge for programming separately or if it is included in the fob price.
Locksmiths do not always offer a warranty on aftermarket fobs, so ask what happens if the fob fails after you leave. Some will may provide it for 30 days; others will not. This is worth asking about before you pay, since a failed fob means another trip and another cost.
Buying a fob online and programming it yourself
Online retailers sell Subaru fobs for $50 to $150, often significantly less than dealerships or locksmiths. The catch is that you receive an unprogrammed fob that will not work with your car until it is programmed. You can either program it yourself using a method that works on many Subaru models, or pay a dealership or locksmith to program it for you.
Self-programming on many Subaru models involves a sequence of turning the key in the ignition and pressing buttons on the fob. The exact steps vary by model year, so search your specific year and model online before you order. Some newer Subaru models cannot be self-programmed and require a dealership or locksmith with specialized equipment.
If self-programming does not work or is not possible for your model, you will need to take the fob to a dealership or locksmith for programming, which adds $50 to $150 to your total cost. This means the online fob may end up costing as much as buying from a locksmith, but with more hassle and waiting time.
How to program a Subaru key fob yourself
Many Subaru models from 2005 onward can be programmed using a manual sequence. Sit in the driver's seat with all doors closed, insert your existing key into the ignition, and turn it to the "On" position without starting the engine. Turn it back to "Off," then repeat this cycle four more times, ending in the "Off" position. The doors will lock and unlock to signal that the car has entered programming mode.
Once the car is in programming mode, press any button on your new fob for one second, then release. The doors will lock and unlock again. Repeat this for each button you want to program. When you are done, turn the key to "On" to exit programming mode. The doors will lock and unlock once more to confirm.
This method does not work on all Subaru models, particularly newer ones with push-button start. If your car has a push-button start, you will need to take the fob to a dealership or locksmith. If the self-programming steps do not work after you try them, stop and contact a professional rather than continuing to try different sequences, which can lock the car out of programming mode temporarily.
What to do if you have lost both fobs
If you have lost both key fobs, you will need to go to a Subaru dealership. The dealership will require proof of ownership and will reprogram your vehicle's security system to accept new fobs. This process is more involved than replacing a single lost fob and typically costs more, often $300 to $500 or higher depending on your model year.
A locksmith cannot reprogram your vehicle's security system the way a dealership can, so this is one situation where the dealership is your only option. Bring your registration, title, or other proof of ownership, and be prepared to wait longer than you would for a single fob replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a fob from a different Subaru model on my car?
No. Fobs are programmed to match your specific vehicle's security system. A fob from a different model or year will not work on your Subaru, even if it looks similar. You need a fob designed for your model year.
How long does it take to get a replacement fob?
A dealership or locksmith can program a fob while you wait, usually within an hour. If they need to order the fob, it may take a few days to a week. Online fobs take three to seven days to arrive, plus additional time if you need programming afterward.
Will my spare fob still work if I get a new one?
Yes. Adding a new fob does not erase your existing fobs. If you have a spare, it will continue to work after you program a replacement. You can program multiple fobs to the same car.
What if my fob works sometimes but not always?
A fob that works intermittently usually has a dead battery. Replace the battery first, which costs a few dollars and takes five minutes. If a new battery does not fix it, the fob may have internal damage and needs replacement.
Is there a way to avoid paying for a replacement fob?
If your fob is still under warranty from the dealership, contact them about a replacement at no charge. Otherwise, you will need to pay for a new fob. Keeping a spare fob in a safe place is the best way to avoid this cost in the future.