2012–2013 Subaru Forester Key Fob Battery Type and Replacement

Which Subaru Forester model years does this cover?

These key fob battery specifications apply to every Subaru Forester built from 2012 through 2013 — the SH (3rd generation), compact crossover suv. Nothing in this specification changes between those model years. Pick your year for the engines it offered, what changed that year, and the problems recorded against it.

What changed during the 2012–2013 Subaru Forester

• 20122.5X Touring trim added above 2.5X Limited with HID headlights, a rearview camera, dual-zone automatic climate control, and silver roof rails; 2.5XT models gain a larger rear spoiler
• 2012–2013Facelift years of the SH generation; non-turbo trims run the newer FB25 while the 2.5XT retains the EJ25 turbo through the end of production in 2013
• 2013Minor changes only: Sky Blue dropped from the exterior color palette, replaced by Marine Blue and Deep Cherry Pearl

What battery does the 2012–2013 Subaru Forester key fob take?

A single CR1620 (exposed-blade flip key with integrated remote) coin cell.

Can you use a CR2032 instead of a CR2025 in a 2012–2013 Subaru Forester key fob?

This fob takes a CR1620 (exposed-blade flip key with integrated remote), so start there. The two cells share a 20 mm diameter but differ in thickness, and the thicker one does not always seat in a housing built for the thinner.

How do you open a 2012–2013 Subaru Forester key fob?

Slide out the mechanical emergency key first, which usually releases a catch, then part the halves with a plastic pry tool or a coin wrapped in tape. A screwdriver will mark the case and can crack the seam.