2010–2014 BR (4th generation)
2010–2014 Subaru Outback Key Fob Battery Type and Replacement
The 2010–2014 Subaru Outback key fob takes a CR1620 (exposed-blade flip key with integrated remote) coin cell. How to open the fob without breaking it, and which substitutions actually work.
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Quick answer
The 2010–2014 Subaru Outback key fob takes a CR1620 (exposed-blade flip key with integrated remote) coin-cell battery, available at any pharmacy, hardware store, or online for a few dollars.
Replacing the 2010–2014 Subaru Outback 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 Outback model years does this cover?
These key fob battery specifications apply to every Subaru Outback built from 2010 through 2014 — the BR (4th generation), mid-size wagon/crossover. 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 2010–2014 Subaru Outback
- 2010–2012Generation launch; pre-facelift styling, slightly taller ride height than later years
- 2011Minor changes following the 2010 redesign: XM satellite radio becomes standard and the power liftgate feature expands to more trims
- 2012Premium trim gains a new standard six-speaker stereo along with standard Bluetooth and USB connectivity
- 2013–2014Minor facelift: revised front/rear fascias, updated infotainment options; mechanical specs carry over
2010–2014 Subaru Outback key fob battery: common questions
What battery does the 2010–2014 Subaru Outback 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 2010–2014 Subaru Outback 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 2010–2014 Subaru Outback 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 Outback generations (BR)
- AMSOIL lookup, 2013 Outback 2.5L FB25 oil spec/capacity
- Subaru Outback Forums, real oil capacity of EZ36 in 3.6R
- Subaru Outback Forums, CVT in the 3.6 (5AT vs CVT by year)
- NHTSA, 2013V194000 steering column recall bulletin (WQI-45)
- NHTSA, 18V626 electronic parking brake actuator recall (WTV-81)
- Class Law Group, Subaru oil consumption class action settlement summary
- Subaru Outback Forums, 2011 Premium tire size (225/60R17)
- Conley Subaru, Outback lug nut torque by model year
- samarins.com, 2010–2014 Subaru Outback common problems