2019–2024 SK (5th generation)
2019–2024 Subaru Forester Key Fob Battery Type and Replacement
The 2019–2024 Subaru Forester key fob takes a CR2032 (push-button-start smart key, standard across this generation) coin cell. How to open the fob without breaking it, and which substitutions actually work.
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Quick answer
The 2019–2024 Subaru Forester key fob takes a CR2032 (push-button-start smart key, standard across this generation) coin-cell battery, available at any pharmacy, hardware store, or online for a few dollars.
Replacing the 2019–2024 Subaru Forester key fob battery
- Pry the fob open gently at the seam with a small flathead screwdriver or a coin, working around the edge. Many fobs have a hidden release slot near the key ring or emergency-key blade.
- Note the battery orientation (usually positive side up) before removing the old cell.
- Avoid touching the new battery's faces with bare fingers; skin oils can shorten its life.
- If the fob doesn't work after replacement, check that the battery is seated fully and the contacts weren't bent. Most vehicles do not need re-pairing after a battery change.
Which Subaru Forester model years does this cover?
These key fob battery specifications apply to every Subaru Forester built from 2019 through 2024 — the SK (5th generation), compact crossover suv (subaru global platform). 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 2019–2024 Subaru Forester
- 2019Generation launch on the Subaru Global Platform; direct-injected FB25D replaces the port-injected FB25; no turbo XT offered in the US; EyeSight standard
- 2022Wilderness trim introduced with raised suspension, all-terrain tires, and additional underbody protection
- 2024Final model year of this generation before the SL redesign
2019–2024 Subaru Forester key fob battery: common questions
What battery does the 2019–2024 Subaru Forester key fob take?
- A single CR2032 (push-button-start smart key, standard across this generation) coin cell.
Can you use a CR2032 instead of a CR2025 in a 2019–2024 Subaru Forester key fob?
- This fob takes a CR2032 (push-button-start smart key, standard across this generation), 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 2019–2024 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.
Sources
- Wikipedia, Subaru Forester generations (SK)
- AMSOIL lookup, 2020 Forester 2.5L FB25D oil spec/capacity
- subaruforester.org, FB25DI correct oil level / capacity discussion (4.4 qt per owner's manual)
- Subaru Service Bulletin 09-119-24, Thermo Control Valve Warranty Extension (2019-21MY Forester)
- Reddit r/SubaruForester, Subaru now covering TCV issues for 2019+ models
- classaction.org, Subaru windshield settlement given preliminary approval
- classaction.org, Subaru lawsuit: 2019–2025 vehicles, parasitic battery drain (Taylor v. Subaru)
- Reddit r/subaru, 2019–2020 CVT warranty extension to 10 yr/100k thread
- Reddit r/subaru, 2019 Forester front brake rotor sizes (294/316mm front, 285mm rear)
- tirecalculatorhub.com, Subaru Forester OEM tire size guide by year
- wiperhaus.com, 2024 Subaru Forester windshield wiper blade size